Mutual storytelling is a therapeutic technique used to engage children in storytelling to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a creative and non-threatening way. The process involves both the child and the therapist creating and sharing stories that follow certain guidelines to ensure therapeutic value. Here's a step-by-step outline of how mutual storytelling can be conducted:

1. Introduction:

• Begin by explaining the activity to the child. Let them know that you'll both be creating stories that can be exciting and adventurous.

2. Setting the Scene:

• Encourage the child to use their imagination to come up with a story that is original and not based on things they have seen on television, in movies, or have personally experienced. The goal is to tap into their creativity and inner world.

3. Creating the Story:

• Guide the child to create a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end, which helps structure their thoughts and makes storytelling more coherent and meaningful.

• Ensure the story includes elements of excitement and adventure to keep the child engaged and motivated.

4. Developing a Moral:

• As the story unfolds, help the child weave in a moral or lesson.

• It can be subtle and doesn't need to be explicitly stated, but it should be an underlying theme that brings meaning to the story.

5. Sharing the Story:

• Once the child has shared their story, the therapist can create their own story, mirroring the structure and elements of the child's story but subtly incorporating therapeutic insights and guidance.

• The therapist's story should also include excitement, adventure, a clear structure (beginning, middle, and end), and a moral.

6. Discussion:

• After both stories are shared, engage the child in a discussion about the stories. Ask open-ended questions to explore the themes, characters, and morals presented.

• The discussion helps the child reflect on their story and gain insights into their own thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment.