Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 23, 2026

Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
The story: a primary spiritual tool. Stories can be a healing power in the dying process
1St. Peter's Hospice, Albany, NY.
Abstract:
Recounting the events of one's life is therapeutic, particularly if the storyteller has the opportunity to share feelings, as well as factual content. Inherent in each person's story is the key to healing. Sensitive listening and dialogue can help dying persons discover connections between their own stories and those in the Scripture. In addition, when a person is in denial regarding a life-threatening illness, dreams can often provide a means to unlocking the unconscious. As Jesus used images from nature and symbols from everyday life, so, too, can care givers use analogies to get to the heart of the matter. Another source of healing is the original story, which can help a patient and family see their situation in a new light. Humor, used appropriately, can be a redemptive gift. Finally, when unfinished business has been completed and issues of forgiveness resolved, there is little left but to celebrate the life of the dying person. The story can thus be therapeutic, diagnostic, a source of healing, a means of fostering reconciliation, and an occasion for celebration.
Related Concept Videos
Kubler Ross's Stages of Dying
In denial, individuals reject the reality of their condition, often thinking, "This isn't true; I feel fine," as a way to protect themselves from emotional distress. Anger...
Techniques of therapeutic communication I: Active Listening, Sharing Observations, Validation, and Using Touch
Therapeutic communication is not the same as social interaction. Social interaction has no goal or purpose and consists of casual information sharing, whereas therapeutic communication has a plan or purpose for the conversation. Therapeutic...
Ethical Dilemmas II
Elements Crucial for Effective Psychotherapy
The Therapeutic Alliance
The therapeutic alliance refers to the relationship between the therapist and the client. The alliance strengthens when the therapist and the client engage in a nurturing, supportive, trusting, empathetic, and respectful relationship, improving therapeutic outcomes. Therapists must monitor this relationship...
Healing I: Introduction
Ethical Issues
Ethical Concerns in Healthcare: