Narrative Therapy
What is Narrative Therapy?
Narrative Therapy was developed by Michael White and David Epston. This therapy separates the problem from the individual and encourages people to use their own strengths and resources to tackle the problem. This means externalizing the problem from the person in the form of narratives or stories. Personal experiences are turned into personal stories that assist in the navigation of life and helps shape who people are. Narrative Therapy uses these stories to discover purpose and change for the individual. The individual is not transformed in therapy, rather the therapy aims to transform the effects of the problem.
Common issues Narrative Therapy can treat
Narrative Therapy has been found to be an effective treatment for:
How can Narrative Therapy help me?
Narrative Therapy can help by the therapist being witness to your personal story, objectify and view problems within the context of social, political and cultural storylines and to make room for new stories that align with personal goals to transform the problem. Your therapist will help by exploring the impact of the problem and discover and identify what is most valuable to you beyond the problem helping to connect your actions and choices to better understand your life and gain inner resources to tackle future problems.
How quickly does Narrative Therapy work?
This therapy goes for as long the individual desires. It is most therapeutic to have consistent sessions to receive maximum benefit — weekly or bi-weekly is suggested. This therapy can be used with other therapies as well.
Psychologists who offer Narrative Therapy
Many of our therapists in Edmonton have received training in Narrative Therapy and can offer therapy based in this modality, such as:
If you’d like to book an appointment or learn more about Narrative Therapy, please contact us today.