The Art of Narrative Psychiatry by SuEllen Hamkins
In this video, SuEllen Hamkins presents her approach to narrative psychiatry:
‘A cutting-edge approach, narrative psychiatry brings together narrative and biological understandings of human suffering and well-being. Rather than focusing only on finding the source of the problem, narrative psychiatry also focuses on finding sources of strength and meaning. The result is compassionate, powerful healing.
Narrative psychiatry begins with compassionate connection with those who consult with us, understanding that we live our lives in relationships and connect with one another through the stories we tell. It relishes discovering untold but inspiring stories of a person’s resiliency and skill in resisting mental health challenges while exposing and dismantling discourses that fuel problems. It examines what the doctor’s kit of psychiatry has to offer in light of the values and preferences of the person seeking consultation, authorising the patient as the arbiter of what is helpful and what is not. Honouring the person’s own values and perspectives, as opposed to authoritatively imposing the doctor’s view of things, is a deeply respectful and empathic way to practice.
This video focuses on three key elements of narrative psychiatry: Creating a compassionate, emotionally attuned therapeutic relationship, cultivating and documenting narratives of strength and meaning in initial psychiatric consultations, and bringing narrative approaches to psychopharmacology.’
We hope you enjoy the presentation.
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See SuEllen’s new book:
The Art of Narrative Psychiatry
