WHAT we do

Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is a brief, trauma-focused intervention that bears witness to the human experience.

Through the co-construction of a coherent lifespan narrative testimony, NET contextualizes the mosaic of positive and negative events unique to each person.

NET was designed for individuals who have experienced multiple, potentially traumatizing event types, such as war, natural disasters and interpersonal violence.  

NET can be beneficial for those who have gone through the highs and lows of the human experience and seek to make meaningful connections within themselves and their communities.

NET practitioners co-construct the detailed narrative testimony of an indivual’s major life events.

Using a lifespan approach, NET begins with life events checklists. Major life events are then symbolized as flowers and stones along a chronological “Lifeline” that maps out the order of the narrative conversation sessions. These sessions focus on the sharing of one event at a time.  Each past event is then documented and read back at the following session. At the final NET session, the collection of documented events is read aloud, signed by witnesses and handed over as a testimony of their lived experience.

Our collective includes a diverse group of trauma-focused artisans, such as psychologists, counselors, social workers, psychiatrists, nurses, birth workers, first responders, teachers, cultural workers, artists, and activists from around the world. 

We are united by our commitment to making good trouble and our passion for healing through compassionate active listening and narratives.

We pride ourselves on being a collective of “naïve misfits” who still believe in the power of compassionate active listening as an antidote to some of the world’s biggest poisons. 

Our hearts are still beating strong with curiosity and empathy as we continue to care deeply about our work and the communities we serve. 

We embrace the discomfort that comes with growth and healing, and we create a space where others can do the same.

If you feel a connection to our mission and values, we invite you to join our community. Get started by sending us an email introduction to you and your work. 

Expect a mix of new ideas, laughter, and tears as we navigate the complexities of the human experience together. You’ll have opportunities to discuss cases, share insights, and support each other through the challenges and triumphs of trauma work. 

Our community is a hodgepodge of supportive solace, genuine connections and meaningful conversations. 

Peruse the scientific literature on NET:
Literature list

Get the manual:
Book: Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) For Survivors of Traumatic Stress

Watch open source NET lectures from the originators at:
Narrative Exposure Therapy | Home of NET Institute

We at NET.Collect offer resources, workshops, and continued training and supervision for those interested in deepening their understanding of NET.

Inquire directly at hello@netcollect.org 

There are specific prerequisites are required to join our community. We welcome anyone who shares our passion for using narratives to heal trauma, whether you’re a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer.

Yes! 

We offer beginner and advanced workshops as well as supervision in NET- online or in person.

Email us to customize the training and supervision we offer to you and your group.

We provide a supportive environment where members can share their experiences, seek advice, and offer mutual support. Our community thrives on collaboration and empathy, ensuring that no one faces their challenges alone.

The NET symbols serve as tangible representations for the various experiences in a person’s life that run the gambit from joy, pride, love and connection to fear, shame, guilt & loss.

As meaningful as it is, we recognize that working with trauma can be a heavy burden and take its toll on our well being and relationships. 

Our community offers regular opportunities for peer support and professional development to help members navigate burnout.

The enduring sting of trauma is often maintained by shame, silence and isolation. 

The process of both sharing our experiences and feeling understood in return is a powerful path for healing and reconnecting with ourselves and our communities.

There are many ways to contribute, whether by sharing your expertise, offering peer support, participating in discussions, or simply being an active member of our community. Every contribution helps us grow and strengthen our collective impact.