Story Options: A Technique for Transforming Narrative Through Playful Emotional Exploration

Abstract

This article introduces Story Options, a technique for collaborative meaning making from client stories whereby a client’s story is imaginatively retold by members of a group. The article invites reflection on how scripts are constructions in the present that are accessible through the stories that clients share and provides a rationale for how working with client stories can alter scripts. The author describes the method along with a brief description of the psychodramatic techniques from which it draws. A case study illustrates the process. The role of play and permissions in creating positive therapeutic outcomes is explored.

Keywords:

• Transactional analysis
• psychodrama
• story
• script
• groups
• improvisation
• emotions
• play
• permissions
• Rehearsals! for Growth

Disclosure Statement

The author declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Aruna Gopakumar

Aruna Gopakumar, Provisional Teaching and Supervising Transactional Analyst (psychotherapy), runs training, supervision, and therapy groups in Bangalore, India. In addition, she leads Navgati, a leadership development firm that she established in 1999 that runs creative, powerful, and unique learning events. Aruna is an engineer from Anna University (1991), a management graduate from IIM-Bangalore (1993), and a Master Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation. She can be reached at L-111, 9^th B Main, Sector XI, Jeevan Bima Nagar, Bangalore - 560075, India; email: [email protected].