Narrative Therapists in Dartmouth, NS

Photo of Jeannine Guenette, MSc, Psychologist
Jeannine Guenette
Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
I draw from Narrative, Acceptance & Commitment (ACT), and Existential Therapies, as well as body-focused and mindfulness-based strategies to tailor my approach to your needs.
Some of life's problems are difficult to solve alone. Maybe you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed and you know something needs to change, but you’re not sure what or how. Maybe you’re recognizing that you need focused support during a difficult time in your life. Or maybe you're ready to shift a recurring pattern that seems to get in the way of peace and fulfillment. Together, we can work to understand and address the difficulties you’re facing. I believe in your inherent capacity for growth and healing, and I am committed to offering a warm, authentic, and compassionate environment where you can feel heard, respected, and supported.
I draw from Narrative, Acceptance & Commitment (ACT), and Existential Therapies, as well as body-focused and mindfulness-based strategies to tailor my approach to your needs.
Some of life's problems are difficult to solve alone. Maybe you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed and you know something needs to change, but you’re not sure what or how. Maybe you’re recognizing that you need focused support during a difficult time in your life. Or maybe you're ready to shift a recurring pattern that seems to get in the way of peace and fulfillment. Together, we can work to understand and address the difficulties you’re facing. I believe in your inherent capacity for growth and healing, and I am committed to offering a warm, authentic, and compassionate environment where you can feel heard, respected, and supported.
(782) 222-6386 View (782) 222-6386
Photo of Melyssa Wood, MA, RCT, CCC, Counsellor
Melyssa Wood
Counsellor, MA, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3B
I am trained in mental health first aid and use an integrative approach, including narrative and solution-focused therapies.
I work with adults and older teens, including individuals and relationships, who feel overwhelmed with stress or anxiety, are lacking motivation, and perhaps even feel stuck and are not sure where to turn for support. Many of my clients have experienced anxiety, depression or issues in their relationships. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify the issues and areas that are keeping them stuck. Considering your unique needs and goals, we will create a plan to help you recover feelings of wellbeing and wholeness, and feel more fulfilled in your life.
I am trained in mental health first aid and use an integrative approach, including narrative and solution-focused therapies.
I work with adults and older teens, including individuals and relationships, who feel overwhelmed with stress or anxiety, are lacking motivation, and perhaps even feel stuck and are not sure where to turn for support. Many of my clients have experienced anxiety, depression or issues in their relationships. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify the issues and areas that are keeping them stuck. Considering your unique needs and goals, we will create a plan to help you recover feelings of wellbeing and wholeness, and feel more fulfilled in your life.
(782) 823-3156 View (782) 823-3156
Photo of Melodie Skeete, BSW , MSW , RSW, Registered Social Worker
Melodie Skeete
Registered Social Worker, BSW , MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
I draw from different models of therapy, including Emotion Focused, Narrative, Solution Focused, CBT, and ACT, to customize an approach that meets your needs.
Sometimes we are living at our best, in harmony with the highs and lows of life. Other times we are stressed, uncertain, overwhelmed and need help with the balance. Relationships are impacted, connections may be strained between family members, past experiences can affect the ability to live in the present moment. Major life transitions can be difficult, and feelings may seem too big to manage.
I draw from different models of therapy, including Emotion Focused, Narrative, Solution Focused, CBT, and ACT, to customize an approach that meets your needs.
Sometimes we are living at our best, in harmony with the highs and lows of life. Other times we are stressed, uncertain, overwhelmed and need help with the balance. Relationships are impacted, connections may be strained between family members, past experiences can affect the ability to live in the present moment. Major life transitions can be difficult, and feelings may seem too big to manage.
(782) 400-6401 View (782) 400-6401
Photo of Theressa Diane Govindsamy - Insight Wellness and Research Consulting,  MA,  RCT-C, CCC
Insight Wellness and Research Consulting
Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, MA, RCT-C, CCC
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B2W
