Narrative Therapy in Calgary
We offer Narrative Therapy to help individuals and couples reshape their personal stories and view themselves more empowering.
What is Narrative Therapy?
Narrative Therapy is a therapeutic approach that sees problems as separate from people. It suggests that the challenges individuals face—such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues—are often influenced by the stories they tell themselves.
What Does It Mean That Problems Are Separate From People?
In Narrative Therapy, problems are viewed as external forces that can be understood, re-framed, and ultimately changed, rather than internal flaws of the individual. This perspective helps to reduce feelings of shame, guilt, or self-blame, empowering you to take charge of your life’s narrative.
The goal of Narrative Therapy is to help clients re-author their life stories in a way that is more aligned with their values and aspirations. This process involves reflecting on past experiences, recognizing unhelpful patterns, and envisioning new possibilities for the future.
How Can Re-authoring My Story Change My Life?
By reshaping your narrative, you can free yourself from limiting beliefs and begin living in a way that reflects your true self, fostering a sense of meaning, purpose, and empowerment.
How Does Narrative Therapy Work?
Narrative Therapy involves collaboration between the therapist and client to explore the client’s life story.
Through open-ended questions and guided reflection, the therapist helps clients examine how their experiences have shaped their identities. This supportive approach fosters self-awareness and personal growth. Key steps in Narrative Therapy include identifying dominant narratives, separating the person from the problem, and reframing experiences to highlight strengths.
Clients are encouraged to rewrite their stories, focusing on empowerment and resilience to create meaningful change in their lives. The therapy process typically involves several key steps:
Externalizing the Problem
Rather than viewing the problem as an inherent part of the person, Narrative Therapy externalizes the issue.
“What does externalizing the problem mean?”
By seeing the problem as separate from oneself, clients can approach it with a sense of distance and objectivity. For example, if a person struggles with anxiety, they may view anxiety as a “companion” or “voice” that they can challenge, rather than an unchangeable part of their identity. This helps reduce shame and fosters a sense of control.
Identifying Dominant Narratives
Many people carry dominant, often negative, narratives about themselves based on past experiences, societal expectations, or others’ perceptions.
“How do I know what my dominant narrative is?”
Common dominant narratives include beliefs like “I am not good enough,” “I am always a failure,” or “I am unlovable.” The therapist helps clients identify these limiting stories and recognize how they impact their thoughts, behaviours, and emotions.
Exploring Exceptions
Narrative Therapy emphasizes identifying moments in a person’s life when the problem was not dominant or when they acted in ways that contradicted their negative self-story.
“What if my negative story is all I know?”
By exploring exceptions—times when you experienced success, felt confident, or acted in line with your values—clients begin to recognize that they are more than their struggles. These exceptions provide valuable insights into the client’s strengths and resilience, which can be integrated into their new narrative.
Re-Authoring the Story
The heart of Narrative Therapy is re-authoring the story.
“What does it mean to re-author my life story?”
This process involves working with your therapist to rewrite your narrative in a way that reflects your strengths, values, and aspirations. Instead of focusing on past failures or trauma, you begin to see yourself as a person who has faced challenges but also has the power to create new possibilities. This shift in perspective can lead to greater self-esteem, clarity, and a renewed sense of hope.
Creating a Preferred Future
Once clients have re-authored their story, they work with their therapist to create a vision for the future.
“How can Narrative Therapy help me move forward?”
By exploring your values, passions, and goals, Narrative Therapy helps you develop a plan for the future that aligns with your preferred narrative. This step empowers clients to take actionable steps toward creating the life they desire.
Who Can Benefit from Narrative Therapy?
This approach is particularly beneficial for those dealing with trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, or identity concerns.
Narrative Therapy is ideal for individuals who want to explore their personal stories to create meaningful change. It can help with overcoming challenges, improving relationships, or finding purpose and direction. It provides a supportive space to rewrite negative narratives and build a more empowering life story.
It is especially helpful for:
People Struggling with Identity Issues
If you are feeling lost or disconnected from your true self, Narrative Therapy can help you rediscover who you are and what you value.
“Can Narrative Therapy help with identity issues?”
Yes, it can provide clarity by helping you explore your personal story and redefine your sense of self.
Those Experiencing Anxiety or Depression
People struggling with anxiety or depression may feel trapped in negative thought patterns that affect their self-worth and overall view of the world.
“Can Narrative Therapy help with depression or anxiety?”
Yes, by re-authoring your story and changing your perspective on challenges, you can reduce the impact of anxiety and depression and build healthier, more positive ways of thinking.
