The prospective technique, previewing, may be used for communicating metaphors about future change to individuals regardless of developmental level. Previewing provides knowledge about development & stimulates the cognitive skills necessary for viewing the present as a metaphor for the future. The case of a 37-year-old father, his 12-year-old daughter & 4-year-old son, referred for therapy after their wife/mother died of an overdose of drugs & alcohol, is used as illustration. (73 refs.)