Narrative Therapy to Rewrite Your Story and Empower Your Future
Narrative Therapy helps you separate yourself from your problems and reauthor the stories you tell about your life. Through guided dialogue, clients uncover dominant narratives, identify their effects, and reclaim voice, agency, and identity.
What Is Narrative Therapy and How Does It Work?
Narrative Therapy is based on the belief that the stories we tell about ourselves shape our identity and influence how we experience life. By examining these stories, separating yourself from problems, and creating new empowering narratives, you can open the door to change.
Key Benefits
Externalizes the Problem
See the problem as something outside of you—not who you are.
Reduces Shame and Self-Stigma
Challenge internalized stories that define your identity by struggle.
Strengthens Personal Agency
Reclaim authorship of your life and the power to choose how your story unfolds.
Builds Empowering Alternative Narratives
Highlight personal values, skills, and acts of resistance to hardship.
Treatment Goals
Deconstruct Dominant Problem Narratives
Examine how problems have shaped identity and relationships.
Name Values and Preferred Identity Themes
Clarify who you are beyond your struggles and symptoms.
Reauthor Alternative Stories
Create new narratives based on strengths, resilience, and lived values.
Anchor Change Through Documentation
Use letters, rituals, and community witnesses to reinforce identity shifts.
Narrative Therapy for Identity, Voice, and Meaning-Making
Narrative Therapy helps clients externalize their problems and explore the impact of dominant cultural and personal narratives. Through reauthoring conversations, clients discover alternative stories that better reflect their strengths, intentions, and values.
The Process
The Process
The Process
1
1
Externalizing the Problem
We begin by identifying how the problem “shows up” and giving it a name—separating it from the person
2
2
Mapping the Problem’s Effects
Clients explore how the problem affects relationships, emotions, self-concept, and daily life.
3
3
Discovering Unique Outcomes
Moments when the problem didn’t dominate become starting points for change.
4
4
Reauthoring Conversations
Therapist and client co-construct new stories centered on strengths, values, and intentions.
5
5
Reinforcing New Identity
Clients write letters, documents, or share experiences to ground the new story in lived experience.
Techniques Used
Scientific Background
Historical Development
Techniques Used
Externalization
Language techniques that frame the problem as separate from the person (e.g., “anxiety is trying to control your choices”).
Unique Outcomes Discovery
Focused questioning that uncovers moments of success or resistance.
Reauthoring Conversations
Dialogues that center on values, relationships, and past actions that contradict the problem story.
Therapeutic Letters
Therapist-written documents that summarize progress and celebrate emerging identities.
Techniques Used
Scientific Background
Historical Development
Techniques Used
Externalization
Language techniques that frame the problem as separate from the person (e.g., “anxiety is trying to control your choices”).
Unique Outcomes Discovery
Focused questioning that uncovers moments of success or resistance.
Reauthoring Conversations
Dialogues that center on values, relationships, and past actions that contradict the problem story.
Therapeutic Letters
Therapist-written documents that summarize progress and celebrate emerging identities.
Techniques Used
Scientific Background
History
Techniques Used
Externalization
Language techniques that frame the problem as separate from the person (e.g., “anxiety is trying to control your choices”).
Unique Outcomes Discovery
Focused questioning that uncovers moments of success or resistance.
Reauthoring Conversations
Dialogues that center on values, relationships, and past actions that contradict the problem story.
Therapeutic Letters
Therapist-written documents that summarize progress and celebrate emerging identities.
Typical Exercises
Typical Exercises
Problem-Saturation Mapping Worksheet
Identify how the problem narrative has shaped different areas of your life.
Unique Outcomes Journal
Track events when the problem didn’t dominate and why that mattered.
Values & Identity Tree
Visual exercise connecting values to past actions, choices, and dreams.
Letter from the Future Self
Write from the perspective of your reauthored identity, offering insight and encouragement.
Select your insurance company
to see your coverage
Don't see your plan?
Give us a call: 818.821.6012
Cigna
Aetna
Beacon
Optum
L.A. Care
United Health
Other
Your copay could
be as low as
$0
Average Cigna member copay
per session
$15*
Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call
at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.
What your coverage may include
Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.
Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!
Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.
*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.
Select your insurance company
to see your coverage
Don't see your plan?
