Inspired by the work of Dr. Dan Allender, co-founder of The Allender Center & The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology, Allender Theory offers a narrative framework that encourages us to compassionately engage with the parts of our story we’ve previously ignored or viewed with shame & contempt. By utilizing the Allender approach to story work, we will engage areas of heartache with the truth to empower you to move from a place of self-contempt & avoidance to self-compassion & hope. You will learn to attune to both your own & others' stories with greater courage & kindness.
The bible is 70% story. God choose to speak to us in story. Story work emphasizes the power and structure of storytelling to convey meaning and evoke our emotions. This approach prioritizes the elements of a narrative—such as characters, plot, setting, and conflict—to create a cohesive and engaging story. By centering on the narrative, the storyteller can return to a place of harm with their mind, body, and emotions allowing for the reader to be attuned to, seen, and understood which deeply transforms the human heart. In essence, narrative-focused story work unpacks the story so we can get to the truth that sets us free.
To be with Jesus and become more like him requires that we deal with trauma. Stepping into our stories of heartache is the first step to take our wounds seriously and move towards the shalom, thriving, and flourishing plan God has for us. Story work integrates theology and psychology, recognizing that our stories are not isolated but are part of God’s ongoing story of restoration. By exploring personal stories, we will uncover the ways in which your life reflects themes of redemption, grace, and healing found in scripture. We will work together to see your life through the lens of biblical truth, fostering a deeper connection with God and a greater understanding of your own spiritual journey.
Story work invites God’s presence and guidance, trusting Holy Spirit will illuminate the truth and bring about genuine transformation. Holy Spirit is the Great Counselor, and therefore story work aims to allow Holy Spirit to lead and guide each session. We will attune to the Spirit to discern deeper issues and offer wisdom that transcends human understanding. This divine partnership ensures that the thoughts provided are not just based on human knowledge but are enriched by the Spirit’s insight and power. By letting God’s Spirit lead our story work sessions, we create a space where healing and transformation occurs as we align our truest self with God’s will and purpose.
We all experience trauma throughout our lives. Some major life events are clearly traumatizing, but other trauma may be seemingly small distressing events that are often minimized and neglected and yet still have a significant impact. Understanding, recognizing, and responding to the impact of trauma on your life and behavior, enables us to engage your life stories with courage and compassion. This approach helps create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your past traumas and their impact on your present behaviors and relationships. As a result, you will be guided towards healing and transformation, fostering greater self-awareness, resilience, and hope. This trauma-informed framework empowers clients to reclaim their narratives and move towards a more integrated and fulfilling life.
Story work is a wholistic transformative journey that necessitates the engagement of our entire being—mind, body, soul, and spirit, recognizing that each aspect of a person is interconnected and essential for overall well-being. Moreover, transformation involves connecting with the soul, that innately wise part of us that, despite being buried or neglected, still knows our true essence and what it means to be genuinely alive. This integrative and comprehensive approach ensures that counseling is not just about alleviating symptoms but fostering a deeper, more enduring transformation, wholeness, and shalom where nothing is missing and nothing is broken.
© True Story Coaching │ Tori Swenson