Narrative and Storytelling

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Narrative and Storytelling (XAT511)

Applications Open: To be confirmed

Applications Close: To be confirmed

Next Available Intake: To be confirmed

Course Types: To be confirmed

Language: English

Duration: 6 months

Fees: To be confirmed

Area of Interest: Social Services

Schemes: To be confirmed

Funding: To be confirmed

School/Department: S R Nathan School of Human Development

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Synopsis

XAT511 offers an immersive exploration into the therapeutic applications of narratives and storytelling, employing role-play, drama, and writing as transformative tools. This course is designed for those in therapeutic professions, as well as educators and artists interested in the intersection of creativity and psychological well-being. It equips participants with the skills to integrate expressive modalities into therapeutic practices, enhancing emotional expression, personal insight, and healing. Participants will learn to guide others in forming and expressing narratives in ways that foster healing and growth, mastering a range of creative practices from structured storytelling to spontaneous role-play and reflective writing. Through this course, participants will develop an understanding of how various forms of creative techniques can be effectively utilized in therapeutic storytelling contexts, aiming to enhance empathy, connection, and emotional recovery.

Level: 5
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: EVERY JAN

Topics

Role of narratives and storytelling in healing
Embodied narratives in therapeutic storytelling
Applying art-related techniques such as role-play (or drama) and writing to storytelling
The use of metaphors and symbolism
Psychological distancing in therapeutic storytelling
The role of rituals in therapeutic stories
Scaffolding and laddering
Running therapeutic sessions
Incorporating additional art modalities
Reflective practices and therapeutic outcomes
Creating and maintaining therapeutic space
Cultural sensitivity and ethical considerations

Learning Outcome

A. Knowledge & Understanding

Identify the therapeutic potential of narratives and storytelling in therapy, using drama, writing, or other creative arts strategies to promote emotional healing and personal growth.

Apply story-telling or narrative techniques to reshape personal and collective narratives.

Analyze the role of symbolic representation and metaphor in storytelling, drama/role-play, and writing to address complex emotional experiences.

B. Key Skills

Explore the use of therapeutic story-telling and narration to facilitate self-awareness in clients.

Design storytelling using role-play or other interventions that incorporate ethical and culturally sensitive practices.

Create safe spaces effectively for exploring emotions and experiences, fostering therapeutic relationships