Work in mental health
Storytelling and creative writing are a powerful way to assist adults suffering from mental health issues. Adrian has been Resident Storyteller and Writer In Residence for the mental health charity South Somerset MIND since 2001.
The storytelling and creative writing sessions are held most Thursdays and are open to anyone who feels they might benefit by attending. South Somerset Mind pays for the course, so it is free to students. People can choose to do either course, or both. Anyone wanting more information can call the South Somerset MIND centre on 01935 410138, or visit the centre which is situated in Dampier Street, Yeovil, Somerset, England.
In 2006 Adrian - and holistic arts and well being tutor Dechen Chodron - were commissioned by mental health organisation Speak Up Somerset to film and produce a short documentary on using holistic approaches - including storytelling - to aid mental health recovery. Entitled 'The Art of Recovery', this film is now well known by professionals in the mental health field in Somerset. The video is a collage of speakers from around the world, discussing a variety of creative avenues for recovery from mental illness, and a showcase of different arts based workshops which are currently being used with success in the Somerset region. The video has also been taken up for distribution by national Mind. Please e-mail Adrian if you require a copy of The Art of Recovery, which retail directly from us for the discount price of £12.99 including UK post and packaging.
Increasingly, Adrian is invited to present workshops at conferences, training professionals working in the fields of mental health or residential care to use storytelling in their work with clients.
Anyone interested in hiring Adrian for storytelling or creative writing sessions with people suffering from mental health issues, please e-mail us.
COMMENTS ON COURSE
“The results from the storytelling and creative writing workshops have been very positive. The students have received a huge boost in confidence, communication skills, listening skills and writing skills. We are all very pleased with Adrian's work and how he gets the best out of group members. The courses have been both creative and therapeutic through Adrian's input.”
Diane Brodie, Training Co-ordinator / Assistant Manager, South Somerset Mind.“The group is good socially and is set up to help those recovering from, or at risk of, mental illness. Adrian is brilliant. He encourages, guides, and helps us all to work on very diverse pieces of writing. I cannot recommend this project too highly, as it is extremely rewarding. Some of the work I hear the other members produce is quite outstanding, and there are only positive results which can be gained. Some people have never been so inspired before.”
Marion Wootten, course student.“When I first came to the group I was not sure about writing or storytelling, but I got into it with help. Adrian has helped me so much. I like telling things from the past. It is better than keeping it inside. I tended to keep things inside and to not go out, but the writing and storytelling has helped me in a big way. I look forward to it each week.”
Louise Neville, course student.