Restorying the Illness Experience in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

The authors describe multiple sclerosis (MS) and the emotional distress it induces in patients and their families. They present a framework for conceptualizing the impact of chronic illness on patients and their families and suggest approaches that could be used in counseling these clients. Several modalities for helping MS patients and their families find meaning in their chronic illness are then described. These include narrative therapy, restorying techniques, and cognitive restructuring.