FAQ

Social Workers

Is writing talent necessary for Creative "Righting"?

No, it is not. Persons who love to write will be excited to journal. If you are open to experimenting, you may be surprised to discover that you enjoy expressing yourself in words. “Write Here! Write Now! Templates for Initiating Writing” is a good place to start. However, if you do not enjoy writing, there is nothing to stop you from appreciating the writing and wisdom of others.
Who is Creative "Righting" for?

Just about everyone can benefit from creative “righting.” Although not every person likes to write, everyone loves a good story or film. And if someone does not want to write, they can dictate to the scribe or helper. The seminars and products on this site are geared to helping professionals who work with various populations. Nevertheless, personal growth and counseling are for any person who desires it.
If I want to be a facilitator of poetry therapy groups, do I need to be a mental health professional?

The IFBPT (International Federation for Biblio/Poetry Therapy), the standards setting body in the United States, has created a designation for persons who are not mental health professionals. You may train to become a C.A.P.F. (Certified Applied Poetry Facilitator). This designation prepares candidates to work with developmental issues in schools, libraries, and senior centers.
How is Creative "Righting" different from traditional verbal therapy?

In traditional therapy, there are two people in the room, usually in dialogue about “the problem.” In bibliotherapy, there are three people in the room: the facilitator, the client, and the writer, who is represented by the literature. We dialogue about life. It is strengths-based, not pathologically oriented. And unlike traditional therapy, which is hierarchal, with the therapist considered “the authority,” in Creative “Righting,” even though the facilitator brings her expertise of literature and psychology to the session, they are equals.
I am already a mental health professional. Why would I want to be a certified or registered poetry therapist?

The C.P.T. Certification (440 hours of training) and P.T.R. Registration (almost 1,000 hours) demonstrate an expertise that is advantageous in our competitive job market. Many social work and counseling positions want persons who are skilled group workers. You may want to supplement your income as a poetry/biblio therapist.
Is Creative "Righting" just another term for bibliotherapy?

Is Creative "Righting" just another term for bibliotherapy?