Eidetic Systems Therapy: How to Use Somatic Imaging for Effective Treatment

Eidetic Systems Therapy is a therapeutic model based on the principles of Eidetic imagery developed by Akhter Ahsen, PhD. The book presents the history and philosophical roots of Eidetic Imaging, defines an Eidetic Image, and outlines its key concepts and principles, as well as the therapeutic process and applications to health, well-being, growth, Motivation, and Trauma.

Ahsen’s ISM model describes the structure of the Eidetic image, in which an Image (I) shows what is going on in the mind, the Somatic Response (S) identifies the feeling experienced by seeing the image, and the Meaning (M) shows an understanding resulting from seeing and feeling.

The characteristics of an Eidetic image are discussed, along with its differences from memories, fantasies, and guided images.

The neurobiology of an image is presented in terms of sensory input, brain response, and the creation of neurotransmitters and
electrochemical messengers that activate the body and produce an experiential response.

The therapeutic process is described with tests and their analysis, and an image analysis process to thoroughly understand symptom development and resolution through the Eidetic process.

Several applications of Eidetic Systems Therapy are briefly explored.

Trauma:
The Eidetic Parents Test is a series of 30 images designed to reveal developmental trauma and problems in attachment.

The Age Projection Test is used for complex trauma when trauma symptoms are present, but the exact cause is not known.

The Accident Trauma model is used when the source of a trauma is clearly known, but symptoms persist long after the event, as in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Motivation:
This model focuses on desire as the source of human activity rather than behavioral reinforcement or reward.