The Use of Narrative Therapy as a Multicultural Approach to Facilitate the Healing Process of Traumatized Liberians

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the importance of cultural context in treatment strategy choice with Liberian mental health professionals and clients/patients and if a narrative therapy technique was helpful. Using qualitative research methods with a sample of convenience it was hoped that this study would provide evidence of the characteristics of an experience in the context of the subject’s environment. This study was grounded in the belief that endemic cultural differences should be considered when choosing a treatment strategy, and this consideration increases the likelihood that the recipients will find the treatment helpful. The narrative therapy tool, Tree of life was the intervention used. Liberian mental health professionals were trained in the use of this tool; they then implemented it with a chosen client/patient population. Post intervention both professionals and clients/patients were interviewed to garner their perception of the helpfulness and efficacy of use of the intervention. Data from interviews were coded and analyzed according to grounded theory procedures. Study results indicated that the clients/patients found the intervention to be helpful and all participants reported that they would encourage others to participate in a Tree of Life workshop. The mental health professionals reported that this intervention was a good cultural fit and it is an added and useful tool in their therapeutic toolbox. The results of the study indicated that considerations of culture in Nonwestern settings can inform treatment choice to increase likelihood that the intervention will be helpful. Further, listening to the indigenous voices of providers and consumers can provide important information about the usefulness of an intervention.