The widespread presence of loneliness and social isolation within every age group and across many different countries was being documented, even before the Covid pandemic augmented the problem. We, as members of the writing for wellness and biblio/poetry therapy communities, are in a unique position to foster a culture of connection and address the issue of loneliness and its damaging mental, spiritual and physical effects, with sensitivity and compassion.
Besides raising awareness regarding the various factors that cause loneliness, this workshop will focus on how facilitating personalized discussion of carefully selected poems and the sharing of responses to writing prompts can alleviate loneliness within the communities we create and serve.
Geri Giebel Chavis, Ph.D. is a certified mentor with the International Federation for Biblio/Poetry Therapy, a certified poetry therapist, a licensed psychologist, and literature professor emerita at St. Catherine University in St. Paul, Minnesota. Geri has presented a wide variety of workshops within the UK, U.S., and Republic of Ireland, and has published numerous articles and three books related to biblio/poetry therapy, two of which are required texts for individuals pursuing biblio/poetry therapy certification: Poetry and Story Therapy: The Healing Power of Creative Expression and The Healing Fountain: Poetry Therapy for Life’s Journey, co-edited with Lila Weisberger. Geri’s fourth travel leading adventure, entitled “Literary/Expressive Writing in the UK: Fostering Insight, Inspiration and Rejuvenation,” will take place from May 11-22, 2026.
Lapidus London
Writing for wellbeing events and networking in London
We are a group of individuals who are passionate about the power of writing for self-development, self-expression and healing.
Our backgrounds range from creative writing to healthcare, marketing, professional services and education. Some of us write as part of our day jobs while others use writing purely for self-development. Whatever your own interest in writing for wellbeing or poetry as a therapeutic tool, we would love to welcome you.
Jon Sayers and Charmaine Pollard are the coordinators.
