Narrative Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA
![Photo of Wesleigh McGivern, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/534e2ee1-b4e7-46b6-81ea-a0da21cf69a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I employ a cognitive behavioral (CBT) approach while utilizing narrative, psychodynamic, and solution focused therapy to help my clients reach their goals.
I work to establish a supportive and non-judgemental space for clients to focus on healing and connection. I work to emphasize collaboration while recognizing the client as the expert of their own experience. I support my clients with active listening, affirmation, validation, and honesty. We will work together to build upon existing attributes and coping mechanisms and I will work to encourage self-compassion while developing new skills for the present and future. This may include working on setting healthy boundaries, improving communication skills, and/or identifying negative self-talk.
I employ a cognitive behavioral (CBT) approach while utilizing narrative, psychodynamic, and solution focused therapy to help my clients reach their goals.
I work to establish a supportive and non-judgemental space for clients to focus on healing and connection. I work to emphasize collaboration while recognizing the client as the expert of their own experience. I support my clients with active listening, affirmation, validation, and honesty. We will work together to build upon existing attributes and coping mechanisms and I will work to encourage self-compassion while developing new skills for the present and future. This may include working on setting healthy boundaries, improving communication skills, and/or identifying negative self-talk.
![Photo of Chance Kolhmeyer, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae547da9-fe41-49d8-bcfe-2c5bc4820d23/1/320x400.png)
She utilizes a variety of techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities including narrative therapy, solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness.
Chance Kolhmeyer is a Resident in Counseling who specializes in working with adults. A large portion of Chance’s experience has consisted of working with the college population where she has gained an extensive understanding of life experiences, transitions, and disorders within this stage of life. She has a history of working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relational issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, self-esteem issues, adjustment disorders, day-to-day stress, and time management.
She utilizes a variety of techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities including narrative therapy, solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness.
Chance Kolhmeyer is a Resident in Counseling who specializes in working with adults. A large portion of Chance’s experience has consisted of working with the college population where she has gained an extensive understanding of life experiences, transitions, and disorders within this stage of life. She has a history of working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relational issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, self-esteem issues, adjustment disorders, day-to-day stress, and time management.
![Photo of Jenny Presto, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75c799ab-b02d-4e49-9cc8-63d8ae07d9d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently accepting new clients! I help people focus on their self-awareness, acceptance, and accountability. I assist them to identify the changes they want to make and positive ways to do so. I listen to a person’s story and how they let it define them. I help people rewrite their own narrative, discarding actions or feelings others have placed on them. I help people work through emotions surrounding their own behaviors, thoughts, and beliefs.
I am currently accepting new clients! I help people focus on their self-awareness, acceptance, and accountability. I assist them to identify the changes they want to make and positive ways to do so. I listen to a person’s story and how they let it define them. I help people rewrite their own narrative, discarding actions or feelings others have placed on them. I help people work through emotions surrounding their own behaviors, thoughts, and beliefs.
![Photo of Jose Guzman-Corrales, LAPC, ATR-P, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d9a81ed-2bf4-4ca5-84bf-710062880c51/1/320x400.png)
I also use narrative therapy techniques to empower individuals to tell their life story in their own words.
Seeking help requires courage and strength, and I applaud you for the steps you have already taken in your journey. The demands of life are vast, but I believe they can feel a little lighter with a supportive, affirming presence by your side. I am committed to providing a compassionate, accepting, collaborative, and empowering space for you. I firmly believe each person possess an incredible capacity for enhancing their well-being, and I am honored to accompany you on your journey of healing and personal growth.
I also use narrative therapy techniques to empower individuals to tell their life story in their own words.
Seeking help requires courage and strength, and I applaud you for the steps you have already taken in your journey. The demands of life are vast, but I believe they can feel a little lighter with a supportive, affirming presence by your side. I am committed to providing a compassionate, accepting, collaborative, and empowering space for you. I firmly believe each person possess an incredible capacity for enhancing their well-being, and I am honored to accompany you on your journey of healing and personal growth.
![Photo of Abby Schell, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d2b21f6-fb68-43c9-b4c9-99b3e7768417/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abby Schell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15239 (Online Only)
Some of my techniques are grounded in CBT, Narrative, and Humanistic Therapies.
I enjoy working with people who desire a deeper understanding of their thoughts and actions. I see clients with issues like depression, anxiety, social phobia or insomnia, who have a strong desire to improve their mental health and overall well-being. Their needs could include support, guidance, and coping strategies to manage their symptoms effectively. Their goals might involve achieving a better understanding of their emotions and behaviors, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and improving their quality of life. Ultimately, they want to feel happier, more fulfilled, and better equipped to navigate life's challenges.
Some of my techniques are grounded in CBT, Narrative, and Humanistic Therapies.
