Life Story work

Life story work is a process of helping an individual to explore, record and share their personal history. It is used to help children and young people make sense of their experiences and develop a sense of identity and purpose.

The process of life story work typically involves a series of one-on-one sessions with a trained professional, during which the child or young person’s history is put into a chronological order so the child and young person can develop a coherent narrative about their experiences and the reasons behind the decisions that were made by adults in their care history. The child of young person is encouraged to talk about their life experiences, memories, and significant events. The professional may use prompts, such as photographs or other visual aids, to help the person remember and organize their thoughts and memories.

The goal of life story work is to help the person gain a deeper understanding of their own life, including the challenges they have faced, the accomplishments they have achieved, and the relationships they have formed. It can also be a way for individuals to leave a record of their life for future generations, and to share their wisdom and insights with others.

Life story work has been used with a wide range of populations, including children in foster care and adoption, older adults, and individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses. It can be a valuable tool for promoting healing, building resilience, and enhancing overall well-being.