ABSTRACT
This chapter explores suggested techniques and applications of the storied approach. The storied approach to career counselling is a dynamic, interrelated process that is conceptualised as co-construction. Dialogue, counselling skills and constructivist activities are essential tools. Counsellors need to be attentive to language: clients' choice of words, phrases and intonation, as well as non-verbal physical cues. The life roles are revisited in re-constructing and constructing the life story. De-construction opens up space in the story. This is done by looking for exceptions, finding other points of view and exploring one's values and beliefs to better understand motivations and needs. Re-constructing is an ongoing process of taking pieces of information and weaving them into the life story. It is a kaleidoscope of colours that changes, based on perspective. Constructivism is a 'powerful and helpful approach to work with African refugees' by the telling of stories, integrating experiences and identifying concrete assimilation steps that will honour their values.