I enjoy working with people who desire a deeper understanding of their thoughts and actions. I see clients with issues like depression, anxiety, social phobia or insomnia, who have a strong desire to improve their mental health and overall well-being. Their needs could include support, guidance, and coping strategies to manage their symptoms effectively. Their goals might involve achieving a better understanding of their emotions and behaviors, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and improving their quality of life. Ultimately, they want to feel happier, more fulfilled, and better equipped to navigate life's challenges.
![Photo of Liz McBride, M Ed, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b05a2bb-0b9a-42c2-9aa6-5eb5fe4d0b08/1/320x400.jpeg)
Liz McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232 (Online Only)
My clinical approach is rooted in two orientations: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Art History from Saint Mary’s College in South Bend, Indiana, graduating in May of 2014. In the Fall of 2012, I received training as a victims’ advocate and crisis line operator at the Family Justice Center in South Bend. For the rest of my time as an undergraduate, I continued volunteering for the FJC, focusing on taking crisis calls, yet unaware of the skills I was building in attending to each caller’s concerns. I utilized my training again during grad school to volunteer for Crisis Text Line, where I honed my skills in crisis management and planning.
My clinical approach is rooted in two orientations: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Art History from Saint Mary’s College in South Bend, Indiana, graduating in May of 2014. In the Fall of 2012, I received training as a victims’ advocate and crisis line operator at the Family Justice Center in South Bend. For the rest of my time as an undergraduate, I continued volunteering for the FJC, focusing on taking crisis calls, yet unaware of the skills I was building in attending to each caller’s concerns. I utilized my training again during grad school to volunteer for Crisis Text Line, where I honed my skills in crisis management and planning.
![Photo of Charles Esposito - Wisdom Within Counseling, LLC, MDiv, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d494798-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wisdom Within Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I can integrate other orientations, such as cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, psychodynamic, narrative, and EMDR.
I have years of experience working with clients struggling with grief, trauma, and depression. I am a member of ASERVIC, with many years of experience and extensive graduate study in religion and spirituality and can integrate values connected with a client's preferred religions and spiritual emphases into all therapeutic approaches. Clients facing life-transitions have greatly benefited from this focussed approach to wellness at every stage of life. I work well with adults of all ages. Older adults have often especially appreciated my counseling orientation. I am also fluent in Spanish and Italian.
I can integrate other orientations, such as cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, psychodynamic, narrative, and EMDR.
I have years of experience working with clients struggling with grief, trauma, and depression. I am a member of ASERVIC, with many years of experience and extensive graduate study in religion and spirituality and can integrate values connected with a client's preferred religions and spiritual emphases into all therapeutic approaches. Clients facing life-transitions have greatly benefited from this focussed approach to wellness at every stage of life. I work well with adults of all ages. Older adults have often especially appreciated my counseling orientation. I am also fluent in Spanish and Italian.
![Photo of Destiny Dubal, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fb19be6-8527-4f3a-991e-1f1da1c1ff9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Being a human is a unique experience for us all and I look forward to helping you become who you want to be. My style of therapy focuses on you as a unique individual, your personal story, and how your mind body and spirit come together. I primarily utilize Person - Centered, Narrative, CBT , ACT and DBT in treatment. I use my own lived experiences to empathize and connect with clients to build the therapeutic relationship . I have experience working with Children and Adults of different backgrounds with various struggles including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and Trauma.
Being a human is a unique experience for us all and I look forward to helping you become who you want to be. My style of therapy focuses on you as a unique individual, your personal story, and how your mind body and spirit come together. I primarily utilize Person - Centered, Narrative, CBT , ACT and DBT in treatment. I use my own lived experiences to empathize and connect with clients to build the therapeutic relationship . I have experience working with Children and Adults of different backgrounds with various struggles including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and Trauma.
![Photo of Christine Nichols - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Pittsburgh, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97b33ca4-8bf8-4a52-97c3-1841702814c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
![Photo of Avory Billman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5550d4e8-90c0-4350-b79d-34c45a2f7340/2/320x400.jpeg)
Avory Billman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Waitlist for new clients
Through a neurodivergent affirming lens, I primarily use narrative and cognitive processing therapy to guide clients in telling their stories and processing past experiences.
My focus includes trauma-informed therapy with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals. I primarily work with adolescents and young adults. I utilize evidence-based, affirming practices to support my clients in processing trauma, regulating mood instability, improving relationships, coping with life transitions, and building confidence in themselves.
Through a neurodivergent affirming lens, I primarily use narrative and cognitive processing therapy to guide clients in telling their stories and processing past experiences.
My focus includes trauma-informed therapy with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals. I primarily work with adolescents and young adults. I utilize evidence-based, affirming practices to support my clients in processing trauma, regulating mood instability, improving relationships, coping with life transitions, and building confidence in themselves.
