Rosalyn Harry, a registered clinical counsellor from Vancouver, practises a creative technique called ­photonovella, which uses photographic images as a starting point for what she calls "narrative therapy." Narrative therapy, or the telling of one's life story in a counselling setting, can be used to treat ­clients suffering a variety of emotional and ­psychological ­issues.

Photonovella as a counselling technique begins with the client recognizing the particular feelings to be explored and then going out and taking pictures that they feel represent these feelings or "speak to them emotionally." Rosalyn says this could be anything from exploring "isolation, connectedness with other people, or simply taking photos that represent a happy or sad day."

After taking the photos, the client then chooses five or so to discuss with Rosalyn during a counselling session. Rosalyn states that this technique is especially useful with people who have an artistic inclination, or those who enjoy working on projects as it "gives the client autonomy and provides a sense of purpose in their life."

Photonovella is effective as it offers another "language" in which to express oneself or an emotional experience, and the photographs are used as "a starting point for a conversation, a vehicle to help them express themselves in a counselling situation."
Rosalyn Harry, Serenity Counselling, www.serenitycounselling.ca, (604) 569-3212

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