Narrative Therapy In Clinical Practice

Service Description

Storytelling is at the heart of human connection, identity, and healing. In clinical work, the stories clients carry shape how they see themselves, their relationships, and the possibilities available to them. Narrative Therapy, developed by Michael White and David Epston, offers a collaborative, non-pathologizing approach that invites clients to re-author their lives. This training provides an engaging, experiential introduction to the foundational principles and techniques of Narrative Therapy. Participants will explore how to externalize problems, deconstruct dominant narratives, and support clients in thickening stories of resilience and agency. Through writing prompts, metaphor work, and discussion, therapists will gain tools to incorporate narrative-based interventions into individual, couple, and group therapy settings. This training is appropriate for clinicians at all levels who are interested in integrating narrative work into their therapeutic practice. Learning Objectives: Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to: 1. Describe the foundational principles and origins of Narrative Therapy. 2. Identify key Narrative Therapy techniques including externalizing the problem, deconstructing dominant narratives, and re-authoring. 3. Utilize writing prompts, metaphor, and documents of evidence in clinical work. 4. Apply narrative interventions in work with trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational concerns. 5. Discuss their own clinical identity and story and how it applies to their clinical work. 6. Create a plan for integrating narrative techniques into their current therapeutic approach. Presenter Bio: Patrick Walden, LICSW is a seasoned therapist, an EMDRIA-approved consultant and trainer, and founder of Philadelphia EMDR. He has over 15 years of experience working with clients, and his specialty is helping adults healing from complex trauma. His teaching emphasizes empowerment, relational depth, and is anti-oppression. Learn more about his practice at PhiladelphiaEMDR.com. Pennsylvania: "This program is approved for 3 CE credits for professional workshops sponsored by The Center for Clinical Growth, a state affiliate of the Clinical Social Work Association listed in Section 47.36 of Title 49, Chapter 47 of the PA Code, State Board of Social Work Examiners. This program is also approved for 3 CE credits for professional workshops for marriage & family therapists (Section 48.36) and professional counselors (Section 49.36)."