Therapeutic Lifestory Work
Sensitive, structured lifestory work helping children make sense of their past, find coherence in their narrative, and build a secure sense of identity and self.
What Therapeutic Lifestory Work Is
Helping children understand their own story
Every child has a story. For children who have experienced separation, loss, neglect, or placement in care, that story is often fragmented, confusing, or filled with unanswered questions. Therapeutic lifestory work creates a safe, supported space for children to piece that story together — honestly, carefully, and at their own pace.
At HAPii, lifestory work is therapeutic, not simply documentary. It is not just about creating a book of photographs and facts — it is about helping a child develop a coherent, compassionate narrative of their own life that supports their identity, emotional wellbeing, and capacity for connection.
This work is appropriate when a child:
- Has experienced separation, removal, or placement in care
- Is being adopted or has been adopted
- Has gaps or confusion about their early life or family history
- Is asking questions about their birth family or origins
- Is struggling with identity, belonging, or self-worth
- Is preparing for a significant transition or leaving care
- Has experienced multiple placements or disruption
How We Work
Therapeutic, not just biographical
HAPii's approach goes beyond recording events. We help children process the feelings connected to their story — grief, confusion, loyalty conflicts, shame — in a contained and compassionate way, using play, creative materials, and narrative techniques suited to their age and stage.
Honest and age-appropriate
Children deserve truth — told carefully, in language they can hold. We work with carers, parents, and professionals to ensure the child receives accurate, developmentally appropriate information about their history, without being overwhelmed or left to fill gaps with self-blame.
Strengths and identity-focused
Lifestory work at HAPii is not only about what happened to a child — it is equally about who they are. We explore heritage, culture, talents, relationships, and moments of joy alongside the harder parts of a child's history, building a full and affirming sense of self.
What the Work Can Produce
A lifestory book
A personalised, child-centred document capturing the child's history, family connections, key people, and important memories — created with and for the child.
A therapeutic narrative
A coherent, compassionate account of the child's life that helps them make sense of what happened and why, without blame or shame.
Carer guidance
Practical guidance for carers and parents on how to hold lifestory conversations with the child after the work concludes — sustaining what has been built.
A professional summary
Where required, a written summary for the professional network outlining the therapeutic process, key themes, and recommendations for ongoing support.
Working with Carers and Professionals
Carer involvement and preparation
Lifestory work can stir up powerful feelings for children — and for the adults around them. HAPii prepares and supports carers and parents throughout the process, ensuring they are equipped to hold conversations that arise at home and to respond with sensitivity and confidence.
Collaboration with the professional network
Effective lifestory work requires accurate information about the child's history. HAPii works in close collaboration with social workers, Tusla, and other professionals to gather what is known, identify what is missing, and ensure the child's story is told as fully and honestly as possible.
Fees & Referral
Fees
Fees are agreed on a case-by-case basis, reflecting the scope and complexity of the child's history, the number of sessions required, and whether a written lifestory book or professional summary is included.
An initial consultation will clarify the proposed approach, timeline, and costs before work begins.
Payment terms:
- 50% deposit on agreement of plan
- Balance invoiced on completion
- Invoices and receipts provided
Referral Process
- Complete and return the HAPii Referral Form.
- HAPii acknowledges receipt within 2 working days and confirms suitability and availability.
- An initial consultation is arranged to discuss the child's history, needs, and goals.
- A proposed plan and fee structure is agreed before work begins.
Required documentation:
- Case background summary
- Signed consents
- Existing reports and relevant records
- Any available information about the child's early history
Ready to make a referral?
Get in touch and explore how HAPii's Therapeutic Lifestory Work can support your child, family, or case.