NARRATIVE THERAPY AND CREATIVE WRITING
Writing is a creative practice that offers individuals the opportunity to explore their lives in written form. An act of self-compassion, evaluation, and catharsis, artistic expression through creative practice gives individuals a tool for fostering creativity, and exploring personal experience. As a Registered Professional Counsellor with a strong foundation in writing as a therapeutic tool, I have been guiding clients for 20 years toward a place of reflection, strength, and self-awareness.
These courses are open to all individuals, especially those who have never thought of themselves as writers. Healing happens through expression of the challenges we've endured. It's how we reclaim our power and re-connect with a knowledge and awareness that is unique to who we are.
Together through a personal and caring mentor relationship, writers learn how to craft their stories. Those creatives not interested in group workshops, work privately with me, nurturing their personal practice and working through what emerges from writing toward acceptance, healing and growth.
TIPS FOR NARRATIVE EXPRESSION
Ensure your privacy: Keep your writing in a safe place.
From time to time reread and read aloud what you have written: Rereading material actually allows clients to see how far they’ve come in the process of healing and understanding their experience. Not only does rereading help clients become more closely acquainted with their authentic voices, the vibration of your voice in your body is therapeutic.
Time yourself: Using timed writing exercises (10 min) can help a client to access the unconscious mind and the relevant memories and material there.
Write freely: Hush your inner critic and ignore the urge to edit your work. Therapeutic writing is not meant to be pretty or grammatically correct; it is meant to be real.
Be honest with yourself: Honor your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with the authenticity they deserve. More work gets accomplished when you are your genuine self in your writing.