This presentation describes utilizing poetry and performance, psychodrama, and storytelling in healing survivors of trauma and trafficking. Often used in group processes, these experiential and expressive methods draw on creativity and self-empowerment and enable survivors to envision their journey in new and positive ways. Because these methods are more active, they can enable clients to utilize untapped skills. For many survivors, therapies that draw on imagination, meaning making, and inner strengths may prove beneficial and allow them to “ give voice” to their unique courage and healing power. Attendees will learn theoretical underpinnings of these methods, research on therapy efficacy, themes and prompts, and practical ways to use them in treating survivors.
Trigger Warning: This presentation contains information (written, spoken, or visual) that may be triggering or (re)traumatizing to attendees.
Mac Morrison has worked as a mental health counselor in the field of trauma recovery and human trafficking for over 20 years. She is also an accomplished indie film-maker and director, slam poet, and leader of healing psychodrama and poetry/prose workshops with survivors. Mac has a strong belief in the healing power of expressive arts. She is also a survivor of human trafficking.