What is Narrative Therapy?

Narrative Therapy is a gentle, respectful way of looking at your life through the stories you carry. We all make sense of ourselves through the stories we tell, about who we are, what we’ve lived through, and what’s possible for us.

Sometimes those stories can feel stuck or painful. You might believe you’re not good enough, that you always mess things up, or that change isn’t possible. Narrative Therapy helps you notice these patterns and explore where they came from, so you can begin shaping a story that feels more true, more whole, and more empowering.

Why Many People Are Choosing Narrative Therapy

People are drawn to Narrative Therapy because it treats them as the expert in their own lives. This approach doesn’t try to diagnose or label—it listens closely to your lived experience and helps you reconnect with your values, hopes, and inner strength.

It’s especially helpful if you’re navigating identity questions, struggling with self-esteem, or healing from trauma, oppression, or major life transitions. Narrative Therapy is often used with students and young adults because it honors growth and helps you discover who you are becoming.

Many clients say they leave sessions feeling lighter, more understood, and more connected to what matters most.

How Narrative Therapy Can Help

You might find Narrative Therapy helpful if you're:

• Stuck in self-critical or limiting beliefs

• Facing a major life change or decision

• Processing past trauma or painful events

• Exploring your identity or sense of purpose

• Struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-worth

Narrative Therapy helps you take a step back and look at the stories that have shaped you. From there, you can begin to choose which stories you want to carry forward—and which you’re ready to rewrite.

How Narrative Therapy Fits into Our Counselling Approach in Victoria

At Harbour Family Counselling, we offer Narrative Therapy as part of a flexible, person-centered approach. We understand that students and adults alike often carry stories that no longer serve them—and that change starts with understanding and compassion.

We often blend Narrative Therapy with other approaches like CBT, IFS, or mindfulness-based tools, depending on what feels most helpful to you. Whether you're coming in for the first time or continuing a journey you've already started, we’ll meet you with care and curiosity.

Who You’ll Work With

Darcy Harbour, RCC
Darcy brings Narrative Therapy into her work with adults who feel stuck in old patterns and want to reconnect with their values.

Maria Butler, RCC
Maria uses Narrative Therapy to support students and professionals working through career decisions, perfectionism, and imposter feelings.

Talita Nell, RCC
Talita works with youth and university students who are questioning their identity, managing transitions, or feeling lost in their current path.

Each counsellor brings warmth, training, and a deep respect for your story.

What Sessions Look Like

In a Narrative Therapy session, you’ll explore the beliefs and meanings attached to your life experiences. You might notice how certain stories have shaped your choices, relationships, and emotions—and start to ask whether they’re still serving you.

Your counsellor will help you reflect on these stories, locate your strengths, and begin building new language around who you are and what you want.

Sessions are 50 minutes, and available in person near UVic and Camosun or online anywhere in British Columbia.

Fees and Insurance

Our session fees range from $155 to $170, depending on the counsellor you choose. We can provide receipts for reimbursement through your student plan (UVSS, Camosun) or workplace and extended family benefits. If you're unsure what your plan covers, we’re happy to help you find out.

Book a Free 20-Minute Consultation

If you’re curious about Narrative Therapy, we’d love to meet you. A free 20-minute consult is a chance to ask questions, get a feel for the process, and see whether this approach feels right for you.