Storytelling as an intervention in TBI rehabilitation

Storytelling after traumatic brain injury (TBI) is increasingly recognised as a productive tool in survivor-participants' recovery. This research collaboration aims to extend our understanding of storytelling interventions in TBI rehabilitation/recovery

Storytelling after traumatic brain injury (TBI) is increasingly recognised as a productive tool in assisting survivor-participants in their recovery. The objective of this research collaboration is to extend our understanding of storytelling interventions used in TBI rehabilitation/recovery, the elements they include, and what is important for their utility. Our research team includes a storyteller-performer with lived experience of severe TBI, and two academics with a background in brain injury rehabilitation and research. We span 3 different countries and diverse experiences. Our scoping review focused on storytelling interventions which included public sharing of the story. This review found that the rationale for interventions included identity reconstruction, emotional processing, sense-making, and community (re)engagement. Varying levels of specialist materials and facilities were utilised. Most required facilitation by professionals trained in specialist areas such as narrative, art or music therapy. It also suggested an important relationship between storytelling and connecting with others socially and culturally in the context of brain injury related trauma and loss. We are currently looking for opportunities to apply this scoping review into further research.

Further details

Publications

• Candlish, L., Fadyl, J. K., & D’Cruz, K. (2023). Storytelling as an intervention in traumatic brain injury rehabilitation: a scoping review. Disability and rehabilitation, 45(13), 2248-2262.
  DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2022.2084778