• is the intentional use of the written word for healing and personal growth
• uses poetry, prose, lyrics, journal writing, etc. to help individuals see hidden facets of themselves
• assists in a cathartic way by helping people find their own voice in a safe setting, thus leading to healing and self integration.
• can be self-affirming when people let their own voices be “heard” by others. Isolation decreases.
• gives voice to pain, thus putting it outside of the body rather than keeping it inside.
• has a goal of self-understanding and self-expression rather than the written product as a goal.
• has been shown through the research of Dr. James Pennebaker to have positive effects of strengthening the immune system.
• historically goes back to the time of the Greeks worship of Apollo who respected the connection of medicine and poetry.
• uses literature to make exploration of “inner space” safer.
  

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