How does Adlerian therapy view the purpose of dreaming?

In Adlerian therapy, dreaming is viewed as a significant avenue for gaining insights into an individual's personal aspirations, conflicts, and underlying motivations. This perspective embraces the idea that dreams are not simply random happenings or frivolous episodes but rather meaningful reflections that can reveal a person's innermost desires and unresolved issues. Dreams serve to highlight the challenges one faces in the waking world and provide a unique lens through which individuals can explore their thoughts about their lives, relationships, and goals. This emphasis on the interpretative nature of dreams aligns with the Adlerian focus on understanding the individual’s lifestyle and personal meaning, which is essential for personal growth and overcoming psychological barriers. By analyzing dreams, therapists can help clients uncover deeper truths about themselves, promoting self-awareness and encouraging the pursuit of their goals in a more conscious and directed manner.