What is the key focus of narrative therapy?

The key focus of narrative therapy is helping individuals re-author their life stories. This therapeutic approach emphasizes the significance of personal narratives in shaping one's identity and experiences. In narrative therapy, the therapist collaborates with clients to explore the stories they tell about themselves and their lives, encouraging them to view their experiences from new perspectives. This process often involves identifying dominant narratives that may be oppressive or limiting and helping clients to construct alternative stories that reflect their values, strengths, and aspirations.

Through re-authoring these narratives, individuals can gain insight into their thoughts and behaviors, fostering a greater sense of agency and empowerment in their lives. The emphasis is not on changing behaviors directly or relying on medication management, but rather on supporting clients to find meaning and purpose in their experiences and to create a narrative that aligns more closely with their desired self-concept and life goals. This approach can be particularly effective for those dealing with trauma, depression, or a sense of disconnection from their own life story.