How to heal a wounded story

A bibliotherapy model for working with painful narratives

Abstract

This article presents a bibliotherapeutic model for working with wounded stories through writing, utilizing the framework of the picture book How to Heal a Broken Wing by Bob Graham (2008) to guide the healing process through writing. The model emphasizes the importance of narrative construction in promoting emotional well-being and consists of seven stages: 1) Noticing the wounded story, 2) Creating a safe space, 3) Acknowledgment and validation, 4) Compassion and empathy, 5) Expanding and reframing, 6) Fostering hope, and 7) Letting go. These stages, including guided writing techniques and sharing, encourage participants to reflect on and transform painful experiences, gradually shifting from a place of suffering to one of healing, growth, and renewal. The therapeutic benefits of bibliotherapy, such as emotional catharsis, meaning-making, and narrative coherence, are highlighted, illustrating how bibliotherapy can support individuals in reclaiming agency and resilience. This model not only offers a structured approach to healing but also fosters a deeper connection with the self and others, enhancing therapeutic outcomes in individual and group settings.