Reclaiming Your Narrative

Trauma often steals our sense of agency. It makes us feel like things happen to us, not with us. Part of rebuilding self-esteem involves reclaiming our story—not rewriting history, but recognizing that we have the power to choose how we frame and understand our past.

Narrative therapy emphasizes the idea that we are the authors of our own lives. While we cannot always control what happened, we can control how we make meaning of it. This blog explores the process of reclaiming your narrative by recognizing moments of strength, resilience, and survival that may have been overshadowed by pain. It involves identifying the dominant story you’ve been telling yourself (e.g., "I’m weak," "I’m broken") and actively working to create a more empowered narrative (e.g., "I survived," "I’m healing").

One way to start this work is through therapeutic writing. Journaling your experiences—not just what happened, but how you felt, how you coped, and what you’ve learned—can help externalize pain and bring clarity. Writing allows you to process trauma in a safe and private way, giving voice to parts of you that may have been silenced.

At Catharsis Psychology and Psychotherapy, we support clients in increasing their self-esteem and self-compassion.

Storytelling, whether shared with a trusted therapist, group, or audience, also has a profound impact. When others witness our truth with empathy, it reinforces that our story matters and that we are not alone. Reclaiming your narrative is not about denying the past—it’s about owning it and moving forward with intention and agency. It’s a key step in building self-worth because it affirms that your voice matters, your life has value, and your future can be shaped by your own hands.

At Catharsis Psychology and Psychotherapy, we support clients in increasing their self-esteem and self-compassion.