Waking the unconscious: An exploration into the incorporation of lucid dreaming within integrative counselling practice
International Journal of Dream Research 2026 DOI: 10.11588/ijodr.2026.1.112016 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Thematic analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 14 |
| Population | Existing studies on lucid dreaming |
| Topics | Dreaming Lucid dreaming |
| Key points | Lucid dreaming appears to have intrinsic therapeutic qualities and potential applicability as an intervention in therapeutic practice, while also posing risks that require serious consideration. The authors call for more in-depth research on safe integration and cross-cultural perspectives. |
Abstract
This study explores how lucid dreaming might inform Integrative Counselling Practice (ICP). A thematic analysis of 14 existing studies identified four key themes: Healing Mechanisms of Lucid Dreaming, Therapeutic Applications of Lucid Dreaming, Risks Associated with Lucid Dreaming, and Characteristics of the Lucid Dreaming State and Experience. Findings suggest that the lucid dreaming state appears to hold intrinsic therapeutic qualities, potential applicability as an intervention in therapeutic practice, whilst also requiring serious considerations of the potential risks involved. There is still much which remains unknown that requires more in-depth research. Further research is required to explore how therapists might safely incorporate lucid dreaming into their practice and to consider cross-cultural perspectives.
Comparable studies
Other qualitative studies on lucid dreaming, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-Level Control in Lucid Dreams Adults who experience at least one lucid dream per year | 2020 | Qualitative study | n = 107 |
| Dreamers as agents making strategizing efforts exemplify core aggregate of executive function in non-lucid dreaming Archived cross-cultural dreams | 2012 | Qualitative study using grounded theory | |
| Lucid music – A pilot study exploring the experiences and potential of music-making in lucid dreams. Musicians who reported lucid dreams involving playing instruments and singing | 2018 | Qualitative study | n = 5 |
| Exploring the range of reported dream lucidity Participants who implemented mnemonic training lucid dream induction methods at home | 2021 | Observational study with qualitative component | |
| Methods of Exploring Transpersonal Lucid Dreams: Ineffability and Creative Consciousness | 2020 | Mixed methods (quantitative, phenomenological, art-based inquiry) |