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Narrative Therapy

Narrative therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on the stories that people tell themselves about their lives. The approach is based on the belief that our personal narratives have a significant impact on our mental health and wellbeing, and that by changing the stories we tell ourselves, we can transform our lives for the better. Narrative therapy is a collaborative, non-judgmental, and empowering approach that can be effective for a wide range of mental health concerns.

 

The origins of narrative therapy can be traced back to the work of Michael White and David Epston in the 1980s. They developed the approach as a response to the dominant medical model of mental health, which tended to pathologize individuals and focus on their deficiencies and diagnoses. Narrative therapy, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of understanding the social and cultural context in which people live, and views problems as separate from people. This approach creates space for individuals to explore their experiences and identities, and to challenge the dominant narratives that may be limiting or harmful.

 

In narrative therapy, the therapist works collaboratively with the client to identify the stories that have shaped their self-perception and interactions with the world. These stories can be about anything - from relationships and family dynamics, to career aspirations and personal values. The therapist helps the client to externalize the problem and view it as a separate entity from themselves, rather than something that is inherent in their character. This process allows clients to gain a sense of agency and control over the problem, and to see the problem as something that can be transformed or overcome.

 

One of the key principles of narrative therapy is that people are not limited by their past experiences or the stories they have told themselves. Clients are encouraged to view themselves as the authors of their own lives, and to recognize the many different stories that are available to them. By exploring alternative narratives and reframing the stories they tell themselves, clients can gain new insights and perspectives, and develop greater resilience and flexibility.

 

Narrative therapy can be effective for a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. It can be used in individual, couples, and family therapy settings, and can be integrated with other therapeutic approaches as well. Narrative therapy is a collaborative and empowering approach that honors the unique experiences and identities of each individual. By helping clients to change the stories they tell themselves, narrative therapy can transform lives and create new possibilities for growth and healing.

Gestalt Therapy

Gestalt therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on the present moment and the client's experience in the moment. It emphasizes personal responsibility, self-awareness, and the integration of mind, body, and emotions. This approach is rooted in the idea that people have an innate drive towards wholeness and self-actualization, and that therapy can help them achieve greater awareness and fulfillment in their lives.

 

The Gestalt therapy approach was developed in the 1940s and 1950s by Fritz Perls, Laura Perls, and Paul Goodman. The term "gestalt" comes from the German word meaning "shape" or "form," and it refers to the idea that people's experiences and perceptions are organized into coherent patterns or wholes.

 

One of the core principles of Gestalt therapy is the concept of "here and now." This means that the therapist focuses on the present moment and the client's immediate experience, rather than analyzing past events or exploring future possibilities. By focusing on the present, Gestalt therapists believe that clients can gain greater insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and can develop more effective coping strategies.

 

Another important principle of Gestalt therapy is the emphasis on personal responsibility. This means that clients are encouraged to take ownership of their thoughts, feelings, and actions, and to recognize their role in creating their own experiences. By taking responsibility for their lives, clients can develop greater self-awareness, and can work towards making positive changes.

 

Gestalt therapy also emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and emotions. Clients are encouraged to become more aware of their physical sensations and to explore the connections between their thoughts, emotions, and physical experiences. This approach can help clients develop a greater sense of wholeness and integration, and can support the healing process.

 

During Gestalt therapy sessions, clients may engage in a variety of techniques and exercises, such as role-playing, mindfulness meditation, and guided imagery. These techniques are designed to help clients become more aware of their experiences, and to develop greater insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

 

Overall, Gestalt therapy is a holistic approach to psychotherapy that emphasizes the importance of the present moment, personal responsibility, and the integration of mind, body, and emotions. By working with a Gestalt therapist, clients can develop greater self-awareness, improve their coping strategies, and work towards greater fulfillment and wholeness in their lives.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used form of psychotherapy that focuses on the relationships between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT is a goal-oriented and evidence-based approach that has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

 

CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and that changing one of these can lead to changes in the others. In CBT, clients work with a therapist to identify negative or distorted thoughts and beliefs, and to develop more accurate and adaptive ways of thinking. By changing these thought patterns, clients can experience improvements in their emotional states and behaviors.

 

One of the key features of CBT is its focus on the present moment. Rather than exploring past events or experiences, CBT is oriented towards identifying and changing the thoughts and behaviors that are currently causing distress. This approach can be particularly helpful for individuals who are struggling with anxiety or worry, as it helps them learn to stay focused on the present moment rather than becoming consumed by future scenarios.

 

CBT also emphasizes the importance of homework and practice outside of therapy sessions. Clients are often given assignments to complete between sessions, such as keeping a journal or practicing relaxation techniques. These assignments help clients develop the skills and habits necessary to implement the changes they are working on in therapy.

 

During CBT sessions, therapists may use a variety of techniques and strategies, such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, and exposure therapy. Cognitive restructuring involves identifying and challenging negative or irrational thoughts, and replacing them with more accurate and positive ones. Behavioral activation involves identifying and engaging in activities that bring a sense of pleasure or accomplishment, which can help combat depression and other mood disorders. Exposure therapy involves gradually exposing clients to the situations or stimuli that cause anxiety or fear, in order to help them overcome their fears and develop greater resilience.

