Narrative Therapy
Major Influences Michael White
Basic Principles Narrative metaphors * self-narratives or stories provide own personal reality * dictates perception of future reality The power of language Challenging dominant culture’s view as to what is truth
Basic Principles Re-examining personal stories or narratives (self-defeating) Societal repression can keep people from discovering true nature Collaborative approach * helping client/family construct and realize true dreams, visions, values, beliefs, spirituality, and commitments Use of externalizations * helping family to separate from the problem as an external entity
Basic Principles Examination of alternatives to reconstruct narratives Searching for unique outcomes (exceptions) Use of therapeutic letters (summary, invitation, redundancy, exceptions, celebrations)