Playing with Language: Creative ways of exploring the 'hum' in human

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Format: This online seminar explores an unconventional , creative use of words- with applications to personal expression within therapy and beyond. The Western world relies heavily on verbal expression. Yet how often have we heard clients (and ourselves!) say: ”I can’t find the right words to say it’, or I’m no good with language’..or somesuch. This practical workshop explores three instant writing formats that may lend a Goodman or Dali- esque vibe to our creations made ‘here and now’.

These writing forms find application in group and individual therapy/ therapeutic work. During this workshop a few volunteers will be invited to share their work with the whole group and to comment on the process.

First we consider an informal version of Haiku, drawing on this Oriental descriptive , poetry form, traditionally used to reflect on nature and the world around us.

Next we explore Cinquains, Adelaide Crapsey’s unique method involving creating five- line poems.

Finally we explore ‘Cut Ups’ – a form of writing, invented by 1920’s Dadaists and popularised by William Burroughs in the 1950’s. This quirky approach has been adopted by many musicians including Bowie, Dylan, Lennon, Cobain, Jobim, Radiohead and others.

Participants will need : writing equipment, some old newspapers/ magazines , glue, scissors , marker pens and copy paper.

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About the presenter: Jon Blend, MA Psych, Dip Child, is British/ Austrian, a Gestalt psychotherapist, child psychotherapist, clinical supervisor and musician. He maintains a psychotherapy practice in London. Jon is a faculty member of Institute for Arts in Therapy and Education, a visiting tutor at several psychotherapy Institutes and a trainer with the Violet Oaklander Foundation. He hosts CAEAIG: IAAGT’s young persons’ welfare interest group. Since 2002 Jon has taught projective arts -informed therapies and musical improvisation to psychotherapists, educationalists, actors and artists. His career in adult and child mental health began 45 years ago, in psychiatric and disability social work in various settings.

Jon recently delivered workshops in Brazil, Bulgaria, Georgia, Iran, Italy, Poland, Ukraine, U.S. and U.K. For published articles and training information, visit https://www.gacp.co.uk