If we are psychologists, counselors or
psychotherapists, we live and work in conversation. This means we
have to engage more fully with the ambiguities, surprises and riches
of language. Writing as a significant mode of inquiry will be
approached as a form of conversation.
The workshop will explore some of the possibilities of imaginative,
nonfictional writing in this context. We will attend to some of the
psychological issues which arise in the course of trying to write
and will engage in searching for understanding through this manner
of conversation.
Much of the time will be given to writing, playing with different
ways of reaching beyond what we know we know. The idea of
psychologists and counselors needing to be "poet" practitioners, if
they are to become imaginative scientists and seekers for truth and
understanding will inform our time together.
Topics which may be addressed include: the personal and social
blocks which limit imaginative writing, as well as ways of bypassing
these blocks; writing as conversation; allowing other "voices;"
attending to what is involved in "inquiry in conversation;" and
writing as searching for personal meaning and understanding.
The workshop aims to be enjoyable, informative, useful and
encouraging.