What is a key goal of narrative therapy when working with clients?

Narrative therapy emphasizes the importance of the stories that people tell about their lives. A key goal of this therapeutic approach is to help clients discover and develop alternative perspectives on their problems. In narrative therapy, individuals are encouraged to externalize their issues, meaning they analyze their problems as separate from themselves. This process allows clients to see their challenges through different lenses and can lead to a re-authoring of their personal narratives. By exploring alternative stories, clients can move toward empowerment and change, thus reducing feelings of helplessness often associated with their problems.

Encouraging clients to avoid discussing their stories is contrary to the principles of narrative therapy, which focuses on storytelling and meaning-making. Reinforcing the dominant story would limit the exploration of alternative narratives, which is central to promoting a more nuanced understanding of one's life. Identifying the therapist's dominant view is not a goal of narrative therapy, as the focus is primarily on the client's experience and perspective rather than the therapist's viewpoint. Hence, the focus on uncovering alternative perspectives aligns perfectly with the goals of narrative therapy.