Narrative therapy is a therapeutic approach that views individuals as the authors of their own stories. This perspective emphasizes that people are not defined by their problems, but rather by the way they relate to and interpret their experiences. The central premise of narrative therapy is that we can rewrite our stories, even the ones shaped by challenges, in ways that empower us to lead fulfilling lives.
In narrative therapy, the idea of the "story" is both a literal and symbolic concept. We all live our lives through the stories we tell ourselves and others. These stories shape our sense of identity, how we make sense of our past, and how we envision our future. However, many people live with dominant narratives that are limiting, shaped by external pressures like family expectations, societal norms, or personal traumas. These dominant narratives often serve to reinforce negative beliefs about oneself, leading to feelings of helplessness or disempowerment.
The approach of narrative therapy seeks to externalize the problem—viewing the problem as separate from the person. This allows clients to step back and reflect on their issues from a more objective standpoint. For example, someone struggling with anxiety may learn to see their anxiety as a separate entity rather than an intrinsic part of their identity. By doing so, the person can begin to engage with the problem in a healthier, more manageable way.