My expertise lies in narrative therapy, a collaborative approach that helps reshape personal stories.
Are you someone who's looking for a supportive hand in managing stress, coping with life changes, and boosting your overall well-being? Maybe you're seeking a place where you can freely explore your emotions without fear of judgment, where you can develop strategies to handle things better and grow personally. I would love to connect with you.
My expertise lies in narrative therapy, a collaborative approach that helps reshape personal stories.
Are you someone who's looking for a supportive hand in managing stress, coping with life changes, and boosting your overall well-being? Maybe you're seeking a place where you can freely explore your emotions without fear of judgment, where you can develop strategies to handle things better and grow personally. I would love to connect with you.
(782) 820-4257 View (782) 820-4257
Photo of Colin Dale Gjesdal, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Colin Dale Gjesdal
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
I have training in mindfulness, EMDR, cognitive behavioural therapy, structured relapse prevention and narrative therapy.
I am a clinical social worker in Dartmouth NS with over ten years experience providing specialized treatment for individuals and family members affected by addictive behaviours such as substance abuse and gambling. My areas of interest include trauma, spirituality, grief and anxiety management.
I have training in mindfulness, EMDR, cognitive behavioural therapy, structured relapse prevention and narrative therapy.
I am a clinical social worker in Dartmouth NS with over ten years experience providing specialized treatment for individuals and family members affected by addictive behaviours such as substance abuse and gambling. My areas of interest include trauma, spirituality, grief and anxiety management.
(855) 284-8159 View (855) 284-8159
Photo of Jess Marshall, RCT-C, MA, Counsellor
Jess Marshall
Counsellor, RCT-C, MA
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B3A  (Online Only)
I may draw from attachment-based, psychodynamic, narrative, mindfulness based, and/or cognitive behavioural approaches.
Feeling disconnected? Perhaps you're struggling to exist in a society that doesn't feel like its accepting of you? I specialize in working with clients who often feel they diverge from societal norms. I have special interest in working with clients who may describe themselves as belonging to these groups: Neurodiverse, LGBTQIA+, Ethically Non-Monogamous, Kinky, and/or those involved in non-traditional family/relationship dynamics. If this is you, now that you are not alone! My experience may not be the same as yours, but through collaboration, we can work together to help find the best treatment methods for your unique situation.
I may draw from attachment-based, psychodynamic, narrative, mindfulness based, and/or cognitive behavioural approaches.
Feeling disconnected? Perhaps you're struggling to exist in a society that doesn't feel like its accepting of you? I specialize in working with clients who often feel they diverge from societal norms. I have special interest in working with clients who may describe themselves as belonging to these groups: Neurodiverse, LGBTQIA+, Ethically Non-Monogamous, Kinky, and/or those involved in non-traditional family/relationship dynamics. If this is you, now that you are not alone! My experience may not be the same as yours, but through collaboration, we can work together to help find the best treatment methods for your unique situation.
View
Photo of Lisa Dexter, RCT, CCC, Licensed Professional Counsellor
Lisa Dexter
Licensed Professional Counsellor, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3A
I draw from many theories such as EMDR, ACT, EFT, and narrative therapy.
My ideal clients range in age from adolescents through adulthood, including couples and families. They may have a past history of trauma or grief, or perhaps they are presently struggling with symptoms of ADHD, life changes, or a breakdown of a key relationship. They may be feeling completely overwhelmed and unsure where to go next. They will be open to trying new ideas to help them on the path to feeling better, but will not be worried about talking to me when certain strategies that do not work for them, as they will know it is best that we use techniques that they are comfortable with and will use.
I draw from many theories such as EMDR, ACT, EFT, and narrative therapy.
My ideal clients range in age from adolescents through adulthood, including couples and families. They may have a past history of trauma or grief, or perhaps they are presently struggling with symptoms of ADHD, life changes, or a breakdown of a key relationship. They may be feeling completely overwhelmed and unsure where to go next. They will be open to trying new ideas to help them on the path to feeling better, but will not be worried about talking to me when certain strategies that do not work for them, as they will know it is best that we use techniques that they are comfortable with and will use.