![Photo of Cynthia Crabb - Sensory and Sensibility, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b49a9ae0-c2fc-483f-ba20-4e11901ffd6f/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are a trauma-focused group, working in somatic, narrative, family systems, and cognitive approaches. Whether you need practical skills and empathetic listening, exploring your past and how it affects your present, or processing specific or developmental traumas, we are here to walk with you on your journey. We are LGBTQIA+ affirming.
We are a trauma-focused group, working in somatic, narrative, family systems, and cognitive approaches. Whether you need practical skills and empathetic listening, exploring your past and how it affects your present, or processing specific or developmental traumas, we are here to walk with you on your journey. We are LGBTQIA+ affirming.
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![Photo of Izzy Kohl, NCC, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ae4e836-47a9-41ae-b4db-eba8e62c06c5/2/320x400.png)
I blend evidence-based practices like narrative, family systems, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and play therapy to create a safe space for clients to explore emotions and build resilience.
My ideal client is willing to explore themselves with open curiosity. Whether it is an exploration of identity or ability, goals or values, I hope to work with clients who seek to understand themself better. It would be a privilege to join you in exploring all of these areas of yourself.
I blend evidence-based practices like narrative, family systems, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and play therapy to create a safe space for clients to explore emotions and build resilience.
My ideal client is willing to explore themselves with open curiosity. Whether it is an exploration of identity or ability, goals or values, I hope to work with clients who seek to understand themself better. It would be a privilege to join you in exploring all of these areas of yourself.
![Photo of Dr. Aiesha Lee, PhD, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6be7945f-63e4-441c-8c63-a3a2f4af45db/3/320x400.jpeg)
We'll collaborate to redefine your narrative, shifting from limitations to empowerment, and addressing not just symptoms but the root causes of your distress.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling with your self-worth as a Black woman? Wondering how to break free from always being "the strong friend" or heal some of those generational curses? If these challenges resonate with you, it might be time to seek support from a therapist who truly understands. Together, we can work on a plan to help you find relief and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Keep reading to find out how connecting with me today can be a transformative step in your life.
We'll collaborate to redefine your narrative, shifting from limitations to empowerment, and addressing not just symptoms but the root causes of your distress.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling with your self-worth as a Black woman? Wondering how to break free from always being "the strong friend" or heal some of those generational curses? If these challenges resonate with you, it might be time to seek support from a therapist who truly understands. Together, we can work on a plan to help you find relief and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Keep reading to find out how connecting with me today can be a transformative step in your life.
![Photo of Molly Alvord - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Pittsburgh, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ce5a639-dfa5-427f-b50c-c96ace8455d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
![Photo of Meghan McConaghy - Saving Sanity, MS , NCC, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec8c75f8-c856-4144-9b93-0b6e2a1e4725/2/320x400.jpeg)
Saving Sanity
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS , NCC, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
I primarily utilize Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Reality Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
As a therapist, my primary goal is to create a safe, accepting, and relaxing environment for all my clients. I recognize that many may fear being judged or vulnerable and I applaud you for taking the leap! I strive to be a sounding board for my clients - someone to bounce your thoughts off of and assist in creating a healthy life worth living.Working in psychology allows me to mix my love for working directly with people and learning about the human psyche. Through psychology, I have formed more insight into understanding the unique experiences individuals have faced that contribute to who they are and how they are feeling.
I primarily utilize Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Reality Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
As a therapist, my primary goal is to create a safe, accepting, and relaxing environment for all my clients. I recognize that many may fear being judged or vulnerable and I applaud you for taking the leap! I strive to be a sounding board for my clients - someone to bounce your thoughts off of and assist in creating a healthy life worth living.Working in psychology allows me to mix my love for working directly with people and learning about the human psyche. Through psychology, I have formed more insight into understanding the unique experiences individuals have faced that contribute to who they are and how they are feeling.
![Photo of Liv McNulty, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc8856f7-6a04-4f72-9921-cd04e5166d8b/1/320x400.png)
My theoretical approach is a blend of person-centered, strength-based, and narrative, all rooted in multiculturalism.
As someone who is also neurodivergent, I help my clients learn how neurodiversity shows up for them in their spaces. I also support clients with their adoptee journey in whatever that means for them. I often work with clients who are trying to make sense and navigate their complex experiences as an adoptee. Sometimes, this looks like helping clients learn to be authentically themselves even when their childhood/environment require(d) them to assimilate. My work also extends to members of the LGBTQIA+ community in providing validating/ affirming care. I am interested in helping you find your voice even in the discomfort of others.
My theoretical approach is a blend of person-centered, strength-based, and narrative, all rooted in multiculturalism.
