Poetry Therapy

Poetry therapy and bibliotherapy are terms used synonymously to describe an intentional process in which language, story, and symbol act as catalysts for psychological health and well-being. Poetry therapy is an interactive process with three essential components: (1) the literature, (2) the trained facilitator, and (3) the client. A trained facilitator selects a poem or other form of written or spoken media to serve as a catalyst and evoke feeling responses for discussion. Literature is either imported (brought in from elsewhere) or exported (brought out of the client through writing). The interactive process helps the individual develop on the emotional, cognitive, and social levels. A poetry therapist works with individuals, families, and groups.

Poetry therapy has a broad range of applications with people of all ages ...