I hope you will reflect on stories you have heard, stories you have told, and how these stories have influenced your life, your work, and the lives of those you touch. There is more than one way to tell a story. Stories may be told through writing, through art, through photos, or verbally. Through storytelling, many people gain insight that leads to behavioral change, and improvements in the quality of their lives. In turn, many identify with the characters, which often leads to increased self-disclosure in the therapeutic process, especially for those individuals who have difficulty directly expressing themselves verbally. Adolescents, young adults, and children can engage with thought provoking vignettes. Strengths-based storytelling can be used in a therapeutic way. Storytelling is a vital component of the assessment and intervention process. Everyone has a story to tell, and everyone deserves a chance to tell his or her story. I listen to peoples’ stories about adjusting to disabling conditions, living with memories of abuse or assault, grieving for the loss of loved ones, and learning how to cope with what hand life has dealt them. I hear and process life stories – some joyous and some tragic. An important aspect of both positions is lending voice to peoples’ stories. I also teach about human behavior, disability, and family issues at the university level. Storytelling can be helpful, even therapeutic, for those experiencing difficult experiences or transitions in their lives.Ĭurrently, I counsel children, adolescents, and adults about social and personal issues confronting them. Perhaps most importantly, I learned the importance of the resilience of the human spirit. Because of stories I have learned of my mother’s joy and despair when hearing of her childhood memories, at age nine frolicking in Wick Park with her younger brother, while simultaneously coping with her mother dying from terminal cancer. Because of stories, I know of family misfortune and secrets, and have learned from elders’ indiscretions. I come from a long line of imaginative storytellers who inherited family lore and legend through the art of storytelling.

Some stories are happy, while some stories are sad. They tell stories to teach lessons, to share messages, and to motivate others.

When was the last time you told or heard a good story? Was it happy, sad, or funny? Was it meaningful? What message did the story convey? People have been telling stories throughout history.

Everyone has a story and i can help