One of the basic principals of Narrative therapy is to see people as the author of their life stories. The story unfolds in the counselling space, as the client narrates experiences. This narration is accomplished in collaboration with the counsellor (the listener), who through their interest, questions, and curiosity help to build the story with specific emphasis. A client may come into counselling with a story that is saturated with problems and concerns, and through the co-constructed narration with the counsellor, they unfold the story full of strength, resource, and creativity.
Narrative therapy seeks to be a respectful, non-blaming approach to counselling and community work, which centres people as the experts in their own lives. It views problems as separate from people and assumes people have many skills, competencies, beliefs, values, commitments and abilities that will assist them to reduce the influence of problems in their lives.
Alice Morgan’s What is narrative therapy? An easy-to-read introduction.
How narrative therapy can be used in the course of counselling?
Narrative therapy is a type of counselling that uses stories to explore an individual’s life and identity.
This approach to therapy focuses on how the individual’s life has been shaped by their environment, relationships, and experiences.
The goal of narrative therapy is to help the individual create a new understanding of themselves and their life, in order to open up new possibilities and pathways for growth. In the course of counselling, narrative therapy works to uncover the “stories” or narratives that the individual has formed throughout their life.
This can help the individual to gain a better understanding of who they are, where they are at, and how they can move forward. Through narrative therapy, the counsellor can help the individual to uncover patterns in behaviour and relationships, as well as find meaning in their life experiences.
Through this process, the counsellor can help the individual to create a better understanding of themselves and their identity, which can then lead to a more positive outlook and feeling of self–empowerment.
What is Narrative Therapy Recommended for?
Narrative therapy is recommended for a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and relationship problems.
It can be a helpful tool in helping people to make sense of their life stories and to reframe them in a way that can lead to more empowering and meaningful life outcomes.
It can also help people to develop a healthier sense of self, to develop a stronger sense of identity, and to gain greater control over their lives and the direction they wish to go.
