Mental Matters

Linda van Duuren Narrative Therapy Pinelands

Description

Linda van Duuren – Narrative Therapy in Pinelands

Shaping Stories, Transforming Lives

The stories we tell about ourselves shape the way we see the world and our place in it. Some narratives empower us, while others hold us back. Through Narrative Therapy, I work with individuals, families, educators, and organisations to help them reclaim their own stories and create more meaningful, fulfilling lives.

With over 30 years of experience working with children, adults, and families, my approach is grounded in Narrative Therapy principles, which focus on separating people from their problems and rewriting limiting narratives into ones that support growth and resilience.

About Linda van Duuren

Background and Qualifications

I began my career as a Primary School Teacher and Remedial Therapist, gaining first-hand experience of the challenges faced by children, parents, and educators. In 2002, I completed my master’s degree specialising in Narrative Therapy, deepening my ability to help individuals, families, and organisations rewrite their personal and professional stories.

Beyond my private practice, I also consult with schools and non-profit organisations, supporting leadership and personal development through a Narrative Therapy lens.

Why I Do This Work

I am passionate about helping people of all ages reject second-rate descriptions of themselves and uncover stronger, richer narratives to guide their lives. Narrative Therapy has the power to reframe challenges, promote resilience, and open up new possibilities, and I am dedicated to sharing these tools with my clients.

Services

Individual and Family Counselling

I offer in-person and online Narrative Therapy sessions for:

  • Children and young people struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, or life transitions

  • Parents seeking a Narrative Therapy approach to parenting

  • Families looking to improve communication and understanding

  • Individuals wanting to reshape the stories they tell about themselves

Wellness ‘Six-Pack’ Coaching for Adults

A structured series of six coaching conversations designed to:

  • Identify limiting narratives and reframe them into more empowering perspectives

  • Improve mental and emotional wellbeing

  • Strengthen personal resilience and self-awareness

Teacher ‘Six-Pack’ Coaching

Designed for educators who want to integrate Narrative Thinking into their work with children and young people. This programme helps teachers:

  • Understand how narratives shape learning and behaviour

  • Support students in building confidence and resilience

  • Foster a more empowering classroom environment

Parenting ‘Six-Pack’ Coaching

A six-session coaching process for parents looking to:

  • Develop a Narrative approach to parenting

  • Improve their relationship with their children

  • Understand how family narratives impact child development

Teenager ‘Six-Pack’ Coaching

Teenagers today face a complex world, and narratives about self-worth, identity, and belonging play a major role in how they navigate it. This coaching programme helps teens:

  • Recognise and challenge unhelpful narratives

  • Develop a stronger sense of self

  • Build confidence in facing real-world challenges

Leadership Mentoring

I provide consulting and mentoring for school leaders, educators, and organisational heads to help them:

  • Integrate Narrative Therapy principles into leadership

  • Support staff and students in developing positive narratives

  • Foster an organisational culture that values personal and professional growth

Narrative Supervision, Teaching & Coaching

For professionals—including counsellors, occupational therapists (OTs), speech and language therapists (SALT), and other practitioners—who want to:

  • Develop practical Narrative Therapy skills

  • Enhance their therapeutic or educational practice

  • Build a Narrative ethos within their professional environment

Shaping Your Story for a Better Future

Narrative Therapy is about more than just talking—it’s about transforming the way we see ourselves and our experiences. By working together, we can rewrite limiting stories and develop narratives that promote strength, growth, and empowerment.

If you’re looking for a fresh perspective, greater resilience, or a new way to approach personal or professional challenges, I’d love to support you on your journey. Your story is yours to shape—let’s make it one that works for you.

Contact Information

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