Narrative Theory

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Grand Canyon University *

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Arts Humanities

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Jan 9, 2024

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Narrative Theory Nick Salvesen College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Grand Canyon University CNL 500: Theories and Models of Counseling Dr. Julius Austin 9.27.23 1

Narrative Theory Narrative counseling theory is a valuable approach that can offer significant assistance to Ana, a 24-year-old female facing a myriad of challenges, including job loss, anxiety, and the stress of being a solo parent while her husband is deployed overseas. Ana's story is complex, shaped by her immigrant background, family dynamics, and the multiple stressors she is currently experiencing. Narrative therapy provides a framework for Ana to reframe her experiences, regain a sense of agency, and construct a more hopeful narrative about her life. This paper will explore how narrative theory can be applied to help Ana address her presenting problems and achieve her therapeutic goals. It will outline the goals of counseling, intervention strategies, the treatment process, cultural considerations, the constructivist philosophy, and how a collaborative approach can empower Ana. Additionally, it will discuss strategies to prevent harm or confusion during the therapeutic process. Ultimately, narrative therapy offers a client-centered and culturally sensitive approach that aligns with Ana's unique needs and circumstances, providing a path toward healing and empowerment. Goals of Counseling Narrative counseling theory aims to help clients like Ana understand and reframe their life experiences, ultimately empowering them to navigate their challenges. The primary goals of counseling for Ana would include: 1. Reframing the Narrative: The counselor's first goal is to assist Ana in exploring and reconstructing her narrative about her current life situation. This involves helping her identify and challenge negative thought patterns and self-defeating beliefs. 2

2. Stress Reduction: Given Ana's significant stressors, the counselor should work on techniques to help her manage her anxiety and stress. This may include relaxation exercises, mindfulness, and stress reduction strategies. 3. Emotional Expression: Encourage Ana to express her emotions and feelings about her job loss, her husband's deployment, and her fears about homelessness. Narrative therapy values giving voice to emotions and experiences. 4. Support and Coping Skills: Equip Ana with coping skills to deal with the challenges she faces, such as financial struggles and single parenthood. This may involve problem-solving techniques and building a support network. 5. Identity Exploration: Assist Ana in exploring her identity as a solo parent, her immigrant background, and her educational and career aspirations. Narrative therapy often involves exploring how these aspects of identity influence one's story. Intervention strategies that align with these goals include active listening, empathetic understanding, open-ended questions, and externalization techniques. The counselor should collaboratively work with Ana to externalize problems, helping her see them as separate from herself. This approach can foster a sense of agency and reduce self-blame. Process of Treatment The length of treatment in narrative counseling can vary but typically ranges from a few sessions to several months, depending on the client's needs. In Ana's case, eight sessions authorized by her insurance company may provide a good starting point. The process can be described in the following stages: 3

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1. Assessment and Engagement: The initial sessions involve building rapport, understanding Ana's concerns, and conducting a comprehensive assessment of her life story, challenges, and strengths. 2. Externalization: The counselor helps Ana externalize her problems by separating them from her identity. For instance, instead of saying, "I am overwhelmed," she may reframe it as, "I am dealing with overwhelming circumstances." 3. Reauthoring the Narrative: Ana and the counselor collaboratively work to reconstruct her narrative. They explore alternative stories that emphasize her resilience, strengths, and coping abilities. 4. Skill-Building: Ana is equipped with coping strategies and stress management techniques. She learns how to apply these strategies to her daily life. 5. Monitoring and Evaluation: Throughout the process, the counselor and Ana assess her progress, addressing any setbacks and adjusting the narrative as needed. 6. Termination: As Ana gains confidence in her ability to navigate life's challenges, the counseling sessions can gradually reduce in frequency. Termination occurs when Ana feels empowered and capable of managing her life independently. The counselor's role is that of a collaborator and facilitator, rather than an expert who provides solutions. Ana is the expert of her own life, and the counselor's role is to guide her in reshaping her narrative and discovering her strengths. Social and Cultural Needs 4

Narrative counseling theory is sensitive to social and cultural aspects of a client's life. In Ana's case, her immigrant background and cultural factors should be considered. Research findings suggest that narrative therapy can effectively address social and cultural needs: 1. Cultural Sensitivity: Counselors should be culturally competent and aware of the unique challenges faced by immigrants. This includes understanding the impact of acculturation stress and cultural differences in communication. 2. Cultural Storytelling: Narrative therapy encourages clients to explore and celebrate their cultural identity. Ana can benefit from reflecting on her Guatemalan heritage and how it shapes her story and values. 3. Collective Narrative: Research has shown that narrative therapy can incorporate collective storytelling, involving family members or community members. Ana's family background and relationships can be valuable resources in her narrative reconstruction. 4. Inclusive Language: Counselors should use inclusive language and consider the client's preferred language. For Ana, who speaks Spanish fluently, offering therapy in her native language may enhance her engagement and expression. Constructivist Philosophy and Collaborative Approach Narrative counseling aligns with a constructivist philosophy that emphasizes the idea that individuals construct their own realities. The collaborative approach within this theory empowers clients to actively participate in their therapeutic journey. In Ana's case: 5

1. Co-Creation of Meaning: Ana and the counselor collaboratively explore her experiences and co-create meaning from them. Ana is not a passive recipient of advice but an active participant in reshaping her narrative. 2. Empowerment: The constructivist philosophy and collaborative approach empower Ana to take ownership of her story and make choices that align with her values and goals. 3. Unique Perspectives: By engaging in collaborative conversations, Ana can gain different perspectives on her challenges and discover new ways to navigate them. 4. Respect for Diversity: The approach respects Ana's unique background and experiences, acknowledging that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Preventing Harm and Confusion To prevent undue harm, risk, or confusion in narrative counseling, the counselor should always seek to uphold ethical standards, ensuring a safe and confidential space for Ana to share her experiences without judgment. In addition, the counselor should actively collaborate with Ana to ensure that the therapeutic process is aligned with her goals and values. Additional steps for the counselor to consider are listed below: 1. Monitor Progress: Regularly assess Ana's progress and well-being to identify any signs of distress or regression. Adjust the therapeutic approach as needed 2. Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware of cultural factors and how they may influence the counseling process. Respect Ana's cultural beliefs and values. 3. Referral: If necessary, consider referring Ana to other professionals or resources, such as financial counselors or support groups, to address specific needs. 6

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In summary, narrative counseling theory offers a collaborative and culturally sensitive approach to help clients like Ana reconstruct their narratives, address their challenges, and build resilience. The process is client-centered, empowering individuals to take control of their stories and work towards their goals with the guidance of a supportive counselor. Ethical considerations and cultural competence are integral to ensuring the effectiveness and safety of this therapeutic approach. 7

References American Nurses Association. (n.d.). Scope of practice . https://www.nursingworld.org/practice- policy/scope-of-practice/ American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000 Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2014). Improving cultural competence (HHS Publication No. 14-4849). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK248428/ Copeland, T., Henderson, B., Mayer, B., & Nicholson, S. (2013). Three different paths for tabletop gaming in school libraries. Library Trends, 61 (4), 825–835. https://doi.org/10.1353/lib.2013.0018 Holland, R. A., & Forrest, B. K. (2017). Good arguments: Making your case in writing and public speaking . Baker Academic. 8

Narrative Theory

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