The Six Part Story Method: A Narrative Approach to Understanding and Healing
What is the Six Part Story Method?
The Six Part Story Method (6PSM) is a powerful therapeutic tool that can be effectively delivered virtually, making it accessible to a wide range of children and young people.
With just a pencil, a piece of paper divided into six sections, and an internet connection, the Loom Psychology team guides children and young people through this creative process. This format ensures minimal preparation for children and young people while providing a rich opportunity for self-exploration and understanding.
Originally developed by therapists Mooli Lahad and Ofra Ayalon, 6PSM builds on the work of Marie Louise von Franz, a Jungian analyst who explored the collective unconscious through the lens of storytelling. The method takes six essential elements of stories—main character, task, obstacles, helpful factors, turning point, and consequences—and invites individuals to create a fictional narrative that mirrors their own patterns of relating to the world.
How Does the Six Part Story Method Work?
The process is straightforward, yet rich in therapeutic potential. Individuals are guided to craft a story based on six prompts:
1. Main Character and Setting: Who is the protagonist, and where is the story set?
2. Task: What mission or goal is the character trying to achieve?
3. Obstacles: What challenges or barriers do they face?
4. Helpful Factors: What supports or resources assist them along the way?
5. Main Action/Turning Point: How does the character respond to the challenges?
6. Consequences: What happens as a result, and how does the story end?
In the virtual space we use the method of drawing the story on a piece of paper in each of 6 spaces. The narrative remains fictional, allowing a safe distance for individuals to reflect on their own experiences indirectly.
What Can You Expect to See?
Through the 6PSM, recurring themes and personal patterns often emerge. Common themes include:
• Interpersonal Factors: Friendship, loneliness, or family dynamics.
• Personal Traits: Resilience, empathy, humour, or problem-solving skills.
The creative aspect of storytelling bypasses traditional defences, offering insights into the participant’s coping mechanisms and emotional landscape.
Why Is the Six Part Story Method Useful?
1. Encourages Self-Expression: Stories offer a safe space for individuals to project feelings and experiences that may be difficult to articulate directly.
2. Builds Rapport: The collaborative and playful nature of the activity fosters trust and connection.
3. Solution-Focused: By exploring strengths and coping strategies, it promotes problem-solving and personal growth.
4. Inclusive and Adaptable: The method is sensitive to diverse needs, including literacy challenges or English as an additional language (EAL).
5. Accessible for Children and Young People: The structured yet open-ended format gives them control, time to think, and a creative way to express themselves.
Reflection and Next Steps
After completing the activity, reflection is key. Individuals are encouraged to consider:
• What the story reveals about themselves.
• How they might use these insights in their lives.
• Who else might benefit from this approach.
The metaphors and themes within the story often echo through subsequent sessions, serving as rich, layered tools for communication and healing.
Want to Learn More About the Six Part Story Method?
The Six Part Story Method, delivered virtually by Loom Psychology, offers a structured, engaging approach to understanding coping strategies and building self-awareness. If you’d like to explore how this method could be applied to support children and young people, contact Dr Reem Ameri at Loom Psychology. Her expertise ensures sessions are both accessible and impactful.
Reem is currently delivering an online training session on how to deliver the Six Part Story Method virtually. While this session is now full, make sure to follow Reem on LinkedIn to stay updated about future training opportunities: Dr Reem Ameri on LinkedIn.
📧 reem.ameri@loompsychology.co.uk
📞 0113 524 0092