Give us a call: 818.821.6012
Cigna
Aetna
Beacon
Optum
L.A. Care
United Health
Other
Your copay could
be as low as
$0
Average Cigna member copay
per session
$15*
Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.
What your coverage may include
Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.
Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!
Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.
*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.
Select your insurance company
to see your coverage
Don't see your plan?
Give us a call: 818.821.6012
Cigna
Aetna
Beacon
Optum
L.A. Care
United Health
Other
Your copay could
be as low as
$0
Average Cigna member copay
per session
$15*
Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.
What your coverage may include
Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.
Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!
Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.
*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.
Testimonials
100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating
Justin M.
It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!
Cielo P.
I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.
Ricky M.
I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.
Jessa R.
Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍
Quinton H.
My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.
Chris M
Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!
Cal B.
I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.
Anne B.
Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.
Rebecca H.
FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.
Jessica S.
My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!
Aileen D.
Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.
Yesenia G.
I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support
Testimonials
100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating
Justin M.
It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!
Cielo P.
I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.
Ricky M.
I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.
Jessa R.
Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍
Quinton H.
My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.
Chris M
Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!
Cal B.
I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.
Anne B.
Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.
Rebecca H.
FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.
Jessica S.
My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!
Aileen D.
Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.
Yesenia G.
I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support
Testimonials
100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating
Justin M.
It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!
Cielo P.
I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.
Ricky M.
I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.
Jessa R.
Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍
Quinton H.
My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.
Chris M
Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!
Cal B.
I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.
Anne B.
Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.
Rebecca H.
FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.
Jessica S.
My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!
Aileen D.
Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.
Yesenia G.
I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support
Insights & Guidance for a Healthier Mind
Explore expert advice, therapy tips, and mental wellness strategies to support your journey to a balanced life.
Insights & Guidance for a Healthier Mind
Explore expert advice, therapy tips, and mental wellness strategies to support your journey to a balanced life.
Insights & Guidance for a Healthier Mind
Explore expert advice, therapy tips, and mental wellness strategies to support your journey to a balanced life.
Common Questions
Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.
Who are the therapists at FamilyTime Centers, and what are their qualifications?
What does therapy at FamilyTime Centers cost?
What types of therapy services do you offer?
How flexible are your scheduling options?
Can I get online therapy in California from FamilyTime Centers?
How do I start therapy in Valley Village, Los Angeles
Does FamilyTime Centers accept insurance in Los Angeles?
What therapy is offered for anxiety in Los Angeles?
Common Questions
Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.
Who are the therapists at FamilyTime Centers, and what are their qualifications?
What does therapy at FamilyTime Centers cost?
What types of therapy services do you offer?
How flexible are your scheduling options?
Can I get online therapy in California from FamilyTime Centers?
How do I start therapy in Valley Village, Los Angeles
Does FamilyTime Centers accept insurance in Los Angeles?
What therapy is offered for anxiety in Los Angeles?
Common Questions
Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.
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By conditon
12501 Chandler Blvd, Suite 102
Valley Village, CA 91607
Phone: (818) 821-6012
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00–19:00, Sat 10:00–14:00
✉️ Email | 📞 Call Now | 📍 View on Google Maps
© 2025 Copyright FamilyTime Center. All rights reserved.
Join FamilyTime's newsletter
Receive expert advice, coping strategies, and mental wellness resources from our licensed California therapists - delivered weekly.
By submitting your email, you are consenting to receive emails from FamilyTime Center and accepting the terms.
Find care
By conditon
Types of care
Our approaches
By region
Legal pages
12501 Chandler Blvd, Suite 102
Valley Village, CA 91607
Phone: (818) 821-6012
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00–19:00, Sat 10:00–14:00
✉️ Email | 📞 Call Now | 📍 View on Google Maps
© 2025 Copyright FamilyTime Center. All rights reserved.
Join FamilyTime's newsletter
Receive expert advice, coping strategies, and mental wellness resources from our licensed California therapists - delivered weekly.
By submitting your email, you are consenting to receive emails from FamilyTime Center and accepting the terms.
Find care
By conditon
Types of care
Our approaches
By region
Legal pages
12501 Chandler Blvd, Suite 102
Valley Village, CA 91607
Phone: (818) 821-6012
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00–19:00, Sat 10:00–14:00
✉️ Email | 📞 Call Now | 📍 View on Google Maps
© 2025 Copyright FamilyTime Center. All rights reserved.