Bibliotherapy

Bibliotherapy is the use of books as therapy in the treatment of mental or psychological disorders. I might be old fashioned, however I've noticed that the use of books as a self help tool; is often given less credit than is due.

Many books have changed my life. "The Happiness Trap" by Russ Harris is one. It taught me concrete strategies on how to teach acceptance as a therapist. It made me laugh and cry, and it taught me how my clients might be thinking sometimes.

I love knowing that I am giving myself time to read. It's a form of self care. I find myself escaping into books sometimes, so why not make that escapism useful for when we come back to reality. I get excited by the sensory experience of a book, holding it in your hands, new or old, both have their charms. I find when I'm reading, I am forced to slow down. To sit, to breathe and be still. Something that I have to practice regularly, as it's not my usual tempo.

I recommend books to my clients all the time. some read them, some don't. That's ok; it's just another method of empowering my clients to help themselves. If you're keen to use some bibliotherapy, feel free to come and browse our free Self Help library at the clinic.