The Hero’s Journey: A Mudmap for Change

Abstract

This article proposes that the Hero’s Journey provides a comprehensive mudmap for those either seeking or forced to change. Clients present to therapy when significant life problems occur. The Hero’s Journey is a detailed map of change with its three phases which inform the client of where they are in the change process, what to expect, and what is required of them to progress their story and resolve their life problem. The Hero’s Journey is emphatic in that addressing significant problems, personal change is a necessity. This article details Campbell’s three phases of the Hero’s Journey and identifies how a client can use this mudmap to navigate the trials and challenges of the change process. The Hero’s Journey informs clients that in addressing their significant life problem, new polar-opposite skills will be required. Such polar-opposite skills can only be learned through facing a series of increasingly more difficult trails. The Hero’s Journey also informs client-heroes that with trials, they will also experience rewards, such as increased connection and more their authentic self. As Campbell noted, the essential nature of the Hero’s Journey is the adventure of problem solving but only through personal transformation.