What approach does narrative therapy primarily encourage?

Narrative therapy primarily encourages individuals to re-author their life stories and focus on their strengths. This therapeutic approach posits that people construct their identities through the stories they tell about themselves and how they relate to their experiences. By helping clients identify and reshape these narratives, therapists enable them to recognize the skills, values, and beliefs that contribute to a more positive self-concept.

In narrative therapy, clients are guided to separate themselves from their problems, viewing difficulties as distinct from their core identity. This process often involves exploring past experiences but with an emphasis on understanding how these experiences can empower clients rather than define or limit them. By focusing on strengths and positive aspects of their stories, clients can foster resilience and agency in their lives, allowing for personal growth and change.