What is narrative therapy?
Based on these understandings from postmodern theories, narrative therapy maintains “that people make meaning in their lives based on the stories they live” (Ricks et al., 2014, p. 100). In other words, the “first person narrative” through which a person defines themself is “based on memories of his or her past life, present life, roles in social and personal settings, and relationships with important others” and, furthermore, the “problems in people’s lives are derived from social, cultural, and political contexts” (p. 100). Much of the leading work on narrative therapy has been developed by workers associated with the Dulwich Centre in Adelaide, Australia. They have produced extensive work on the application of narrative ideas to a broad range of social services work and fields of practice (Healy, 2014, p. 218) which speaks to the far-reach and versatility of this intervention practice.
Narrative Therapy Tree of Life
- Roots (Where I come from): Discussion around influential people, place and experiences and culture.
- Ground: Present Life
- Trunk (sills and interests): Ask questions about the history of these. Enables stories to be told and special memories to be discussed.
- Branches (hopes, dreams and wishes): Ask questions about the history of these and how they link to people and experiences. Ask how these have been held onto during times of challenge.
- Fruit (Gift given to me): Why were you given this? What did the giver value about you?
- Leaves (Important people in my life): Why is/was this person important? Did you have lovely times with this person?
- Storms (Challenges): How did/do you respond? Are Storms in all lives? Do they last?