Reading and Writing the Self

Bringing biblio/poetry therapy into university spaces

Abstract

This report offers reflections and insights based on our collaborative experience of introducing and delivering a ‘staff and student wellbeing’ programme of bibliotherapy and writing for wellbeing workshops at our university. These include monthly reading workshops using self-help texts, and monthly writing workshops which use a blend of approaches from therapeutic journaling and poetry therapy practice. Our report offers examples of the kind of workshops offered, and some broader context around the wellbeing initiative at our university. We reflect also on the benefits and challenges of inviting people to talk and/or write about the self in the context of the output-driven environment of Higher Education in the UK. Whilst our project centres on personal development and the non-clinical practice of bibliotherapy/writing for wellbeing, we also share our personal experiences of the therapeutic value of ‘writing the self’, and how these inform our practice. Finally, we look towards the next phase of developing and enhancing the project, alongside student interns.