Narrative Therapy: A Social Work Approach to Trauma Healing
Narrative Therapy: Social Work Approaches for Trauma Recovery
Content warning: Please be advised, this article mentions trauma-related topics that include abuse, which could be triggering to the reader. If you or someone you love is experiencing abuse, contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Support is available 24/7.
Among the many therapeutic approaches used by licensed clinical social workers, narrative therapy stands as a powerful technique for addressing trauma and its effects. This approach, which focuses on helping individuals rewrite their personal stories, can be particularly effective when integrated with cognitive-behavioral techniques for trauma recovery. At ReachLink, our licensed clinical social workers utilize these combined approaches to help clients process and move beyond traumatic experiences.
Research demonstrates the effectiveness of telehealth for trauma recovery. In one study, 15 youths who had experienced trauma participated in trauma-focused therapy via videoconferencing with an online therapist. Following treatment, participants generally showed reduced symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with progress comparable to traditional in-person therapy.
Understanding the Narrative-Cognitive Approach
Before exploring trauma-focused approaches specifically, it’s helpful to understand the foundation of narrative therapy integrated with cognitive techniques. This combined approach recognizes that our thoughts shape our perceptions and experiences, while also acknowledging that we make meaning through the stories we tell about ourselves.
For example, someone who has experienced trauma might develop a narrative that they are permanently damaged or unworthy. Our licensed clinical social workers help clients recognize these negative thought patterns and stories, replacing them with more empowering narratives—such as seeing themselves as survivors with strength and resilience.
The effectiveness and versatility of this integrated approach have made it increasingly popular in social work practice, helping many people overcome various mental health challenges related to trauma.
Trauma-focused therapeutic approaches combine narrative techniques with cognitive behavioral strategies to help individuals heal from traumatic experiences. While effective for adults, these approaches can be particularly beneficial for children and adolescents impacted by trauma. The goal is to help individuals rewrite their trauma narratives and develop healthier thought patterns.
How does this approach compare to other trauma therapies?
While our approach shares concepts with other trauma therapies, ReachLink’s licensed clinical social workers specifically tailor treatment to each individual’s needs and circumstances. Our approach can be especially valuable in addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adolescents and children, though it has applications for many different post-traumatic reactions across age groups.
Similar to other evidence-based trauma therapies, our approach helps people manage their past trauma before it develops into more severe mental health challenges. Systematic reviews show that these integrated approaches may be more effective than some other forms of therapy for young people impacted by trauma. Our licensed clinical social workers can help with sleep problems, trauma due to physical abuse, changing emotional responses to triggers, reducing emotional distress, PTSD symptoms, and more.
How does trauma-focused therapy work at ReachLink?
At ReachLink, our trauma-focused therapy typically combines narrative and cognitive-behavioral techniques with family and humanistic therapy approaches when appropriate. Treatment is usually completed in less than 16 sessions, and it can be highly effective at helping individuals heal from traumatic stress.
Creating a new narrative through trauma-focused therapy
Our approach may include systematic exploration of past experiences to help individuals address and move beyond thoughts that can lead to PTSD, stress, depression, and other trauma-related conditions. In doing so, our licensed clinical social workers help clients manage their emotions in healthier ways. One key element is providing treatment in a safe, comfortable virtual environment. This allows clients to remain present during recovery, express their emotions more comfortably, and develop their own trauma narrative. Once individuals feel secure telling their story to their therapist, they work together to discover how their past has affected their perception of reality and develop healthier coping strategies.
Managing effects of trauma with therapeutic techniques
Our trauma-focused approach teaches individuals new skills, so for maximum effectiveness, clients may need to practice these skills between sessions. In some cases, our licensed clinical social workers may assign activities to encourage skill development and help reach therapy goals.
When working with families, our therapists may meet with family members both jointly and individually to help develop skills together. For our approach to work effectively, building a strong therapeutic relationship between all parties involved is essential. Therapy can help all participants strengthen their relationships and improve their coping abilities.
What can trauma-focused therapy at ReachLink address?
While our approach is primarily trauma-focused, you may wonder what specific types of trauma it works best for. The primary application is usually for individuals experiencing PTSD symptoms. Physical, mental, or emotional abuse may leave a child with anxiety, depression, or unhealthy behaviors. Our licensed clinical social workers can help these young people eliminate negative behaviors and develop healthier patterns.
Our therapy may also benefit youth affected by displacement, fostering, adoption, or family difficulties, as well as those experiencing grief or family separation. These experiences can be profoundly impactful. In cases of abuse, there may be parent or caregiver involvement; if abuse occurred at the hands of a caregiver or family member, those individuals would not be invited to attend sessions. However, supportive caregivers not related to the traumatic event may be requested to participate. Any non-offending parents, family members, or caregivers may also attend sessions, depending on the specific circumstances.
Our trauma-focused approach is generally appropriate for individuals between ages three and 18 who have experienced trauma, ranging from mild to severe or repeated trauma. Clients typically learn techniques such as gradual exposure, cognitive processing, deep breathing exercises, and validation techniques. While treatment length depends on the individual, therapy typically lasts between 4 and 6 months.
Our Licensed Clinical Social Workers
At ReachLink, our therapists have specialized training in child development and the mental health of children and adolescents impacted by trauma. All our providers are licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) who have completed extensive education and training in trauma-focused approaches. Before providing services, our mental health providers must meet rigorous qualifications and demonstrate competence in trauma-focused therapeutic techniques.
Effectiveness of trauma-focused therapy
A comprehensive literature review of research on trauma-focused therapy confirms its efficacy for treating depression, PTSD, anxiety, and other effects associated with trauma. Generally, more therapy sessions correlate with greater effectiveness in treatment outcomes.
It’s important to note that not every individual who has experienced trauma will be an ideal candidate for this approach. For instance, children exhibiting significant behavioral problems prior to trauma may benefit from different therapeutic techniques. Our licensed clinical social workers can determine the most appropriate treatment approach for each individual.
Youth experiencing suicidal ideation or substance use issues may require alternative approaches, as trauma-focused treatment could temporarily intensify symptoms. Above all, our mental health providers prioritize client safety, so to avoid putting individuals in potentially harmful situations, another therapy approach may be recommended.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Text or call 988.
