Narrative Psychology & Leadership
Professional Certificate
In partnership with:
Next cohort starts March, 2026, see blow.
This professional certificate program is built on the idea that “stories are science.”
Understanding how stories shape our perceptions, decisions, and relationships is essential to success—especially when leading yourself and others through conflict, from everyday challenges to moments of crisis.
At the heart of it all is one guiding principle: preserving the humanity and dignity of everyone involved.
Discover the Power of Story in Leadership and Life
Drawing from the rich field of narrative psychology—including narrative medicine and narrative therapy—this program combines cutting-edge research with hands-on learning.
You’ll experience firsthand how these approaches can make you more effective in your work and your relationships. Together, we’ll explore the literary arts—texts, images, and film—to deepen empathy, self-compassion, and open-mindedness, while also practicing concrete communication and leadership skills that translate directly to your profession.
Make no mistake—this is far from “soft.”
These evidence-based practices have been applied by professionals across diverse fields: NASA leadership, hostage negotiators, healthcare providers, military personnel, business executives, entrepreneurs, mediators, and attorneys, among many others. Whatever your background, this program will strengthen both your professional abilities and your personal well-being.
Learning to understand and develop your own narrative—your life story—will enhance how you lead, connect, and thrive.
If you’re still reading this, you probably already know this program is for you (really).
And if you feel drawn to it, even without knowing exactly why—that’s the best reason of all to join. You’ll find yourself among others who share your drive to “win” in life while making the world a better place. It’s possible—and you’re already proving it.
Research shows that the practices you’ll engage in foster growth in both professional and personal domains, enhancing:
• Calmness and stress management
• Creativity and innovation
• Critical thinking
• Cognitive flexibility and reappraisal
• Gratitude and optimism
• Hope and purpose
• Humility and empathy
• Open-mindedness
• Comfort with uncertainty and ambiguity
Together, these skills create an upward spiral of resilience and well-being—counteracting burnout, cynicism, imposter syndrome, and other challenges that hold us back.
This is the sign you’ve been waiting for.
Join us for the next cohort—and start rewriting your story.
Spring 2026 Program
Thursday, March 19
Thursday, March 26
Thursday, April 2
[Note: no class on Thursday, April 9]
Thursday, April 16
Thursday, April 23
Thursday, April 30
All times are noon to 2:30pm U.S. eastern standard time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the program cost?
The program cost is $999.00. This does not include the costs of purchasing the required books.
Contact us for a discount for young professionals, newly graduated students, and current students. You must be at least 21 years old to attend.
I work full-time. How much work is there?
The program is designed for working professionals. While there are reading, writing activities, and online posting assignments assigned each week, it is structured to be manageable for people, especially those with busy schedules, in leadership positions, or with limited free time.
We provided each week tips on how to approach the reading and other activities assignments in a way that is practical and can get done.
What goes on during the Zoom sessions?
It is important to complete the assignments prior to the live Zoom session as each session is very interactive where the assignments are discussed. You are required to transmit video during the entire session and you are expected to be an active participant. We have lively and fun discussions while always maintaining a profession and respectful environment.
Certain sessions also include featured speakers. In previous versions this has included NASA leaders, hostage negotiators, medical professionals, and others who have successfully applied these narrative-based practices to thrive in their work and personal lives.
How do I get credit to complete the program and get a certificate?
You must complete all of the required assignments including the reading, writing, and posting by their due dates and attend the live Zoom sessions.
You are able to miss one live Zoom session however if you do, you are required to watch the recording and answer the online discussion forum questions.
If you miss more than one live Zoom session, you will not receive a certificate of completion. There are no exceptions.
Where can I read more on how the program and practices were developed?
You can read the research studies that supported the development of the program as well as other resources that inspired the program and practices here:
Do I have to purchase any materials?
Yes, you are required to purchase two books (the titles will be shared after registering). You are responsible for purchasing the book and providing proof prior to the course starting. The books are not included in the program fee. It is also suggested you purchase a notebook dedicated to this program.
Who teaches the program?
Read more about the program’s creator and lead instructor, Jeff Thompson, PhD, here.
Feedback from Narrative programs and workshops:
"I learned that it's important to take care of our own mental health as health care providers so we can better care for patients.
One important way to avoid burnout is to be able to enjoy the life that is around us and stay focused and connected to our own feelings and other people's feelings.”
"This was an inspirational training."
"I'd love to keep learning this way."
"Jeff was very engaging and made the course extremely fun. He made group participation feel natural and I liked how we were able to ebb and flow through the learning process."
"It challenged me to think in different ways and to reflect more on myself and how that can affect others."
"I learned to have empathy and acknowledge people."
"The presenter was absolutely amazing, I enjoyed the pace of the course and how he kept our attention on him the entire time. It was also enjoyable to be taught by someone who is passionate about creating a difference, and helping us become better professionals."
What they liked the most:
"The writing was inspiring and challenged me to review my goals."
"I appreciate how hands-on the entire workshop was."
"The organization, the flow, and the message! Self-reflection was amazing."
"This was an inspirational training."
"I'd love to keep learning in this way."
"Keep offering such programs!"
What they liked most:
"The writing was inspiring and challenged me to review my goals."
"I appreciate how hands on the entire workshop was."
"The organization, the flow, and the message! Self reflection was amazing."
"Inspiring"
"Enlightening"