https://orcid.org/0009-0007-0926-9419
Libby Olson is a program facilitator at a mental health centre in British Columbia, with a background in documentary filmmaking and a bachelor’s degree in motion picture arts. She is passionate about how stories shape our understanding of identity and connection. Transitioning into the field of narrative therapy, she is particularly interested in how creative arts can support identity exploration. Her work focuses on integrating visual storytelling, community collaboration and narrative therapy techniques to create spaces where individuals can re-author their own narratives. Libby is especially dedicated to amplifying queer voices and challenging dominant societal discourses through co-research and innovative therapeutic practices.
This video explores the intersection of narrative therapy, fashion and gender identity through the co-creation of a gender-neutral paper doll dress-up game. Drawing from narrative therapy principles, it challenges the rigid gender norms historically reinforced by fashion games, offering a playful yet meaningful tool for identity exploration. Alongside the game, a community collective document is being created to amplify queer voices, sharing stories of resilience and resistance against dominant societal discourses. By integrating creative mediums into therapeutic practice, I examine how narrative therapy can help individuals shape and express their preferred stories.
Key words: LGBT; trans; queer identity; gender identity; fashion; double-story development; counter-discourse, re-authoring, preferred identity, paper dolls; narrative practice; narrative therapy
Olson, L. (2025). Threads of identity: Using fashion and narrative practice to explore preferred stories within the queer community [Video]. International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work, (1), https://doi.org/10.4320/JVKB9652
Author pronouns: she/her
References
Adams, K., & Keene, M. (2017). Paper dolls: Fragile figures, enduring symbols. McFarland.
Fredman, G. (2013, January 25). Coordinating stories in therapeutic conversations by Glenda Fredman [Video]. Dulwich Centre. https://dulwichcentre.com.au/coordinating-stories-in-therapeutic-conversations-by-glenda-fredman/
Maeder, R. (2020). Queer invitations: Fostering connection between queer young people and their loved ones. International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work, (1), 11–23.
Frisch, B., & Paskin, W. (2018, August 27). The hidden queer history of paper dolls. Slate. https://slate.com/culture/2018/08/the-hidden-gay-history-of-paper-dolls.html
Tilsen, J. (2021). Queering your therapy practice: Queer theory, narrative therapy, and imagining new identities. Routledge.
