Discover how Tan Doo cards open new conversations.
Stuck in the same argument? Try a picture, not to fix, but to see.
Words sometimes run out. Emotions go circular. When couples, families, or friends feel stuck, a simple image can open a whole new conversation. At the heart of our practice, Joyful Soul Psychology uses the gentle, evocative prompts of OH Cards to help people see what’s happening between them, not just inside them.
Why Tan Doo works
Projective and metaphor-based tools do something words alone can’t: they sidestep the brain’s automatic defenses so new meaning can emerge.
- Lowered defenses. Talking about an image feels less personal than pointing fingers, which creates safety and curiosity instead of shame and blame.
- Externalisation. We put the “problem” on the table as an object that we can move, examine, and change together.
- Narrative building. Picking and arranging images lets partners co-create a story of their relationship, a roadmap that turns confusing feelings into manageable steps.
Three simple activities to try …
Here are practical ways to bring the 44 image cards and 44 action cards into our relationship space.
- “Current Weather” check-in
Each person picks one image card that represents the relationship right now. Share one sentence about why we chose it. No rebuttals, just listening. This builds empathy fast. - Roadmap of Joy & Woe
Lay out three image cards for Past → Present → Future. Add an action card to bridge from Present to Future: what small step would change the trajectory? Use this to set one tiny, shared goal. - Conflict reframing
When a disagreement heats up, draw a random image card and ask: “How could this image suggest a solution we haven’t tried?” It nudges the brain from fight/flight into playful problem-solving.
a playful card deck that helps couples reconnect.
For Whom
Couples wanting to deepen connection, families eager to understand repeating patterns, friends rebuilding trust, and therapists looking for an accessible experiential tool. These cards aren’t a substitute for therapy, they’re a bridge into more honest, compassionate conversation.
Practical prompts & thinking questions
OH Cards and its series are highly flexible The suggested “Why it’s useful”, “Possible Use” and “Try this” activities are provided as illustrative examples to support exploration, and are not exhaustive. They do not limit how any deck of the OH Cards may be used. OH Cards users are encouraged to adapt, experiment (e.g. combine series, create their own prompts), and apply the cards in ways that best match their aims, cultural context, curiosity, and professional judgement.
Combining decks
Like all OH Card series decks, Tan Doo cards are designed to be used in conjunction with others. For example, placing an Tan Doo picture card inside an OH word card can lead to new combinations and insights or reflecting Tan Doo action cards with Personita cards. This modularity allows users to combine different themes, expanding the possibilities for storytelling, reflection, and therapy.
Start your journey
Relationships are a mix of woe and joy, and both can teach us. If you’re curious to explore these tools in a safe, guided space, our workshops and individual sessions at Joyful Soul Psychology offer a cozy place to begin. We work with multiple series and practice reflective prompts, pair exercises and micro-interventions. Email us jsp.wyeo@gmail.com or WhatsApp +65 8835 3015
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Check out how Tan Doo can work in teams.