Narrative therapy is a respectful, collaborative and non-blaming approach to counselling that encourages you to embrace the idea of being the expert in your own life

Narrative therapy is a respectful, collaborative and non-blaming approach to counselling that encourages you to embrace the idea of being the expert in your own life. Narrative therapy celebrates that each of us has many skills, competencies, beliefs, values, commitments, abilities, and expertise that we can deploy to reduce the influence of problems in our lives. By separating problems from personal identity, narrative therapy emphasises the belief that individuals are the ultimate authorities in their own lives and can and do make positive changes. Narrative therapy aims not to change you but to assist you in transforming the effects of a problem on you.

What might Narrative Therapy look like in practice?

Narrative therapists use open, respectful, and collaborative conversations to facilitate the co-discovery of your more hopeful, preferred, and previously unrecognised and hidden stories.  

Using curiosity to gently challenge narratives that contribute to your struggles.

Identifying themes, objectifying problems and framing them within a larger sociocultural context allows for a broader perception and self-compassion, lowers resistance and defensiveness, and allows for more productive approaches to problem-solving.

Through collaboration, you gain a deep understanding of your values and skills, allowing you to address present and future issues effectively.

Creating a space between you and the issue, exploring how a specific concern might serve you rather than harm you, and making room for other life narratives or personal stories.

Narrative therapy facilitates transformative change by utilising the skills we have but possibly are not harnessing.

What issues can Narrative Therapy address?

Research supports the use of narrative therapy for:

Anxiety

Relationship difficulties

Identity struggles

Attachment issues

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Depression

Eating disorders

Grief

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)