STAIR Narrative Therapy was developed to address the needs of trauma-exposed individuals to face and better understand their past (Narrative Therapy), as well as to improve day-to-day functioning (STAIR) with a focus on increasing emotion regulation and social and interpersonal skills. Clients find that STAIR work is engaging and enhances their ability to more readily engage in and benefit from the emotionally intensive work of revisiting their experiences of trauma. 

There are currently three randomized controlled trials supporting the efficacy of the combination treatment--STAIR Narrative Therapy. The standalone STAIR protocol has been used in group and individual therapy to strengthen relational and emotional competencies. STAIR is an effective transdiagnostic treatment that addresses emotional and social difficulties among trauma-exposed populations who experience the frequently comorbid symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use.  

STAIR Narrative Therapy (SNT) was created in response to the observed needs of individuals who had experienced chronic and early life (i.e., developmental) trauma. As a result of chronic trauma, these individuals experience an “interrupted life” and may not have experienced the opportunity to meet socio-emotional developmental goals, such as gaining the ability to identify emotions in themselves and others and navigating the creation and maintenance of healthy boundaries. The important goal of improvement in emotional and social skills and well-being is relevant to many trauma populations. STAIR and SNT have proven effective for individuals who experience a variety of trauma experiences, including but not limited to sexual assault, domestic violence, military/combat experience, refugee status, sexual and gender minority populations, and 9/11 survivors. 

Clinicians and consumers can also utilize the STAIR Coach app to support individual or group treatment. The STAIR Coach is free and downloadable from the app store.

Click here to explore the features of the app.