What is Story Work?
A Compassionate, Narrative-Based Approach to Healing Past Wounds and Trauma
A Proven Framework for Experiencing Healing, Freedom, and Hope
Story Work, or Narrative Focused Trauma Care (NFTC), is a way to bring together the strengths of both theology and psychology, embracing the whole person—mind, body, and soul—in a uniquely comprehensive approach. It adapts to explore core narratives of relationships, family dynamics, sexual development, and experiences of abuse, addressing both personal and collective trauma.
NFTC builds on the foundational, lifelong work of Dr. Dan Allender in the realm of trauma and abuse recovery and his deep conviction that healing is not only possible, but is central to the gospel story unfolding within and around us.
Core to Story Work is the belief that the journey of healing invites us to move from a place of cursing (contempt, shame, ambivalence) to one of blessing (compassion, goodness, delight). This occurs through telling our stories with truth and integrity as we grieve our wounds and offer blessing to the parts of us still bound to the cursed story.
As we share our story with trusted others who are able to name both our deep woundedness and our deep goodness, we grow a deeper capacity to know and live into our calling and engage in life-giving relationships with God and others.
Why Your Past Affects Your Present (And Your Future)
God designed us to thrive in community. We are built for relationships, and it is in our DNA to create and love.
Unfortunately, the brokenness of our world has fractured our individual and collective hope, leaving us with heartache, rupture, and loss. Many of us have experienced pain and disconnection within our family of origin—often manifesting as trauma.
These early experiences shape who we are and how we relate to the world, influencing our relationships and overall well-being.
Since none of us are perfect, we each experience harm and loss in unique ways. Trauma is complex, our stories are distinct, and our bodies and minds recognize this. We carry the impact of these experiences daily, affecting our ability to live fully as God designed us to be.
Someone once said, “We are built from moments of harm.” Thankfully, it’s not the end of the story.
How Story Work Empowers Us to Live from a Place of Hope, Healing, and Beauty
How do we start to live and respond differently? By telling our stories, naming the hurt, and experiencing attunement and containment in the process.
Science shows that by recalling our stories, we help our brains heal by reconnecting neurons that were once fragmented.
Just as a broken bone heals when it’s reset, our souls are transformed for the better. As our brains heal, our bodies gradually follow, leading us toward greater health. In this healing, we begin to fully grasp God’s vision for our lives.
Testimonies of Transformation
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“Andrew’s unique insight and his attention to the not-so-obvious will help you tremendously in understanding how your story has impacted your past and present. Exploring your story is an investment you will greatly benefit from.”
-Scott Gibson, MSW, LCSW, Founder, Scott Gibson Counseling
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“By working with Andrew, I’ve gained valuable perspective and tools that will positively impact my present and future. He saw into the hidden places of my story that most overlook and made connections that brought freedom and rest to areas where I had long felt confusion and pain. I’d encourage anyone interested in this work to consider working with him.”
-1-on-1 Story Work Client
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“When sitting with others in their stories, Andrew brings both his heart and creative presence, creating space for goodness and care. He fights for freedom and love with power and kindness for those whose stories he tends.”
-Gwen St. John, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Allender Center Teacher
What Story Work Looks Like
Guided by a trained, compassionate facilitator in a group or one-on-one setting, you’ll learn how your past stories of harm are crucial to freeing yourself from the impact of trauma and living fully into who you were created to be.
The process includes exploring the experiences that shaped you through writing, reflecting, and intentional conversation.
Have more questions about Story Work?
Check out our FAQ page or send us your questions.
Our Offerings
Story Groups
In this 7-week small group experience, you'll explore your story in community and learn tools for engaging in others' stories.
1:1 Story Work
Dive deeper into the themes and pivotal experiences in your life through a series of 1-on-1 sessions with a trained, compassionate facilitator.
Story Workshops
Designed for businesses, nonprofits, and churches, this half-day workshop will empower your team members to engage in their stories and experience greater unity and empathy.