Narrative Therapy (NT) aims to separate the person from past problems, and through its principles of externalisation, identifying and neutralising socially constructed messages, it promotes the development of positive self-narratives. Therefore, for those living with HIV, NT is powerful, particularly for demolishing disempowering self-narratives, including those on HIV stigma /internalised stigma. Furthermore, for sexual minority groups, NT is beneficial, as it allows them to build empowering narratives around their gender identity and to develop a sense of connectedness with their peers. Despite this, there is little evidence on the effectiveness of NT to support individuals who live with the intersection of belonging to a gender minority group and living with HIV. The proposed study is set in this context, and it aims to provide, through a case study, the therapeutic benefits for a gay man living with HIV of taking part in the Tree of Life (ToL), a NT group intervention.
A case study design methodology was adopted by combining the person's individual pre- and post-interviews, his creative work, and the facilitators' notes. The person took part in eight group ToL sessions. The findings are presented to follow the chronological order of the sessions, and to map how the person benefited from the ToL, including in identifying and demolishing internalised HIV stigma and minority stress, and strengthening his resilience and hopes for the future. Additionally, the group interaction acted as a source of social support and an opportunity for members to validate each other's strength and resilience. As such, NT shifts the focus from a deficit-focused model for sexual minority groups living with HIV to one focusing on positive coping, proactive growth, and the development of personal resources. This case study supports the evidence that NT is promising for those living with HIV who belong to sexual minority groups.