Narrative Walks—Chris Darmody

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Narrative Walks is a hope-based, depathologising outdoor program that was developed to engage with populations that may not be drawn to conventional methods of therapy. This structured day program encourages participants to explore 15 narrative therapy questions, and to engage in a number of other activities during a 20 kilometre walk through the bush. The program invites different perspectives on problem stories, and offers walking as a narrative metaphor. This paper sets out the steps taken in developing the program with a number of groups and individuals to ensure the program meets the needs of the people for whom it is intended. The paper describes trials undertaken with young men, the group that initially inspired Narrative Walks, and also outlines my hopes for the future development of Narrative Walks as a program transferable to many people and lands.