Narrative Exposure Therapy(NET)
Showing plain-language explanations suitable for anyone.
Overview
Narrative Exposure Therapy is a trauma-focused therapy developed for people with multiple or complex traumatic experiences, including those exposed to war, forced displacement, or repeated interpersonal trauma. It constructs a coherent narrative of the person’s life, integrating traumatic memories into autobiographical context.
What this therapy focuses on
Developing a chronological life narrative while conducting structured exposure to traumatic memories in context, reducing PTSD symptoms and memory fragmentation.
What sessions are usually like
Session length: 90–120 minutes
Frequency: Weekly or twice weekly
Time-limited: Commonly 8–16 sessions
Between-session reflection is light
Session profile
Common uses and suitability
What problems it is commonly used for
Who this therapy may suit best
- People with multiple traumatic events
- Those who want to create a coherent life story
- Individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds
When it may need adapting or may not be suitable
- Active substance dependence without stabilisation
- Severe dissociation without stabilisation protocol
- Requires trauma competence and safeguarding
Where this therapy may not be enough
NET is designed for PTSD with multiple traumas. It is not a general-purpose therapy and requires specialist trauma competence.
What happens in therapy
Lifeline Exercise
Creating a visual timeline of your life using flowers (positive events) and stones (traumatic events) to see your whole story.
Narrative Exposure
Telling the story of each traumatic event in detail, with your therapist’s support, and placing it in the timeline of your life.
Written Testimony
At the end, your complete life narrative is written up as a document that belongs to you.
Evidence Base
Guideline support
Moderate. NET is recognised in several PTSD guidelines for populations with multiple traumas. NICE NG116 recommends trauma-focused therapies, and NET is included in the broader evidence base.
Strength of evidence
Moderate; strongest for PTSD in populations with multiple traumas, including refugees and conflict-affected populations.
Limitations
Most evidence is from specific populations (refugees, conflict-affected). Less evidence for single-incident trauma compared to PE or EMDR. Requires careful safeguarding for asylum-seeking populations.
Evidence claims by condition
NET helps people who have experienced many traumatic events create a coherent life story, reducing PTSD symptoms.
Resources & Printables
For Adults
Grounding Pack
Grounding techniques for managing trauma-related distress.
Narrative Preparation Guide
What to expect from NET and how to prepare.
Stabilisation Plan
A plan for managing distress between sessions.
Sleep and Nightmares Sheet
Practical tips for managing sleep difficulties and nightmares.
Practitioner & Training Notes
Typical professional background
Specialist trauma therapists with NET training.
Recognised training routes
NET training through specialist trauma organisations. Requires supervised practice with complex trauma populations.
Registration considerations
Core professional registration plus trauma-specific competencies.
Source Registry
Link and cite; do not reproduce large sections verbatim.
Last evidence review: January 2026. All sources are verified and checked on a scheduled cadence.