As someone who is also neurodivergent, I help my clients learn how neurodiversity shows up for them in their spaces. I also support clients with their adoptee journey in whatever that means for them. I often work with clients who are trying to make sense and navigate their complex experiences as an adoptee. Sometimes, this looks like helping clients learn to be authentically themselves even when their childhood/environment require(d) them to assimilate. My work also extends to members of the LGBTQIA+ community in providing validating/ affirming care. I am interested in helping you find your voice even in the discomfort of others.
![Photo of Carli C. King, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47943a03-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carli C. King
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235 (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and active listening, and draws from a rich tapestry of therapeutic approaches, including narrative therapy, emotion-focused therapy (EFT), and the Gottman Method to tailor my support to your unique needs and aspirations.
Hey, I’m Carli, a licensed therapist who specializes in helping people improve their relationships and mental health. If you're feeling stuck in cycles of conflict or uncertainty, I can help you find meaningful connections with yourself and others.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and active listening, and draws from a rich tapestry of therapeutic approaches, including narrative therapy, emotion-focused therapy (EFT), and the Gottman Method to tailor my support to your unique needs and aspirations.
Hey, I’m Carli, a licensed therapist who specializes in helping people improve their relationships and mental health. If you're feeling stuck in cycles of conflict or uncertainty, I can help you find meaningful connections with yourself and others.
![Photo of Karen Rivera-Seda, LPC , MFT , NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2303442-58a1-4300-813a-96fb967d2319/2/320x400.png)
Karen Rivera-Seda
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , MFT , NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
My therapeutic approach mainly utilizes techniques from Structural Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, but other methods are incorporated as needed to support each client's unique needs.
I provide support to college students & adults in the areas of anxiety, grief, life transitions, postpartum anxiety, betrayal trauma, teen trauma, and being the adult child of immigrants. I also provide support to couples in the areas of communication, premarital, pre-engagement, and pre-cohabitation. I've worked with various populations & present issues/concerns, thus garnering my areas of specialty. Being a 1.5-generation immigrant has afforded me firsthand experience/knowledge of the difficulties and challenges that children of immigrants may face. My specialty areas in no way limits my ability to work with a variety of clients.
My therapeutic approach mainly utilizes techniques from Structural Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, but other methods are incorporated as needed to support each client's unique needs.
I provide support to college students & adults in the areas of anxiety, grief, life transitions, postpartum anxiety, betrayal trauma, teen trauma, and being the adult child of immigrants. I also provide support to couples in the areas of communication, premarital, pre-engagement, and pre-cohabitation. I've worked with various populations & present issues/concerns, thus garnering my areas of specialty. Being a 1.5-generation immigrant has afforded me firsthand experience/knowledge of the difficulties and challenges that children of immigrants may face. My specialty areas in no way limits my ability to work with a variety of clients.
![Photo of Leese Hartman, MA, EMDR, CCTP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a0aedee-6f25-4543-b2c2-c4fca725fcb1/1/320x400.png)
I believe strongly in the mind-body connection, using tools and interventions from polyvagal, narrative, relational-cultural, and feminist theory.
If you've experienced trauma, if you are looking for relief from physical symptoms of stress and anxiety, or if you feel unseen or unheard in this world, I'd be honored to support you. I help my clients explore their life stories, the complexity of their relationships, and the implications of living in our current societal structure.
I believe strongly in the mind-body connection, using tools and interventions from polyvagal, narrative, relational-cultural, and feminist theory.
If you've experienced trauma, if you are looking for relief from physical symptoms of stress and anxiety, or if you feel unseen or unheard in this world, I'd be honored to support you. I help my clients explore their life stories, the complexity of their relationships, and the implications of living in our current societal structure.
![Photo of William Dougherty, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45b89cc9-771b-4a09-89ba-6bdcc35be3ad/2/320x400.jpeg)
William Dougherty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212 (Online Only)
One of the concepts I utilize is Narrative Therapy, which encourages and compassionately challenges clients to be mindful of the story they’re telling to better utilize their strengths.
I have been in the mental health field since 1998, working for such organizations as Special Equestrians as a side aid volunteer assisting people with physical and/or mental health disabilities and Lenape Valley Foundation as both a house advisor and a Partial Hospital Program group therapist for people with severe and persistent mental illness. I also worked for Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia for their Narcotic Addict Rehabilitation Program where I was a counselor for people addicted to heroin.
One of the concepts I utilize is Narrative Therapy, which encourages and compassionately challenges clients to be mindful of the story they’re telling to better utilize their strengths.
I have been in the mental health field since 1998, working for such organizations as Special Equestrians as a side aid volunteer assisting people with physical and/or mental health disabilities and Lenape Valley Foundation as both a house advisor and a Partial Hospital Program group therapist for people with severe and persistent mental illness. I also worked for Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia for their Narcotic Addict Rehabilitation Program where I was a counselor for people addicted to heroin.
See more therapy options for Pittsburgh
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Narrative Therapists
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 behavioral 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.