I lead writing workshops designed not only to help students develop their creative skills, but also to inspire them to use the writing process as a healing mechanism for trauma and other adverse life experiences. I share deeply personal and intensely emotional writings with students to highlight the effectiveness of writing our pain and trauma.
I also train others to lead these workshops and provide materials that use my Write to Recover Program as a model. Encouraging students to acknowledge and express negative emotions, share their stories, and develop empathy are at the heart of my program. My teaching approach embraces bonding, building trust, and creating intimacy. I believe that healing and effective, long-lasting recovery from addictive behavior requires deeply personal connections.
I also lead “Hike and Write” workshops as part of self-care for anyone in need of unplugging from technology, getting away from screens, and reconnecting with the natural world. I believe that experiences in nature are essential for healthy living and that the lack of such experiences results in physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional sickness.