Integrative Therapeutic Writing, as developed by Dima Dupéré, seeks to offer a practice that is distinct from journal writing. It goes beyond an individual journaling practice and incorporates the following elements: relaxation, guided meditation, specific writing exercises, interaction with the text, reflection, and personal questioning.
It integrates the individual, social, structural, and spiritual context of the person. It helps the individuals to define themselves and grow by taking into account their relationship or interaction with themselves, with others, with the world around them.
Integrative therapeutic writing encourages silence and self-listening. It helps to develop / improve self-compassion and self-confidence.
The role of the clinician or psychotherapist is to help the client re-examine the content of their writing in order to help them find solutions and determine the next course to follow.
This approach can be integrated very well with other therapeutic approaches such as cognitive therapy, the structural approach, Gestalt, art therapy, narrative therapy as well as ego-state and parts work. It can be adapted to the individual and is supported by research in neuroscience.
The act of keeping a journal outside of this approach is still a powerful tool and anyone who writes regularly will benefit. It does not take away from the importance of the journal but wants to place it at the centre of an integrative approach that can support individuals on many levels. By adding other elements, writing becomes the vehicle through which an individual can realize that they are they expert of their life.
Listen to a podcast interview on Journal Talk where I describe the MOSS and how it can help you situate yourself better and direct your journaling.
Here is a guest post regarding my experience of journal writing.
See the highlights of a journaling writing retreat held in Woody Point, Newfoundland and Labrador. Information
Two courses are in 'production' and will be available in a couple of months. I will post the info page here soon.
The first course, Intro to Integrative Therapeutic Writing (ITW), is for psychotherapists, counsellors, social workers, youth workers, etc. It gives an overview of Integrative Therapeutic Writing and gives you enough information and resources to begin using it with your clients.
The next course if for the general population and is called: Renovate your life: a holistic approach to journal writing.
If you are interested in either please sign up below to be on the mailing list and receive updates.
Watch part of the presentation. Was recorded as Facebook Live on May 24, 2018. If you have any questions or would like more information, don't hesitate to contact me.
We will keep you up to date on new developments regarding courses and events.
Host and organizer of Words and Waves. Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist. Ottawa.
Integrative Therapeutic Writing (ITW) and Écriture thérapeutique intégrative (ETI) was developed by Dima Dupéré. Just a friendly reminder that unless otherwise cited or credited, this course and all its content, including but not limited to print and electronic manuals, infographics, videos, and handouts, is protected by copyright law.
Integrative Therapeutic Writing (ITW) and Écriture thérapeutique intégrative (ETI) will gradually roll out as an accredited course. Only individuals who successfully complete the various levels will be authorized to use these materials within specific perimeters. This will include copying certain pages for clients and using materials for workshops /training.
I acknowledge the work of other leaders in the area of therapeutic writing, narrative therapy, and art therapy. Their contributions continue to inspire me. A list of references will be available on this website shortly.
Some of my graphics are created with the use of CANVA. I possess a Pro plan which allows me to use their assets for commercial use.
Copyright © 2018-2023 Dima Dupéré, MSW, RSW.
Integrative Therapeutic Writing (ITW) / Écriture thérapeutique intégrative (ETI).
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