Collaborative Therapy Vs Narrative Therapy

I like the concept behind the collaborative and narrative therapies of focusing more on the client’s strengths and abilities. I lean towards the collaborative therapy practices because it seems freer flowing whereas the narrative therapies are more structured. I often find my work with students more in the area of collaborative therapy, working more with facilitating a particular process. Most of the time this is done without a set strategy or outline of how my conversations will develop with them. I also appreciate Harry Goolishian’s quote of, “it is easier to identify what not to do as a therapist than what to do.” It has often been successful for me to ask students how I can help them for example, rather than press the issue of unpleasantness.