Today I sit down with Kathleen Adams, a pioneer in therapeutic writing since 1985, who has transformed our understanding of how putting pen to paper can change our brains and improve our mental and physical health. As founder of both the Therapeutic Writing Institute and the Center for Journal Therapy, Kay shares her expertise and innovative journaling techniques.

Kay provides an alternate to what we think of as "journaling" or "free writing," which can be intimidating to many. "Structure, pacing, and containment" are at the core of Kay's method--critical elements that emerged from her work with psychiatric patients who found that free-writing or "rage on the page" worsened their symptoms.

For those managing bipolar disorder, Kay offers guidance, specifically on  ways to build in reflection time to create emotional balance, greater self-awareness, and genuine healing. Your journal is flexible and forgiving. You are in charge - discover what works for you.

Therapeutic Writing Institute

Center for Journal Therapy

Your Brain on Ink: A Workbook on Neuroplasticity and the Journal Ladder (It's Easy to W.R.I.T.E. Expressive Writing) by Deborah Ross and Kathleen AdamsJournal Therapy for Overcoming Burnout: 366 Prompts for Renewal and Stress Management by Kathleen Adams

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Bipolar She is dedicated to real conversations for women living with mental illness. Hosted by Janine Noel, the majority of episodes give voice to a woman who has lived-life experience with mental illness--or who has experienced the illness of someone close to them. Along the way, I interview experts in the field that address additional mental health concerns.

Frankly, coping with a mental health condition can be exhausting. Here's a place where you can land and find an episode that resonates with you. Some topics we've covered: being a bipolar mom or having a bipolar mom. Anxiety, agoraphobia, chronic depression, ECT, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, a psychiatrist that breaks your trust. A therapist who goes above and beyond to help you. The impact of trauma on your brain. 

Bipolar She couldn't have thrived without guitarist, JD Cullum's original music.

Editor Brandon Moran makes everyone's voice sound both crisper and smarter.

Sponsored by Amy Vincze's Emotional Freedom Technique App: Soar With Tapping.

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