“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” -CG Jung

Our unconscious, though elusive, communicates in the form of subtle signals or clues: a surprising wave of emotion during a conversation, a panicking body sensation “sabotaging” our work presentation, a pattern we keep repeating in our relationships, or simply a growing desire to understand ourselves more fully. These clues want to show us something and deserve a closer look. The practice of inviting our deeper selves forward through committed curiosity, working with the themes and symbols showing up in our lives, listening to the body, and paying attention to our dreams can reveal a new way of life more aligned with what we know deep down is possible.

One way to invite greater insight and self-discovery is through therapeutic writing. Journaling is just the beginning of what’s possible when we pick up a pen and paper. In writing therapy, the therapist offers gentle yet challenging prompts, needed encouragement, and supportive tools to soften the critic that limits self-expression, allowing what’s hidden to emerge, all within a safe container. As Flannery O’Conner put it:“I write because I don't know what I think until I read what I say.” Additionally, sharing the therapeutic writing process with a group of others committed to the same supportive environment adds new layers of healing. We often think we are the only ones with stories or feelings like the ones inside us, and when we share them we find others in the group who relate. The therapeutic writing process allows our sense of shame, anxiety, and isolation, as well as our unexpressed joys and genius to open into healing connection.

If you long to know yourself more deeply, or are curious about what a writing practice might offer you, consider joining the upcoming writing therapy group.

About Course Facilitation: In addition to training in psychotherapy, somatic awareness, and mindfulness, I completed a MA in Nonfiction Writing at Johns Hopkins University and have trained for over a decade in writing-as-a-spiritual-practice with such experts as Natalie Goldberg, Mirabai Starr, Brooke McNamara and others. Please note this is a process group intended to support a therapeutic writing practice. Rather than focusing on writing craft, sessions are designed for inner exploration, community and connection, and self-care. The group is protected by therapeutic standards of confidentiality and non-judgment. To determine if you and the group are a good fit, I will meet with you to learn more about you and discuss your needs and intentions in joining the group.