How do self-narratives change during psychotherapy?: a review of innovative moments research

Abstract

In the past decade, researching what we refer to as innovative moments (IMs) has produced interesting results with regard to change in self-narratives during psychotherapy. Building upon the concept of “unique outcomes” (White & Epston, 1990) and “exceptions” in therapy (de Shazer, 1991), a coding system was developed for tracking moments of innovation in clients’ narratives throughout the therapy process. In the present article, we review the trajectory of this research, highlighting four main issues. First, we briefly comment on its development and on some of its core theoretical assumptions. Second, we introduce the reader to the basics of the coding system, describing the different types of IMs. Third, we review the main research outcomes, and some preliminary conclusions are drawn with regard to patterns of narrative change. Finally, the practical implications of the findings are discussed. We consequently outline some tips to assist therapists in developing a greater sensitivity to self-narrative change.