1. Narrative Therapy

2. Major Influences
Michael White

3. 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

4. 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

5. Basic Principles Examination of alternatives to reconstruct narratives
Searching for unique outcomes (exceptions)
Use of therapeutic letters (summary, invitation, redundancy, exceptions, celebrations)