“A Turbo Form of Therapy”: A Co-produced Investigation of Lived Experience Storytelling

Building on a growing body of evidence addressing the impact of hearing lived experience stories, this study explored the experiences of individuals sharing stories at live storytelling events. The central aim was to better understand speakers’ experiences and to consider what, if any, impact taking part in such events might have on their lives. The project benefited from a co-produced study design, following an interpretative phenomenological analysis framework. Eight participants shared their experiences in semi-structured interviews. Three superordinate themes were developed to explain their experiences: ‘connecting with a sense of primal humanity’, ‘a path to cathartic transformation’, and ‘the fires of purpose’ . These themes outlined experiences of connection with others, unburdening from shame, transforming sense of self, reframing experiences, and connecting with a newfound sense of purpose. Parallels are drawn with similar research, suggesting how this paper can extend current understanding of the experience and impact of storytelling. This includes identifying links between storytelling and trauma therapies, with conclusions drawn about storytelling events’ potential to kick-start post-traumatic growth for speakers. This prompts consideration of the potential that community programmes and partnerships might have for affecting positive change.