View
Photo of Brock Peter Caldwell, MEd, RCT, CCC, Counsellor
Brock Peter Caldwell
Counsellor, MEd, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
If you decide to connect with me for counselling I first focus on building a strong relationship with you to give us a foundation to work from. Whatever issues you are facing I am ready to partner with you to explore the history of the issue and work on making effective change happen. I use a Somatic approach which considers how your nervous system works, the effects of trauma / PTSD, and focuses on balancing the mind / body system. I also use a Narrative therapy approach considering identity and meaning making. Finally I incorporate Psychoanalytic theory and practice to consider life long human development.
If you decide to connect with me for counselling I first focus on building a strong relationship with you to give us a foundation to work from. Whatever issues you are facing I am ready to partner with you to explore the history of the issue and work on making effective change happen. I use a Somatic approach which considers how your nervous system works, the effects of trauma / PTSD, and focuses on balancing the mind / body system. I also use a Narrative therapy approach considering identity and meaning making. Finally I incorporate Psychoanalytic theory and practice to consider life long human development.
(902) 706-8425 View (902) 706-8425
Photo of Stacy Darku - Esinam Counselling Inc., MA, RCT, Counsellor
Esinam Counselling Inc.
Counsellor, MA, RCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3A
We can support you by using a variety of integrative therapeutic approaches including Narrative Therapy, trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy.
Have you ever felt that life is too overwhelming, and you do not know which direction to take? Do you feel that the ways you have coped with issues thus far have not been fully effective? Then, this is your time to take the next step towards your healing journey. We support individuals that are facing trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, struggling with addiction and undergoing life transitions. Our team is here to support you in your healing journey.
We can support you by using a variety of integrative therapeutic approaches including Narrative Therapy, trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy.
Have you ever felt that life is too overwhelming, and you do not know which direction to take? Do you feel that the ways you have coped with issues thus far have not been fully effective? Then, this is your time to take the next step towards your healing journey. We support individuals that are facing trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, struggling with addiction and undergoing life transitions. Our team is here to support you in your healing journey.
(782) 400-0442 View (782) 400-0442
Photo of Julia Smith, MEd, RCT, CCC, Counsellor
Julia Smith
Counsellor, MEd, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2V  (Online Only)
I utilize a range of evidence-based techniques, including solution-focused, narrative, and collaborative approaches.
Are you seeking relief from anxiety, stress, and depression? You’ve come to the right place! I help teenagers and adults who feel trapped by the challenges they face, find insight and direction in their lives. You deserve to live a life filled with purpose and joy, and I'm committed to helping you achieve that vision. Together, we can navigate obstacles and cultivate happiness in your life.
I utilize a range of evidence-based techniques, including solution-focused, narrative, and collaborative approaches.
Are you seeking relief from anxiety, stress, and depression? You’ve come to the right place! I help teenagers and adults who feel trapped by the challenges they face, find insight and direction in their lives. You deserve to live a life filled with purpose and joy, and I'm committed to helping you achieve that vision. Together, we can navigate obstacles and cultivate happiness in your life.
(902) 200-6517 View (902) 200-6517
Photo of Bryan Floyd Hagerman - The Therapist At Large Counselling, DMin, MEd, MA, MDiv, BEd, Counsellor
The Therapist At Large Counselling
Counsellor, DMin, MEd, MA, MDiv, BEd
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B3A
I practice Theories like; Cognitive Behavorial Therapy, Aspects of Gestalt Therapy, Narrative Therapy,.
I give Therapy to those suffering from Domestic Abuse, Depression, Anxiety, Anger issues, Abuse, Family Counselling, Children, Marriage issues, Conflict, Relational Issues. Various Disorders, Grief, Fear, Career Counselling.
I practice Theories like; Cognitive Behavorial Therapy, Aspects of Gestalt Therapy, Narrative Therapy,.
I give Therapy to those suffering from Domestic Abuse, Depression, Anxiety, Anger issues, Abuse, Family Counselling, Children, Marriage issues, Conflict, Relational Issues. Various Disorders, Grief, Fear, Career Counselling.
