A visual technique that helps a child and a family talk about themselves through the metaphor of houses: "The house I live in", "The house of my dreams", "The house of my worries". Not a verbal conversation but a creative process — the child can draw and speak at the same time, which reveals the inner world beyond pat answers.
Step-by-step guide
- Draw three houses (schematically)
- "In this house I live now" — the child draws/describes
- "In this house are my dreams" — what they want
- "In this house are my worries/fears" — what worries them
- Listen and ask: "What do you need to get from house 1 to house 2?"
When to use
- Working with children (especially 5–12 years old)
- With complex family histories
- When verbal conversation is difficult or limited by age
Key phrases
In this house I live now — draw or tell what is there
In this house are my dreams — what would you like?
In this house are my fears — what worries you?
What do you need to get from house 1 to house 2?
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not interpret the drawing — the child is the author
- ⚠️ Do not push for the "right" content — what is in the house is what is in the house
Source: Sheratan, the development of SFBT for children
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.