This program introduces the tenets and practices of narrative-based medicine for those coming to the field with little or no experience. The program includes live lectures, small group work, readings in narrative-based medicine, and exercises in creative and reflective writing. Guest speakers will include accomplished artists/writers and specialists in narrative-based medicine.
Topics
- Session 1 – Introducing Narrative-Based Medicine
An overview of the principles and practices of narrative-based medicine (NBM) and the historical and theoretical background; an outline of what to expect from the program; how to benefit most from this work; introductory activities. - Session 2 – Narrative Craft I: Close Reading and Reflective Writing
Introducing participants to linked methods of close reading and reflective writing through a set of practical exercises, discussion of health-related texts, and group activities. - Session 3 – Strategies for NBM I: Illness Narratives, Ethics, and Accountability
An exploration of the experiences of illness and disability through various storytelling genres, and reading and writing exercises; an exploration of emerging issues in the field such as the ethics of writing about practice, patient consent, narrative advocacy, and trauma- informed NBM. - Session 4 – Narrative Craft II: The Heart of the Story
Prose intensive: a deep dive into character, detail, and the shape of narrative in fiction and memoir; creative and reflective writing activities to develop a personal voice. - Session 5 – Strategies for NBM II: Narrative Practices in Healthcare
The application of NBM in day-to-day clinical practice and healthcare contexts with a focus on improving skills for listening, embodied presence and empathic witnessing. - Session 6 – Narrative Craft III: Beyond Narrative
Examining the nature and uses of poetic language, theatrical dialogue, and the visual arts in the NBM context, with a focus on creative play and discovery. - Session 7 – Strategies for NBM III: NBM Pedagogy and Facilitation Skills
A review of hands-on skills for leading small group NBM sessions with colleagues, trainees, and others; designing close reading and reflective writing activities. - Session 8 – Narrative-Based Medicine and Self-Care; Next Steps
Narrative-based methods to address stress and burnout; conclusion, review, and discussion of resources and opportunities for further learning.
Final assignment due in May
Format
Class Time:
8 sessions – 2.5 hours each
Writing time:
2 shorts assignments; 1 long assignment
Mentorship Meeting:
1 hour meeting
Participation:
Online discussion, peer reviewing, other activities in-between sessions
Total: 39 hours
Winter – Spring 2022
Program Dates & Time
Tuesday Cohort:
January 25th to May 3rd
6:00pm-8:30pm ET
(Every other Tuesday)
- January 25th
- February 8th
- February 22nd
- March 8th
- March 22nd
- April 5th
- April 19th
- May 3rd
Thursday Cohort:
January 27th to May 5th
6:00pm-8:30pm ET
(Every other Thursday)
- January 27th
- February 10th
- February 24th
- March 10th
- March 24th
- April 7th
- April 21st
- May 5th