The Centered Identity Model reflects 25 years as a clinician, and a lifetime as an adoptee.It's a clinical framework for identity formation in three phases - Survival Mode-Identity Bridge-Empowered Path.
Identity
In this model, identity consists of qualifies and characteristics that underlie how a person experiences themselves and relates to others. It is an ongoing theme, not just a developmental milestone.
The Identity Roadmap guides and orients the clinical work in three phases - Survival Mode-Identity Bridge-Empowered Path.
Narrative
Narratives are defined as the client's meanings of what they've been through and what they've been told.
The Narrative Quilt is an anthology of meanings which expands as the client moves through the Identity Roadmap. A quilt does not have to be cohesive or matching. Each piece has its place. Each quilt is unique.
In this model, narratives don't determine identity, they reflect identity.
1. Survival Mode - operating in an underlying state of damage control or self-preservation to avert further loss, harm or rupture.
It is often marked by strategy vigilance and masking. Success feels like dodging a bullet.
Narratives - Everything is not okay. I have to be indispensable. I should be doing better.
Therapist Role-
1. Locate survival narratives, including dominant narratives, survival narratives, narrative remnants.
2. Identity from scratch, starting with what the client already knows.
Notes - Identity is not simply what comes next. It's the path through survival mode.
2. Identity Bridge - Centering and claiming one's identity.
The client is no longer playing a supporting role in the narratives of others. They are learning to become themselves in narratives that reflect them.
Narratives - I'm learning about myself. My needs matter. I have choices.
3. Empowered Path - moving in alignment with one's identity. Identity in motion.
Narratives - I feel proud. I trust myself. I have a future.
Identity begins to shape how the client moves forward—how they communicate, their relationships, and work. They can envision their evolving future path.