GRoup Bibliotherapy
Reading circles are spaces where people gather to read aloud short stories, novels or poems, and share immediate thoughts, reflections and insights invoked by the words on the page. It is slow, purposeful reading that catapults readers to conversations that are invigorating as feelings are explored gently and expansively.
This type of shared reading enhances and deepens a sense of personal wellbeing while fostering meaningful social connection. Research has found regular participation in these groups contributes to improving mood, depressive symptoms and anxiety. These positive effects endure long after the experience.
"We laughed. We discussed intimately what it is to be human in today’s world...I found the whole experience very soul-nurturing" - Nina
Booked in for Healing: Delivering a workshop on the benefits of reading at a medical conference, Melbourne Convention Centre.
Private consultations
As Somerset Maugham declared, "The important thing in a book is the meaning it has for you".
One of the many reasons we read is for emotional guidance and support. The right book can bring consolation or courage; it can awaken forgotten parts of our selves, unlocking wells of creativity and confidence.
Whether it be seeking solace after loss, feeling mid-life angst, or even a desire to reignite a love of reading, a private one-hour consultation of literary counselling is offered. Individual bibliotherapy focuses on exploring each person’s unique relationship to books and reading and how it can be tailored to match each person’s longings and needs. It begins with a preliminary questionnaire which the client completes prior to the session. It is comprised of questions that delve into their reading tastes and habits, as well as personal preoccupations, fears and interests. This is a wonderfully reflective exercise for clients as it invites contemplation of their reading life, and just life in general! The one-hour private consultation that follows is conversational and clients often describe it as both enriching and provoking. Afterwards, a personalised Reading Prescription is composed, of mostly works of fiction, customised according to the themes explored during the consultation and dispensed within a week of the meeting.
"I received an individual session of bibliotherapy as a gift. It was the most exciting gift I've ever had!" - Aneita, CanadaBook a session or just get in touch to discuss your own particular set of needs and how private bibliotherapy can be tailor-made accordingly.