Over a series of sessions Bernadette records and transcribes a person’s reflections and memories, documenting their life story either for themselves, or as a family keepsake. Times of joy, sorrow, accomplishments achieved, challenges faced, and unexpected life detours, are all set down as the person wishes, preserving their life events in their own words. People are supported to see their strengths and inner resilience over their life’s journey.
The process of sharing one’s story can be a very affirming and uplifting experience. This may result in increased integration of the past and a deeper sense of wholeness and satisfaction with life.
Bernadette uses her listening skills, theoretical narrative experience and counselling skills to help people explore their histories in a self-determined way. Bernadette’s natural empathy and positive regard for people’s experiences helps them to feel comfortable and relaxed so they can reflect in a safe environment. Where someone would like more structure to tell their story, Bernadette will introduce a framework to help them do so.
The process takes approximately ten hours and can be completed at the person’s home or in Bernadette’s private offices. The time can be spread in one or two hour blocks over a number of weeks or at the person’s discretion. All information is confidential. The recorded story is then transcribed, structured and compiled into a booklet with selected photos.