What is Poetry Therapy?

Poetry therapy is a gentle yet powerful approach to personal growth and self-discovery that uses poems, reflective writing, and purposeful language as tools for transformation. Unlike traditional poetry classes that focus on craft and technique, poetry therapy invites you to experience poems as doorways to your own inner wisdom. The expressive writing involved in Poetry Therapy allows you to return to your essential, authentic voice and find the insights and wisdom you seek. Drawing on the ancient healing power of words, Poetry Therapy offers a creative, self-led, truly unique path to wellbeing and personal growth.

How It Works

In our sessions we engage with carefully selected poems that serve as bridges to your own experience. This isn't about analysing poetry – it's about allowing poetry to help you analyze life. We also use writing prompts to bring forward the "truth waiting to be told in you- without the expectation that anything you write needs to be shared. Of course, there is always the invitation to express aloud what you have written, a chance to deepen your insights and be witnesses in gentle, caring community.

My approach is particularly supportive for people navigating:

  • Life changes and crossroads

  • Desire for deeper self-connection

  • Quest for authentic self-expression

  • Need for clarity and purpose

What to Expect

A typical session weaves together:

  • Guided reading of accessible, powerful poems

  • Gentle invitations for personal reflection

  • Therapeutic writing prompts that open new perspectives

  • Optional sharing in a safe, supportive space

  • Take-home practices to deepen your journey

You don't need to be a writer or poetry lover to benefit. The poems I select are accessible and speak to universal human experiences. Many participants are initially surprised by how naturally the process flows and how deeply it resonates. The writing has nothing whatsoever to do with producing a polished piece of writing- in fact, some people choose not to write every time. The writing is a doorway to hear yourself clearly, and that happens organically for you each time with no expectation from anyone!

The Science Behind Poetry Therapy

Research shows that engaging with poetry and expressive writing can:

  • Increase self-awareness

  • Improve emotional regulation

  • Enhance decision-making clarity

  • Foster resilience during transitions

  • Deepen connection to personal values

As a registered Poetry Therapy Practitioner with the International Academy of Poetry Therapy, I combine this evidence-based approach with trauma-sensitive facilitation and counseling expertise to create a safe, transformative space for your journey.

Getting Started

Your journey can begin wherever feels right for you:

Each offering builds naturally upon the other, allowing you to discover poetry therapy's transformative power at your own pace.

The only requirement is an open heart and willingness to listen to your inner voice. Poetry has a unique way of meeting us exactly where we are, while gently illuminating the path forward.

Ready to explore how poetry therapy can support your journey? Join our next Poetry Circle or reach out with any questions.