Participant Reflections on Narrative Training Programs in the Indian Context

Abstract

There has been growing interest in the use of narrative therapy in various settings across India. This study sought to understand the benefits of narrative training programs, facilitated by the mental health team at Ummeed Child Development Center located in Mumbai, India; specifically, how program participants are using narrative ideas and practices in their work contexts. Twenty participants, who had completed different forms of long-term narrative training, were engaged in semistructured interviews. Thematic analysis of the data brought forward three themes: Shift in Practice and Philosophy, Shift in Stance as Therapist/Supervisor, and Shift in Personal Lives. Findings reveal that while narrative trainings are emergent in India, the use of narrative ideas and practices has brought encouraging outcomes in diverse work contexts. The study highlights that culturally relevant narrative trainings foster shifts in understanding of counseling, and invite collaboration and agency in therapy, supervision, and personal contexts of participants’ lives.