(902) 200-2451 View (902) 200-2451
Photo of Danielle Jakubiak, MA, MMus, MTA, RCT, CCC, Counsellor
Danielle Jakubiak
Counsellor, MA, MMus, MTA, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B2V
I am also particularly skilled and have training in Music Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Clinical Traumatology.
You may face sadness, worry, repetitive thoughts, following experiences that are tough to talk about, violence and trauma resulting in numbness, isolation. Maybe you want to dig deeper, to better understand these events and how they are impacting your life now. You may feel increasingly ready to move through and beyond the difficulties you face, to embrace what feels more like the real you. I am trained to work creatively with folks who are in the midst of life’s challenges, to help them process and cope with their emotions. I know how to work with trauma, survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, depression and anxiety.
I am also particularly skilled and have training in Music Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Clinical Traumatology.
You may face sadness, worry, repetitive thoughts, following experiences that are tough to talk about, violence and trauma resulting in numbness, isolation. Maybe you want to dig deeper, to better understand these events and how they are impacting your life now. You may feel increasingly ready to move through and beyond the difficulties you face, to embrace what feels more like the real you. I am trained to work creatively with folks who are in the midst of life’s challenges, to help them process and cope with their emotions. I know how to work with trauma, survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, depression and anxiety.
(902) 702-3680 View (902) 702-3680
Photo of Alex Wolf, MEd, RCT, CCC, Counsellor
Alex Wolf
Counsellor, MEd, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3A
Primarily, we incorporate Narrative Therapy, Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), Nature-Based Therapy, CBT and ACT.
I am a Registered Counselling Therapist and owner of Wolf Counselling Therapy. At Wolf Counselling Therapy, we work with people of all genders (ages 14+) and specialize in working with men and boys who are experiencing a range of mental health and life challenges including relationship issues, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, anger/emotion regulation, trauma, depression, and anxiety. We offer in-office, outdoor (e.g., during a hike, at a park bench), video, and phone-based therapy sessions.
Primarily, we incorporate Narrative Therapy, Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), Nature-Based Therapy, CBT and ACT.
I am a Registered Counselling Therapist and owner of Wolf Counselling Therapy. At Wolf Counselling Therapy, we work with people of all genders (ages 14+) and specialize in working with men and boys who are experiencing a range of mental health and life challenges including relationship issues, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, anger/emotion regulation, trauma, depression, and anxiety. We offer in-office, outdoor (e.g., during a hike, at a park bench), video, and phone-based therapy sessions.
(902) 903-2628 View (902) 903-2628
Photo of Jane Donovan, MEd, RCT, CCC, Licensed Professional Counsellor
Jane Donovan
Licensed Professional Counsellor, MEd, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2V  (Online Only)
By using narrative, solution focused, and art therapy, I’ll help you develop the life you want.
I help adults and couples who want to have healthy and supportive relationships but instead find themselves feeling misunderstood, unheard, and unhappy. My clients find that issues with romantic partners, family or friends, can be difficult and unfulfilling. They feel lonely and disconnected.
By using narrative, solution focused, and art therapy, I’ll help you develop the life you want.
I help adults and couples who want to have healthy and supportive relationships but instead find themselves feeling misunderstood, unheard, and unhappy. My clients find that issues with romantic partners, family or friends, can be difficult and unfulfilling. They feel lonely and disconnected.
(782) 312-0191 View (782) 312-0191
Photo of Rachel Lynn Derocher - Hope Grows Therapy - Rachel Derocher, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Hope Grows Therapy - Rachel Derocher
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2W
I am dedicated to understanding your struggles, strengths, passions, and goals, helping you to build your own preferred narrative.
I believe that everyone deserves a meaningful life that reflects their true self. However, I understand that various circumstances can make this difficult for many. As a registered clinical social worker, I assist adults, adolescents (10+), and families in understanding and navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, peer and family conflicts, trauma, low self-esteem, school avoidance/refusal, and major life transitions. Through therapy, we collaborate to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and pursue fulfilling lives aligned with your values and goals.
