How Curiosity Supports Growth : Therapy Questions We Love (Part 1)
At Insight Mental Health Counselling, we believe that the questions we ask in therapy can be just as powerful as the stories we tell.
In narrative therapy, questions aren’t just about gathering information—they’re about opening doors. They invite reflection, connection, and growth.
Whether someone is looking for mental health therapy in Halifax for anxiety, depression, burnout, identity issues, or relationship changes, a narrative therapist can help uncover meaning and strength in your story.
From time to time, we share some of our favourite narrative therapy questions——ones that have sparked therapeutic conversations and helped our clients reconnect with their values, knowledge and skills that help to gain clarity and confidence in navigating life’s challenges.
“As narrative therapists, we really, really love asking curious questions.” – Jules Smith, RCT, Halifax Therapist
Watch us chat about our favourite questions in Part 1 of our Therapy Questions We Love: How does curiosity support growth?
Question #1
🌱 “Is there someone in your life who really saw you, supported you, or made an impact?”
This question invites people to reflect on relationships that mattered—especially ones that may have gone unacknowledged. Many clients remember a teacher, coach, neighbour, or chosen family member who acknowledged them in meaningful ways.
Revisiting these moments reminds us: even in our hardest times, we were seen and valued.
“Having conversations about remembering a time in their life when somebody did recognize their value, and strengths can just feel warm and make them feel supported and remind them that there are people that care.” – Jane Donovan, RCT, Halifax Therapist
This question often comes up when clients feel that they have never had family support. It can help them recognize the positive impact that others have had on their life. It can also help them recognize the impact that they have had on others. This can help them recall a powerful connection with supportive people that can change their view of themselves and their life.
“When we’re feeling low, if we can connect to the feelings that we had at that time, it can lift our spirits and make us feel good about ourselves in the moment.” – Jane Donovan, RCT, Halifax Therapist
Question #2
🌿 “What have you learned from this experience?”
This question gently invites people to notice the growth that’s already taken place—even in painful or uncertain times.
“A lot of times clients that I see are feeling really stuck, and they feel like there’s no change or movement in their life. By asking this question, it helps them recognize that there is movement happening.” – Jules Smith, RCT, Halifax Therapist
It’s not about toxic positivity. It’s about discovering how we’ve coped, changed, or developed knowledge that help a client in their life. Clients often begin to see themselves as more resilient, wise, and capable than they realized.
“It’s not about telling clients what I think they should do—it’s about helping them reflect on what they’re learning for themselves. That way, the conversation stays centered on their experience, their values, and what really matters to them.”- Jules Smith, RCT, Halifax Therapist
This is a key question for recognizing and building skills that can helps client tackle current problems in their lives.
💬 Why These Questions Matter
In narrative therapy, the therapist isn’t the expert on your life—you are.
“Letting people evaluate their own lives is always so much more powerful than trying to step in in any way.” – Jane Donovan, RCT, Halifax Therapist
Our role as mental health therapists in Halifax is to walk beside you, asking questions that help you explore your values, relationships, and skills and knowledge that can help you navigate life’s challenges. The right question at the right time can be a powerful tool for understanding and growth.
🌟 Final Thoughts: Therapy That Helps You Explore Your Story
Narrative therapy is about remembering who you are, honouring where you’ve been, and shaping where you’re going in a way that feels right for you!
Ready to take the next step? Connect with us today for compassionate and professional mental health therapy in Halifax.
Resources Mentioned and Useful Links:
Learn more about narrative therapy: Explore narrative therapy and its foundational principles.
Meet Our Team: Connect with our Registered Counselling Therapists and find the right fit for you.
About Us: Discover Insight Mental Health Counselling and how we can help.
