Narrative Therapy

Narrative therapy is based on the understanding that every person carries stories about who they are.

These stories shape how someone interprets events, how they relate to others, how they see their experiences at work, and most importantly how they see themselves. Some stories are supportive and grounding. Others can be painful, restrictive, or deeply unfair.

These internal stories can influence decisions, limit possibilities, and keep people stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. Even when life has changed, the story someone tells themselves can stay the same, holding them back from connection, choice, or the things they want for their future.

Young female adult standing on the street with blonde hair and purple scarfe

Noticing the stories we live by

Narrative therapy invites people to slow down and gently notice the stories they have internalised over time. With support and curiosity, it becomes possible to explore where those stories came from and whether they are accurate or helpful.

This approach makes space to question the beliefs that create shame or self-blame. It creates room to ask whether a difficult story is the whole story or only one part of a much wider picture.

Finding what has been overlooked

Often the most powerful work in narrative therapy involves uncovering the parts of someone’s life that have been overshadowed or forgotten. Together, therapist and client look for moments that contradict the painful narrative. These may be:

times of resilience
memories of kindness
examples of wisdom or capability
achievements that were dismissed or minimised

These experiences are brought back into awareness and gradually woven into a more balanced and truthful sense of self.

Young adult queer couple outside embracing

Creating new possibilities

Narrative therapy does not erase what has happened. Instead, it supports people to develop new meanings and identities that are grounded in their lived experience rather than in old assumptions. As new stories emerge, choices often expand. People begin to see themselves as more than the problem they have faced.

This process can strengthen hope, increase confidence, and make room for change that feels authentic and self-directed.

A collaborative and respectful approach

At Collective Hope Therapy, narrative work is never about telling someone who they are. It is a collaborative process that honours the person as the expert in their own life. The therapist walks beside them, helping to notice what has been shaped by past experiences and what is still possible moving forward.

Narrative therapy can offer a powerful shift for people who feel defined by old stories. It supports them to see themselves with more compassion, to reconnect with their strengths, and to build a story that reflects their worth and potential.

We provide in-person appointments at our therapy practice in Epping, Melbourne and online across Australia.