Dr Simon Hatcher on Narrative Exposure Therapy for Complex PTSD

Exploring Narrative Exposure Therapy for PTSD and Complex Trauma

In this episode of The Flex Factor, host Dave Hesidence, associate of Ottawa River Integrative Mental Health and director of the Therapy Research Center at the University of Ottawa, introduces Dr. Simon Hatcher, interim chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Ottawa and a practicing psychiatrist at the Ottawa Hospital. Dr. Hatcher discusses narrative exposure therapy (NET), focusing on its effectiveness in treating complex PTSD and survivors of multiple traumatic events, especially those affected by organized and political violence. The discussion covers the foundations of NET, its application in low-income settings, the importance of restructuring traumatic memories, and practical steps for therapists, including drawing lifelines and processing memories. Real-life examples, patient interactions, and the therapy’s suitability for different populations are also explored.

 

00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor Podcast

00:48 Meet Dr. Simon Hatcher

02:56 Understanding Narrative Exposure Therapy

07:07 The Science Behind PTSD and Memory

10:40 Implementing Narrative Exposure Therapy

13:44 The Lifeline Technique in NET

18:01 Therapist's Role and Techniques in NET

21:08 Final Steps and Reflections in NET

26:44 Legal Applications of Narration

27:05 Treatment Planning and Endings

27:42 Managing Dissociation in NET

28:09 Challenges of Virtual Therapy

29:06 Overview of NET

29:37 Questions and Answers

36:52 Comparing NET and EMDR

40:21 Training and Implementation

50:31 Final Thoughts and Conclusion