Theory Series: Narrative Therapy
Narrative Therapy (NT) is an approach directly influenced by the constructivist worldview. Constructivism is the view that truth is simply an agreement between two individuals. This exists in contract to positivism, which asserts that truth exists externally whether it is observed or not. Constructivism is one of the core tenets of the postmodern philosophical movement which was started in the 1970s by David Epston and Michael White. These ideas were utilized to aid clients in reinterpreting their challenges in a positive framework. It is often used along with other, more evidenced based practices, such as a CBT.
This approach can be particularly effective as it caters to the human predilection to consume and understand phenomena in the form of stories. The logic closely follows, then, that language is the tool we use to construct our realities as humans. This allows clients using NT to derive therapeutic value from reframe issues in a positive light. In NT, counselors are viewed as facilitators, making clients the expert on their issues and ultimately their reimagined solutions. This view starkly contrasts with the scientific point of view that is thriving in Western society.
NT is as unique as each individual entering counseling. To perform narrative reframing, clients often utilize their preferred expressive vehicle, such as some form of writing, speaking, or art. A rudimentary breakdown of NT will include:
Deconstruction Techniques - breaking the issue down into smaller, less overwhelming parts.
Reflexive Questioning - linking client’s actions with their respective beliefs on reality/what is true. This is often identified by client beliefs revolving around what they should or shouldn’t do.
Externalizing - approaching the issue at hand as an entity outside of the client. E.g., “I have alcoholism” vs. “I am an alcoholic.”
Re-authoring - reworking the client's existing narrative to reflect a healthier world/self-view.
NT is an extremely useful approach which often feels natural to clients. It has been shown to increase self-efficacy by making clients more aware of their positive qualities and strengths. It is also a great way to instill hope, as narratives often end future-facing, and the positive perspective is left up to the individual to create. NT clients report greater ability to self-reflect, be compassionate towards themselves, and confront painful experiences. It is extremely malleable and has been shown to be effective across all cultures. Critics of NT call it overly intellectual and point to the fact that it does not tethered people to any sort of shared, objective truth, making it ineffective to combat more severe mental illness.
Personally, I think aspects of NT show up regularly in any therapeutic relationship. Reframing - putting a positive spin on a negative or problematic situation - is a tool that almost every therapist will utilize at some point. I view NT as this process, extrapolated, making it an easily digestible approach. However, I would be wary of any counselor who does not ground this approach with one more objectively focused. The constructivist idea that truth is created simply by two or more individuals agreeing, is a recipe for chaos and narcissistic thinking, making it a dangerous idea if extended far enough.
For more on NT, I recommend What is narrative therapy? An easy-to-read introduction by Alice Morgan. This book focuses on… well… it’s really all in the name, is it not? Happy reading!
