Expressive writing for healing and well-being

An interactive workshop exploring some of the ways in which writing has been found to promote healing and recovery through times of personal crisis, illness or loss.

The therapeutic power of the written word has been widely acknowledged for a very long time, and in recent years an increasing amount of research has shown that writing can be a highly effective tool in promoting both mental and physical health and well-being.

Whether it's about trying to work through unresolved issues from the past, adjusting to life-changing circumstances such as illness or loss, or simply seeking out more effective ways of dealing with some of the more challenging aspects of day-to-day life, writing can be a helpful means of releasing unexpressed feelings, overcoming self-destructive thinking habits and promoting all-round health and well-being.

Led by experienced therapist and training facilitator Sharon Hinsull, this workshop will provide a hands-on opportunity to explore some of the evidence-based methods through which writing has been found to assist the healing and recovery process. There’s no need for any previous experience of creative or expressive writing, nor is there any need to worry about spelling, punctuation or grammar.

Expressive writing is all about embarking on your very own personal journey of self-discovery, healing and growth. This workshop will look at a number of different expressive writing techniques, each providing an opportunity for individual reflection and exploration in a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment.

This workshop is designed to encourage the use of writing as a reflective and expressive medium - both from a personal perspective and for those attending for professional reasons - as a route towards integrating writing into therapeutic practice.

The course is recommended for anyone with an interest in exploring expressive writing skills for their own personal and/or professional use, and may be of particular interest to those involved in the fields of counselling and psychotherapy, mental health, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, nursing and palliative care, supporting older adults and health and social care.

All delegates will receive a Certificate of Attendance and accompanying workshop hand-outs.