 

Overall, CBT is a highly effective form of psychotherapy that has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions. By focusing on the relationships between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and by emphasizing the importance of the present moment and practical application of new skills, CBT can help individuals improve their quality of life and develop greater resilience and wellbeing.

Somatic Experiencing 

Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a therapeutic approach developed by psychologist Dr. Peter A. Levine, designed to address and heal the effects of trauma. Unlike traditional therapies that primarily focus on cognitive and verbal processing, SE recognizes trauma as a physiological and nervous system response rather than solely a psychological phenomenon. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of the mind and body, aiming to restore balance and promote resilience by engaging the body's innate capacity to heal itself.

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At the core of Somatic Experiencing is the understanding that trauma manifests in the body through physical sensations, rather than being solely a product of thoughts and emotions. Through a gentle and supportive process, SE helps individuals develop a greater awareness of their bodily sensations and track the physiological manifestations of trauma.

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Key principles and techniques of Somatic Experiencing include:

  1. Tracking Sensations: SE therapists guide clients to become more attuned to their bodily sensations, helping them develop a deeper awareness of how trauma manifests physically. This increased sensitivity allows individuals to explore and gradually engage with their physiological responses in a safe and supported environment.

  2. Pendulation: Trauma survivors often experience alternating states of hyperarousal (fight-or-flight) and hypoarousal (freeze response). Somatic Experiencing facilitates the process of pendulation, enabling individuals to navigate these pendulum swings between activation and relaxation. By gradually expanding their window of tolerance, individuals can regain a sense of safety and empowerment.

  3. Titration: The approach of titration emphasizes proceeding gradually and incrementally when exploring traumatic experiences. Therapists help clients navigate the edges of their emotional and physical experiences, ensuring that the healing process remains manageable and safe.

  4. Completion of Unfinished Trauma Responses: Traumatic events can disrupt the body's natural instinctual responses, leaving individuals stuck in patterns of unresolved activation. Somatic Experiencing supports clients in safely completing these incomplete responses, allowing the body to discharge held energy and restore a sense of completion and resolution.

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Somatic Experiencing therapy offers several benefits. It provides an opportunity to heal trauma at its root, by addressing the physiological imprints of distress. Through increased awareness of bodily sensations and the development of self-regulation skills, individuals gain resilience and coping strategies to navigate stress and future challenges. By honoring the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, SE promotes holistic integration, leading to a sense of wholeness and well-being.

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In summary, Somatic Experiencing is a therapeutic approach that recognizes trauma as a physiological response and aims to restore balance and resilience by engaging the body's natural healing capacity. By focusing on bodily sensations, tracking physiological manifestations, and completing unfinished trauma responses, individuals can heal at a deep level and regain a sense of safety, empowerment, and wholeness.

Positive Psychology

Positive psychology is a branch of psychology that emerged in the late 20th century with the aim of studying and promoting the positive aspects of human experience. Unlike traditional psychology, which often focused on pathology and treating mental disorders, positive psychology shifted the focus to exploring factors that contribute to well-being, happiness, and flourishing.

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At the core of positive psychology is the belief that individuals have the capacity to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives, and that they possess strengths and resources that can be harnessed to achieve optimal functioning. It seeks to understand what makes life worth living and how to cultivate positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment.

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Positive psychology explores various aspects of well-being:

  1. Positive Emotions: Positive psychology emphasizes the importance of positive emotions like joy, gratitude, love, and contentment. Research shows that experiencing positive emotions enhances well-being, fosters resilience, and strengthens relationships.

  2. Character Strengths: Positive psychology identifies and cultivates character strengths that contribute to personal growth and flourishing. These strengths include qualities like kindness, courage, wisdom, creativity, and perseverance. Recognizing and utilizing these strengths can lead to increased well-being and a sense of purpose.

  3. Flow and Engagement: Positive psychology explores the concept of flow, which is a state of complete immersion and focus in an activity. When individuals are engaged in a task that matches their skills and challenges, they experience a sense of timelessness and deep satisfaction.

  4. Positive Relationships: Positive psychology emphasizes the importance of positive relationships and social connections for well-being. Nurturing healthy and supportive relationships with others promotes happiness, provides a sense of belonging, and contributes to overall life satisfaction.

  5. Meaning and Purpose: Positive psychology recognizes the significance of finding meaning and purpose in life. Having a sense of meaning enables individuals to navigate challenges and setbacks, and it provides a framework for goal-setting and personal growth.

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Positive psychology has practical applications in various areas of life:

  • Education: Positive psychology interventions are used to enhance students' well-being, motivation, and academic performance.

  • Workplaces: Positive psychology interventions are implemented to promote employee engagement, job satisfaction, and overall organizational well-being.

  • Therapy: Positive psychology approaches are integrated into therapeutic practices to help individuals overcome challenges, cultivate resilience, and enhance overall mental health.

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In conclusion, positive psychology is a field that focuses on the positive aspects of human experience and aims to promote well-being, happiness, and flourishing. By exploring positive emotions, character strengths, engagement, relationships, and meaning, positive psychology offers valuable insights and practical strategies for individuals, communities, and organizations to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

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