The issue with many current disorder label treatments is that they are focused squarely on the individual – these therapies (like DBT or CBT) primarily focus on coping skills – which are helpful, no doubt – but these same therapeutic modalities fail to get “under the hood.” Skills alone can’t help us get to the *true* heart of the matter: the systemic components of what we view as a society as “disordered behavior.” Many individuals who identify with the symptoms of various mental health disorder labels or have a formal diagnosis find themselves still feeling empty and without a sense of identity, even after completing full treatment programs.


In this episode, we explore the concepts of agency and narrative therapy and how they can be used to treat symptoms of mental health disorder labels. We dive into the technique of externalization, which can help you take control of your life and change negative thought patterns. We also discuss cognitive distortions and how to recognize them. Additionally, we examine the damaging narratives perpetuated in popular mental health discourse, research, and literature and the impact they have on recovery for those who identify with these symptoms. By the end of this episode, you'll have a greater understanding of how narrative therapy can be used to transform negative thought patterns and take control of your life.


Questions answered in this episode:


■ What is a sense of “agency” and why does it matter? 

■ What is narrative therapy? 

■ How is narrative therapy being used to help treat symptoms of borderline personality disorder? (BPD / EUPD) 

■ Externalization: how this technique from narrative therapy can help you take control of your life

■ What’s really behind your negative thinking? (Cognitive distortions and how to recognize them) 

■ The damaging narratives perpetuated in popular BPD discourse, research, and literature and the impact these narratives have on the recovery of individuals who identify with the symptoms 


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Disclaimer: information contained in this podcast episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

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