Therapy with the Conversational Model is based upon an understanding of the development of self. William James’ understanding of the stream of consciousness as providing a basis for an experience of self is central to this viewpoint. An experience of self includes the capacity to think about one’s own experience and has an essential duality. Under conditions of trauma this sense of self collapses. People whose lives have been disrupted by trauma require a creative response from therapists and therapy needs to be understood not only in terms of resolving trauma but also in terms of the enhancement and strengthening of self.