Trauma Survivors
For those who have experienced trauma, Narrative Therapy can help reframe the story of the experience and its impact.
“Can Narrative Therapy help me heal from trauma?”
Yes, by externalizing the trauma and exploring it from a new perspective, individuals can take back control over their story and reduce the emotional burden of the past.
Couples and Families
Narrative Therapy is also effective for couples and families who are experiencing communication breakdowns, conflict, or difficulties in understanding each other’s perspectives.
“How can Narrative Therapy help our relationship?”
By looking at the issues from a more neutral, externalized perspective, couples and families can gain a clearer understanding of the dynamics at play and work toward healthier patterns of interaction.
People Facing Major Life Transitions
Life changes such as a career shift, divorce, or the loss of a loved one can lead to feelings of uncertainty and loss.
“Can Narrative Therapy help me through a life transition?”
Yes, Narrative Therapy can provide the tools to reframe the transition and help you find meaning and direction in the midst of change.
What to Expect During Narrative Therapy at Solasta
At Solasta, our Narrative Therapy sessions provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore your personal story and create meaningful change.
How Often Should I Attend Narrative Therapy Sessions?
The frequency of sessions depends on your unique needs and goals. Many clients benefit from weekly sessions to build momentum, while others may prefer bi-weekly appointments.
Your therapist will help you determine a schedule that works best for you.
What Should I Expect From My First Session?
In your initial session, we’ll discuss your history, therapy goals, and current challenges.
Together, we’ll identify the dominant narratives shaping your life and begin re-authoring your story.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
The timeline varies, but most clients notice shifts in perspective within a few sessions.
Why Choose Solasta for Narrative Therapy in Calgary?
Our compassionate therapists are skilled in the practice of Narrative Therapy and dedicated to helping you reframe your life’s story.
Calgary Counselling and Psychology Services
Our Calgary psychologists have a wide range of experience and expertise in understanding the unique needs of our clients and helping you reach your therapy goals.
CAP
All of our psychologists are registered with the College of Alberta Psychologist.
PAA
Many of our psychologists are members of the Psychology Association of Alberta.
CCPA
Many of our psychologists are members of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.
Therapists Specializing in Narrative Therapy
We’re Located in Calgary, Alberta
We provide counselling and psychological services in-person in Calgary and online counselling throughout Alberta.
Suite 200, 1716 16 Ave NW, Calgary AB
*free parking behind the building
Our Calgary Office Space
Our thoughtfully designed counselling spaces are crafted to create a warm, welcoming environment where you can feel completely at ease.
Get Started With Solasta in Three Easy Steps
Find Your Therapist
Book Online
Choose a date and time that fits your schedule and receive instant confirmation of your appointment.
In-person or Online
Visit our welcoming Calgary office or meet with your therapist online from the comfort of your home.
FAQs
What types of therapy do you offer at Solasta Counselling?
At Solasta Counselling, we offer a wide range of evidence-based therapies tailored to your individual needs.
These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR for trauma, Narrative Therapy, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Each approach is designed to help address specific challenges, whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, trauma, or other concerns.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
Therapy can be helpful if you’re experiencing emotional or psychological challenges that affect your daily life, relationships, or well-being.
Common signs include persistent feelings of sadness or anxiety, difficulty coping with stress, or a desire for personal growth and self-discovery.
If you’re unsure, an initial consultation can help you explore your concerns and determine if therapy is a good fit for you.
What can I expect during my first session?
Your first session at Solasta Counselling will focus on understanding your unique situation and goals.
You’ll discuss your current challenges, personal history, and what you hope to achieve in therapy.
This session allows your therapist to tailor a treatment plan that suits your needs, while also giving you an opportunity to ask questions and build a comfortable, trusting relationship.
Do you offer virtual or in-person counselling sessions?
Yes, Solasta Counselling offers both virtual and in-person sessions to accommodate your preferences and needs.
Virtual therapy allows you to access support from the comfort of your home, while in-person sessions provide a private, welcoming environment at our Calgary location and throughout Alberta.
Both options ensure the same level of care and confidentiality.
How long does therapy usually take?
The length of therapy varies depending on your goals and the complexity of your concerns.
Some clients see improvement in just a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support.
Your therapist will work with you to set realistic expectations and adjust your treatment plan as you progress.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes, all sessions at Solasta Counselling are confidential.
We follow strict professional and legal guidelines to protect your privacy.
The only exceptions involve safety concerns, such as risks of harm to yourself or others, which your therapist will explain during your initial session.