Narrative Therapy for Mental Health in MA
The stories we tell ourselves shape how we see the world, our struggles, and our sense of self. At Rebuilding Mental Health in Massachusetts, we use narrative therapy to help you reshape your story with clarity, compassion, and purpose.
What Is Narrative Therapy?
Narrative therapy is a type of psychotherapy that helps people separate their identity from the challenges they face. Developed in the 1980s by Michael White and David Epston, this therapeutic approach encourages people to explore the stories they’ve built around their experiences and rewrite them in more empowering ways. It’s based on the idea that:
- People are not their problems
- Stories shape our understanding of life
- Re-authoring allows personal empowerment
A 2024 study found that narrative therapy helped to lower the symptoms of depression in adults with physical health conditions. While more research is needed for other populations, the results show it can be a valuable way to support your emotional health.
How Narrative Therapy Works
Narrative therapy invites you to look at your experiences from a new perspective. Through guided conversations with your therapist, you start to notice patterns, beliefs, and messages that may be getting in your way.
Key techniques include externalization (separating the person from the problem) and deconstruction (breaking down harmful or limiting beliefs). This allows you to challenge old narratives and rewrite them in a way that promotes healing, confidence, and growth.
Narrative Therapy vs. Narrative Exposure Therapy
Though similar in name, narrative therapy and narrative exposure therapy (NET) have different goals. Narrative therapy focuses on personal meaning and identity, helping clients rewrite their life stories. NET is used mainly for trauma survivors and involves a structured retelling of traumatic events to reduce PTSD symptoms. Both use storytelling, but narrative therapy is more flexible and focused on long-term recovery.
How Narrative Therapy Can Help
This therapy helps you explore how your experiences have shaped the way you see yourself and offers a chance to reshape that story. It gives you space to reflect, recognize patterns, and separate your identity from the challenges you’ve faced.
By rewriting these inner stories, you can build confidence, feel more in control, and find new ways to manage anxiety, depression, or trauma. It also supports long-term mental wellness by helping you better understand your emotions.
The Benefits
- Encourages self-reflection and personal insight
- Helps separate your identity from your mental health challenges
- Builds emotional strength and flexibility
- Supports long-term healing and personal growth
Who Is Narrative Treatment For?
Narrative therapy can help with a wide range of mental health conditions. It is especially useful for those navigating:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression & depressive disorders
- PTSD and trauma
- Grief and loss
- Attachment issues
- Eating disorders
What to Expect
- Session Format: Narrative therapy typically happens in one-on-one sessions using journaling, open-ended questions, and storytelling exercises.
- Therapeutic Relationship: The therapist works with you as a partner. The space is collaborative, supportive, and free from judgment.
- Therapist Role: Your therapist is a guide, not a fixer. They help you uncover strengths and rewrite the parts of your story that no longer serve you.
Why Choose Rebuilding Mental Health?
At Rebuilding Mental Health, we take a compassionate and individualized approach to narrative therapy. Our dedicated team helps you explore your story in a way that feels safe, empowering, and deeply personal.
Our Approach to Mental Health Treatment
We use trauma-informed, holistic care that’s tailored to your unique story, needs, and goals.
Highly Qualified Mental Health Professionals
Our team includes licensed therapists trained in narrative therapy and other supportive treatment methods.
A Safe and Supportive Therapeutic Environment
We offer a judgment-free space where you can feel understood and supported as you work through your experiences.
Our Outpatient Therapy Programs
Narrative therapy is available across all levels of care at Rebuilding. Whether you need intensive support or flexible scheduling, we’ll help you choose the right program to meet your goals.
Day Treatment
An intensive Day Treatment program is suited for people who need strong structure. You’ll attend groups, individual sessions, and skills-based work focused on attention, organization, and emotional regulation.
Half-Day Treatment
For a step down, you can attend Half-Day Treatment sessions. This offers hands-on ADHD therapy and skills training in shorter blocks, allowing you to maintain a balance between work, classes, and family life.
Virtual Treatment
Using secure Zoom video calls, you can take part in Virtual Treatment. You’ll connect with clinicians, learn skills, and get support from home when in-person care isn’t a practical option for you.
Ready to Rebuild?
Your past doesn’t define who you are or where you’re headed. At Rebuilding Mental Health, we can help you retell your story with strength, honesty, and hope. Reach out to us today to schedule a confidential consultation or verify your insurance. We’re here to walk with you as you reshape your future.
Ready to Rebuild?
FAQs
What is psychotherapy?
What kind of therapist do I need?
That depends on your needs. At Rebuilding, our licensed therapists specialize in narrative therapy and other evidence-based approaches.
Do you offer narrative family therapy?
Yes, we offer family therapy sessions that incorporate narrative techniques to improve relationships and shared understanding.
Is new story counseling the same as narrative therapy?
They are similar. Both focus on helping people reframe their life stories, but narrative therapy is a formal, evidence-based therapeutic method.
Is narrative therapy the same as CBT?
No, CBT focuses on thought patterns, while narrative therapy focuses on your story and identity. However, they can be used together.
Can I do narrative therapy for trauma?
Yes. Narrative therapy is often used to help people process and reframe traumatic experiences.
How long does narrative therapy last?
The length of therapy depends on your needs and goals. Some people benefit in a few months, while others continue longer for ongoing support.
Can I combine narrative therapy with other therapies?
Absolutely. At Rebuilding, narrative therapy is often combined with trauma-informed, holistic, and skills-based approaches.
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