Narrative Therapy

Narrative therapy cultivates self-compassion, confidence, and courage in the face of life’s challenges.

While each session is unique to the individual and the therapist, narrative therapy has core beliefs about each person.

Narrative therapy IS:

• Respectful

• Non-blaming

• Affirming of the client as the expert of their story

Narrative therapy is NOT:

• Victim blaming
• Shaming
• Centered on the person as the problem

No matter what issues a client comes to therapy with, the core beliefs of narrative therapy suggest that their story is their own. Therefore, they are the best equipped to understand and react to their own story. 

A narrative-based therapist is not inclined to be judgmental, but rather listens and identifies the strengths in a client’s own story. 

Moreover, a narrative-based therapist attempts to cultivate a culture of respect in a client’s own personal worldview, so that he or she sees themselves as the capable person that they inherently are.

For a close up of narrative therapy in action, check out this video of Dr. Stephen Madigan as he describes the origins and realistic application of narrative therapy — particularly with children. 

In this clip, Dr. Madigan suggests that children may particularly benefit from narrative therapy by being given an outlet to express their story without having an adult structure their own story. 

Instead, they can see their own experience without having to hide it or feel that it is not their own. 

Most importantly, Dr. Madigan suggests that stories can be incredibly powerful, even to the point that “we speak ourselves into meaning”. 

As you give yourself permission to experience your story free of judgment, you allow yourself to see yourself through new eyes. 

This is why narrative therapy can be so influential.

Instead of suggesting that the person is the problem, we find that the problem is the problem.

The clients themselves have a well of meaning, empowerment, and ability that’s just waiting to be recognized. 

In narrative therapy, that well of strength is called out by the therapist. 

The goal is to use narrative therapy to find strength and resiliency within a client’s own network.

Instead of feeling out of control of their own life, a narrative-based therapist will assist the client in identifying areas where they can really make a difference.

“The problem is the problem, the person is not the problem.” ~Narrative Therapy Co-Founders, Michael White & David Epston

Narrative therapy seeks to identify the strengths and skills of the individual. In couples therapy, showcasing what each person is capable of may be influential in cultivating a harmonious relationship.

Each story is unique. Therefore, what you bring to the relationship matters, and is an essential part of growing together. 

Narrative therapy pulls from each person’s strengths to create a picture of how each person is an integral part of the relationship itself. 

Narrative couples therapy seeks to clarify the cause of the conflict.

More accurately, the cause is not necessarily the person, but the problem itself.

The issues being brought to the table may be difficult to work through. However, that does not mean that the person involved is difficult.

Rather, narrative therapy uses each person's unique experience to develop a game plan for conflict resolution.

Incorporating skills and strengths from both parties, the couple is better prepared to make decisions that benefit the resolution of conflict and the relationship as a whole. 

You are not the problem in your relationship and neither is your partner. 

Viewing problems from a different lens can help both partners work together to solve problems in a more compassionate way. 

A common fear in narrative therapy is the feeling that one’s own story is devoid of strengths. Perhaps you feel that you are to blame for the problems in your life. 

Or you might feel powerless to combat the stressors and challenges of life. 

Past experiences may have even played a role in a lacking sense of self-confidence. 

Never fear.

Even if you feel stuck and doubt that you have the skills or resiliency to change your situation, problems, or situations, don’t let that keep you from trying narrative therapy. 

Clients who feel there is nothing truly special, unique, or powerful about their own story are exactly the kind of clients who are likely to benefit from narrative therapy. 

Sometimes it's hard to see the way out when you're stuck in the middle. Your therapist can provide you with a different perspective. 

So be brave!

Give yourself a hand and reach out for more information on narrative therapy today.