Learning from our own narratives

This article explains the rationale behind the NLT method, an approach that uses the power of personal stories and schemes to help people with symptoms of depression or burnout to function again.

By Rob Wilders, 26 November 2023

The meaning of the narrative
The way we think, feel and act is mainly determined by perception and interpretation of experiences and personal events. A story that has a major impact on our lives is called a narrative.

How we look at the world
In the context of the NLT method, a narrative refers to a personal scheme in our memory that we use to understand the world around us. We can think of a scheme as a kind of mental structure on which we filter, judge and interpret future experiences. In other words, it is the lens through which we look at the world.

The meaning of a scheme
Schemes can strongly influence our thoughts, emotions and behaviour, both consciously and unconsciously. They help us react quickly to situations, based on previous experiences. Schemes, in this sense, therefore determine our views, assumptions, beliefs, opinions and values.

Why we function less
However, schemas can also distort reality by making inaccurate interpretations of new events. This can lead to disappointments, sombre thoughts, anxiety or unhealthy tensions in relationships.

Getting stuck in our own stories
Since stories are the building blocks of our schemas, it might be an option to explore these stories. Because if we get stuck in our daily functioning, we might get stuck in our own stories.

A closer look at the NLT method
The NLT method is a research methodology to analyse stories and identify dominant, negative story elements. The method consists of a four-stage cycle.

First of all, we listen carefully to your narrative (NO). We do this independently, in a safe space, without judging, without advising you. However, we do use techniques and interventions to clarify the story. Together with you, we identify the dominant, negative story elements (ID) that obstruct you in your work, daily functioning or in relation to others. We also explore your story to find out whether you can create your own solution-oriented perceptions (CA). The aim is for you to experiment with your self-created solutions (ES) when obstructive, similar situations arise.

Learning from your own stories
So the principle of the NLT method is learning from your own stories and using them to identify dominant, negative story elements and then transforming them into solution-oriented, positive perceptions that allow you to better deal with situations that hinder you is your work, your daily functioning or in your relationship with others. We record the whole process in a narrative report that can be used as a reference book or as a document to inform other caregivers. The latter can contribute to faster and more efficient treatment.