Narrative Therapy:

Narrative therapy is a therapeutic approach that emerged in the 1970s and 1980s, primarily through the work of Michael White and David Epston. It is rooted in the belief that humans are story-telling beings, and that our lives are shaped by the stories we construct about ourselves. These stories, or narratives, can be dominant and constraining, influencing our perceptions, emotions, and behaviours. Narrative therapy aims to help individuals re-author their lives by challenging these dominant narratives and creating new, more empowering stories.

At its core, narrative therapy is a postmodern approach, meaning it rejects the idea of absolute truths and universal explanations for human behaviour. Instead, it focuses on the subjective experiences and constructions of reality. It acknowledges that people are active participants in creating their lives, rather than passive victims of circumstances. Narrative therapists believe that language is a powerful tool for shaping reality, and that by changing the language we use to describe our lives, we can also change our experiences.

The origins of narrative therapy can be traced back to the social constructionist movement, which emphasizes the social and cultural contexts in which individuals develop their sense of self. This perspective challenges traditional views of mental health, which often pathologise individuals and focus on internal deficits. Narrative therapy, on the other hand, views problems as external to the person, rather than residing within them. This shift in focus allows individuals to take a more active role in addressing their challenges.

Narrative therapy is a powerful and innovative approach to therapy that empowers individuals to re-author their lives. By focusing on the stories we tell about ourselves, we can gain a deeper understanding of our experiences and develop new ways of being in the world. As a postmodern approach, narrative therapy respects the diversity of human experiences and avoids making assumptions about what is “normal” or “pathological.” By working collaboratively with clients to challenge dominant narratives and create new, more hopeful stories, narrative therapists help individuals to live more fulfilling and authentic lives.