Understanding Narrative Therapy

Narrative Therapy is a collaborative, strengths‑based approach that helps you become the author of your own life story. Rather than viewing problems as part of who you are, this approach encourages you to externalize challenges and see them as separate from your identity. Developed in the 1970s and 1980s by Michael White and David Epston, it emphasizes values, unique outcomes, and re‑authoring identity. At Selah Counseling Center, Narrative Therapy is one of the many evidence‑informed modalities offered alongside Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, EMDR, DBT, and Positive Psychology.

By focusing on the history of your strengths and values, Narrative Therapy empowers you to confront current and future struggles more effectively. It is especially helpful if you feel stuck in negative patterns shaped by past experiences.

How It Works in Practice

When you begin Narrative Therapy at Selah Counseling Center, your therapist collaborates with you to explore your personal story. First, you identify dominant “problem‑saturated” narratives—stories that may overemphasize anxiety, depression, trauma, or self‑doubt.

Next, your therapist assists you in externalizing those problems, helping you see them as influences rather than inherent traits. For example, anxiety is viewed as something that affects you rather than defining you.

After that, you work together to uncover “unique outcomes”—moments when you acted with agency, resilience, or values despite difficulties. These exceptions offer alternative strands to your personal story, revealing strengths, emotional vitality, and growth possibilities.

Finally, you co‑author a new narrative—one that reflects your values, skills, and preferred identity. You may also use tools like the “Statement of Position Map” or even involve outsider witnesses to reflect back on your emerging narrative in a community context.

Why Narrative Therapy Is Powerful

There are several key benefits to this approach:

  • It empowers you to reshape how you view yourself and your life.

  • It separates problems from identity, helping you build emotional distance from painful or limiting stories.

  • It highlights values and strengths, anchoring change in your own beliefs.

  • It opens pathways for growth by focusing on exceptions and new possibilities.

  • It fosters collaborative dialogue, positioning you as the expert of your life story, not the therapist.

Moreover, Narrative Therapy at Selah is integrated with Positive Psychology principles and mindfulness strategies. This enriches the process, helping you stay grounded and oriented toward well‑being rather than only problem‑solving.

What to Expect at Selah Counseling Center

When you book your first session at Selah Counseling Center in Phoenix, AZ, expect the following:

First session—your therapist will gather background information and collaborate with you to set goals tailored to your journey. Then, weekly sessions are recommended to build trust and maintain momentum.

During those sessions, you will engage in thoughtful conversations. Your therapist will ask questions that invite reflection on your values, memories, and moments when you overcame adversity. Over time, this narrative work supports healing, meaning‑making, and personal growth.

A Real Difference in Phoenix

Selah Counseling Center specializes in Narrative Therapy among other modalities, and the team includes providers like Shannon Jacobson, LCSW and Amy Wadlington, LMSW who use it with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, self‑esteem, and more. Their approach is compassionate, personalized, and professional.

They treat each client as a whole person and follow a mission grounded in guiding individuals toward a brighter future. They understand that narrative work often serves as an opening into renewed purpose, resilience, and hope.

Embracing Your New Story

Through Narrative Therapy at Selah Counseling Center, you learn to:

  • Identify the stories that have held you back.

  • Externalize those limiting narratives.

  • Recognize small but meaningful moments when your strengths shone through.

  • Rewrite your life story to align with your values, hopes, and goals.

As a result, you reclaim agency over your identity and create a more hopeful and empowered future.

As you engage in this process, you gradually transform your story from a problem‑focused script to one grounded in strength, clarity, and purpose.

Take the Next Step in Your Journey

Ready to rewrite your life story with Narrative Therapy at Selah Counseling Center? Connect with a compassionate therapist who will walk with you, listen deeply, and help you re‑author your narrative. Contact us to begin your journey toward greater clarity, strength, and healing.

Contact us today to begin your journey toward a brighter story.