Words from the HEArt: Poetry therapy and group work with the homeless

Abstract

The focus of this article is on the use of poetry therapy in group work with the homeless and their service providers. Particular attention is directed to task and treatment groups. Practice observations and a review of poetic material indicate the expressive/creative component of poetry therapy can help advance the self-development and empowerment of the homeless, as well as serve to promote community awareness.

Keywords:

• Group work
• homeless
• poetry therapy
• writing

Grateful appreciation is extended to Stephanie Shepherd, Deputy Director, Big Bend Homeless Coalition, Tallahassee, FL, USA; and Justin Graham, Office of Program Policy Analysis and Governmental Accountability, Tallahassee, FL, USA for their leadership and major contribution to the HEArt Project. This work was supported by a grant from the National Association for Poetry Therapy Foundation. This article is dedicated to Dr. Wendy P. Cook (1952–2007), long-time advocate for the homeless.

Grateful appreciation is extended to Stephanie Shepherd, Deputy Director, Big Bend Homeless Coalition, Tallahassee, FL, USA; and Justin Graham, Office of Program Policy Analysis and Governmental Accountability, Tallahassee, FL, USA for their leadership and major contribution to the HEArt Project. This work was supported by a grant from the National Association for Poetry Therapy Foundation. This article is dedicated to Dr. Wendy P. Cook (1952–2007), long-time advocate for the homeless.

Notes

Grateful appreciation is extended to Stephanie Shepherd, Deputy Director, Big Bend Homeless Coalition, Tallahassee, FL, USA; and Justin Graham, Office of Program Policy Analysis and Governmental Accountability, Tallahassee, FL, USA for their leadership and major contribution to the HEArt Project. This work was supported by a grant from the National Association for Poetry Therapy Foundation. This article is dedicated to Dr. Wendy P. Cook (1952–2007), long-time advocate for the homeless.