Narrative Cognitive Therapy

Humans are relational beings. Psychopathology is defined by behaviors that are outside the norm as determined by a dominate culture. As such, relations are very important in conceptualizing a client. This is particular true with children, their success in counseling is often not measured by them, but by the adults in their life. I think humans relate to each other and create meaning through narratives and interactions I believe this is one reason a children with high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder has difficulty with peers. A child with ASD has difficulty sharing their narrative and interacting with others. An individual’s genetic pre-dispositions influence the manner in which they interact within the world and with others. I have previously …show more content…
Cognitive Behavior Therapy techniques in conjunction with anti-psychotic medication have demonstrated effectiveness in treating positive and negative symptoms associated with schizophrenia. However, several studies suggest that CBT does not reduce relapse and readmission compared to standard care. The authors argue helping psychotic patients narrate their life stories may help reduce relapse and readmission rate. The authors outline a Narrative Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Clinicians using this model ask the client to state any negative beliefs they have about themselves, others, and the world. Client’s than describe how they would prefer all these things to be. The therapist’s searches for client narrative that does not support the client’s experience with reality, and helps develop alternative stories that lead to a new view of things. This is done through problem solving with the client. The authors argue by combing these two therapies, therapists can work within the patient’s view of the world, it allows the therapist to view problems in the client’s context. The authors contend it’s conducive for open groups, all patients are able to share their …show more content…
I need to follow the developing research on integrating these two theories. I think integration of these can be particular helpful when working with children. Working within a school system, it is important to conceptualize a child as a product of their genetic-pre dispositions, environment, and their own interactions with the world. I must work within the school system to provide services. I need to keep in mind my client is the child not their parents, teacher, or administrator. I need to assess if a child wants to change or if others want them to change. Combining narrative and cognitive techniques in counseling allows a child to develop narrative, but work collaboratively with me to address aspects of their narrative that may not be helping them achieve their