Dr. Handler describes his approach as a combination of "relationship" and "implosive" therapy, or "supportive confrontation" therapy. In spirit, the method is quite similar to the child training dream practices of the Senoi (see Johnston's article on page 50), who actively teach their children to confront the monsters in their dreams. We wrote to Dr. Handler about his work. Here is part of what he wrote in reply:

"My approach with children is an experiential one, and my efforts stress the need for the therapist to experience the child's world as the child does, and then to respond as an 'enlightened' adult. Part of my approach was designed by my efforts to remember my own frightening night experiences as a child. I don't know if you have ever seen Bill Cosby's routine about his childhood fears when he went to bed, but it is a superb way for the therapist to begin to understand the feelings, thoughts and ideas of children as they differ from the typically more rational adult level."