Narrating the Difference

Abstract

The long-standing interest I have in the politics of therapy acted as the impetus for the development of therapeutic practices which circumvent the potential for an imposition of meaning within therapeutic conversations. This imposition is particularly relevant where individuals believe in a version of life events even though this version undermines their sense of well-being and sometimes their very existence. In these circumstances we can feel stuck between two positions. These positions are reflected by these two questions (Avis, 1985, p. 36):Do I expose these ideas by presenting an alternative version/explanation for life events? IfI don&t do this will I be supporting the ongoing oppression of these people (clients)?If I do expose these ideas, will people (clients) experience me as another agent of control?