Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is a type of psychotherapy that has been shown to be effective in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

NET is an alternative treatment to traditional exposure therapy and aims to help individuals process traumatic experiences by telling their stories in a safe and supportive environment. In this article, we'll explore Narrative Exposure Therapy as an alternative treatment for PTSD, including its goals, techniques, and evidence base. 

What is Narrative Exposure Therapy for PTSD?

Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is a type of psychotherapy that aims to help individuals process traumatic experiences by telling their stories in a safe and supportive environment. NET is based on the theory that trauma memories can be stored in the brain in a fragmented and disorganised way, leading to on-going symptoms of PTSD. By telling the story of the traumatic experience from beginning to end, NET can help the individual integrate the traumatic experience into their life story and reduce the intensity of associated symptoms.

NET typically involves 8-12 weekly sessions, each lasting 60-90 minutes.

The therapist works collaboratively with the individual to create a timeline of their life story, starting with the earliest memories and working up to the traumatic event(s). The individual is then guided to tell their story in detail, with the therapist providing support and guidance throughout the process.

NET Techniques

NET involves several techniques that are designed to help the individual tell their story in a safe and supportive environment. These techniques include:

• Chronological Narrative: The individual is guided to tell their life story from beginning to end, including all of the details of the traumatic event(s).
• Externalization of Trauma: The individual is encouraged to externalize the trauma by giving it a name or visual representation, separating it from their sense of self.
• Imagery: The individual is guided to create positive or calming mental images to use as resources during the storytelling process.

During the NET session, the individual will be guided to tell their story in a safe and supportive environment. The therapist will provide support and guidance throughout the process, helping the individual to integrate the traumatic experience into their life story. 

Evidence for Narrative Exposure Therapy for PTSD

NET has been extensively researched and has been shown to be an effective treatment for individuals with PTSD. According to the World Health Organisation, NET is a recommended treatment for PTSD, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Research studies have shown that NET can significantly reduce PTSD symptoms, improve quality of life, and decrease the risk of relapse. 

In addition to its effectiveness, NET is a relatively brief and non-invasive treatment. The structured and goal-oriented nature of NET makes it a popular choice for individuals seeking treatment for PTSD.

Conclusion

Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is an alternative treatment for PTSD that has been shown to be effective in reducing the intensity of traumatic memories and associated symptoms. NET involves telling the story of the traumatic experience from beginning to end in a safe and supportive environment.

If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD, know that you are not alone. Seeking therapy for PTSD can be a challenging step, but it can also be a life-changing one. Our experienced and compassionate therapists are here to support you in your journey towards healing and recovery. With evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), we can help you manage your symptoms, process traumatic memories, and develop healthy coping strategies. Don't let PTSD control your life any longer – reach out to us today to schedule an appointment and start your path to healing.

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