I am dedicated to understanding your struggles, strengths, passions, and goals, helping you to build your own preferred narrative.
I believe that everyone deserves a meaningful life that reflects their true self. However, I understand that various circumstances can make this difficult for many. As a registered clinical social worker, I assist adults, adolescents (10+), and families in understanding and navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, peer and family conflicts, trauma, low self-esteem, school avoidance/refusal, and major life transitions. Through therapy, we collaborate to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and pursue fulfilling lives aligned with your values and goals.
(782) 800-0917 View (782) 800-0917
Photo of Ruth Downie, BScN, MEdCoun, CHyp(tm), RCT, CCC, Counsellor
Ruth Downie
Counsellor, BScN, MEdCoun, CHyp(tm), RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2V
Waitlist for new clients
Using ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Narrative Therapy the client is invited to engage with their life in a meaningful and rewarding way.
My clients are generally people who are managing a chronic medical condition, are struggling with a life altering diagnosis, who may be finding a life transition challenging(menopause, retirement) and have feelings of anxiety or sadness as a result. I provide counselling to help make difficult decisions.
Using ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Narrative Therapy the client is invited to engage with their life in a meaningful and rewarding way.
My clients are generally people who are managing a chronic medical condition, are struggling with a life altering diagnosis, who may be finding a life transition challenging(menopause, retirement) and have feelings of anxiety or sadness as a result. I provide counselling to help make difficult decisions.
(902) 909-5655 View (902) 909-5655
Photo of Hallie Burt, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Hallie Burt
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
I use narrative and acceptance and commitment therapy and also draw on emotion-focused family therapy, DBT, and attachment theory.
The harsher the memory, the softer the poem. -pavana reddy. Have you experienced wounding in relationships and find yourself struggling to cope amidst conflict or the aftereffects of trauma or harm? Do you long to love and enjoy yourself and life again (or perhaps for the first time)? Harm can happen in many relationships, including romantic, familial, and with the social world around us. You might be facing triggers, anxiety, depression, feelings of hopelessness, or external barriers to well-being. My hope is to support you in feeling safer, overcoming harsh narratives about yourself, and living a life that feels right for you!
I use narrative and acceptance and commitment therapy and also draw on emotion-focused family therapy, DBT, and attachment theory.
The harsher the memory, the softer the poem. -pavana reddy. Have you experienced wounding in relationships and find yourself struggling to cope amidst conflict or the aftereffects of trauma or harm? Do you long to love and enjoy yourself and life again (or perhaps for the first time)? Harm can happen in many relationships, including romantic, familial, and with the social world around us. You might be facing triggers, anxiety, depression, feelings of hopelessness, or external barriers to well-being. My hope is to support you in feeling safer, overcoming harsh narratives about yourself, and living a life that feels right for you!
(782) 222-1945 View (782) 222-1945
Photo of Katie Noonan, Counsellor
Katie Noonan
Counsellor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3B
I draw from cognitive behavioral, solution focused, narrative, and emotionally focused approaches.
I am drawn towards working with adults who are experiencing challenges with emotions such as stress, anxiety, sadness, or anger, as well as those experiencing challenges with their interpersonal relationships and/or self-esteem. In my work with clients I guide them in gaining insights that can be used to improve their quality of life. I take a strength based approach as I believe that everyone is capable of facing challenges, solving problems, and improving relationships once they understand their experiences and have access to helpful resources.
I draw from cognitive behavioral, solution focused, narrative, and emotionally focused approaches.
I am drawn towards working with adults who are experiencing challenges with emotions such as stress, anxiety, sadness, or anger, as well as those experiencing challenges with their interpersonal relationships and/or self-esteem. In my work with clients I guide them in gaining insights that can be used to improve their quality of life. I take a strength based approach as I believe that everyone is capable of facing challenges, solving problems, and improving relationships once they understand their experiences and have access to helpful resources.
(782) 222-0553 View (782) 222-0553
Photo of Vanessa Eyre, MA, Counsellor
Vanessa Eyre
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2V
When relevant, we may use specific counselling techniques, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, psychoeducation, Narrative Therapy, Person Centred Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Accepting new clients for September 2024. My practice is rooted in the relationships that clients and I build together, creating spaces of trust and security; that’s where healing can start. I am passionate about providing trauma-informed mental health support that is accessible, rooted in compassion and aware of systemic barriers. I genuinely love working with people while witnessing them confront their challenges and grow as individuals; providing counselling gives me with an incredible sense of meaning and vitality.
When relevant, we may use specific counselling techniques, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, psychoeducation, Narrative Therapy, Person Centred Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Accepting new clients for September 2024. My practice is rooted in the relationships that clients and I build together, creating spaces of trust and security; that’s where healing can start. I am passionate about providing trauma-informed mental health support that is accessible, rooted in compassion and aware of systemic barriers. I genuinely love working with people while witnessing them confront their challenges and grow as individuals; providing counselling gives me with an incredible sense of meaning and vitality.
(902) 518-0745 View (902) 518-0745
Photo of Zarrin Ghaferi, MA, CCC, RCT, Counsellor
Zarrin Ghaferi
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCT
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B3A  (Online Only)
Are anxiety and stress controlling your life, limiting your daily activities, and causing you to have persistent anxious thoughts? I am here to help you and provide a safe space where together we focus on developing effective coping skills that can help you rise above depression, learn to control anxiety and stress, recover from trauma, and overcome perfectionism. Or have you moved to Canada and are you navigating the challenges of starting a new life in a new country? My experience as an immigrant has helped to support other newcomers who are experiencing stress and anxiety due to migration.
Are anxiety and stress controlling your life, limiting your daily activities, and causing you to have persistent anxious thoughts? I am here to help you and provide a safe space where together we focus on developing effective coping skills that can help you rise above depression, learn to control anxiety and stress, recover from trauma, and overcome perfectionism. Or have you moved to Canada and are you navigating the challenges of starting a new life in a new country? My experience as an immigrant has helped to support other newcomers who are experiencing stress and anxiety due to migration.
(782) 800-0972 View (782) 800-0972
1

See more therapy options for Dartmouth

Narrative Counsellors

Is narrative therapy evidence-based?

Narrative therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy. Some small studies do show that depressed and anxious individuals who were treated with narrative therapy reported improvement in anxiety and depression symptoms.

How long does narrative therapy last?

Narrative therapy is less structured when compared with psychoanalysis, for example. Narrative therapy is more open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a few months, and sometimes a year or longer. Patients see their therapist one to two times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a person’s challenges and progress. Individuals can also practice the principles of narrative therapy after treatment has ended.

Does narrative therapy work?

Narrative therapy can help a person manage or reduce symptoms of conditions like depression or anxiety. This type of therapy encourages a person to reflect on the moments of their life when their particular problem was not at the forefront of their minds — perhaps life celebrations, achievements, and other successes. The individual is encouraged to rewrite their storyline as if their particular problem was not part of their life. This therapy may offer benefits that are hard to measure.

What are the possible limitations of narrative therapy?

Narrative therapy is person-centered or client-centered, and the health professional pays more attention to the subjective narratives that are constructed by the client, as opposed to other objective measures. The therapist privileges the individual’s perspective over all others. This open form may feel frustrating for individuals seeking a more structured approach; certainly, no one therapy type will work for every individual.