What does bibliotherapy look like?
At Bibliotherapy Australia, we offer bibliotherapy through a presence-led, invitational approach grounded in reflective reading and attentive presence.
A bibliotherapy experience may begin with a poem, a paragraph, a retreat, a podcast or a longer reading journey. Meaningful encounters arise through the meeting between reader and story, supported by presence, invitation, curiosity and care.
Through stories, people may find comfort, companionship or new ways of seeing themselves and the world around them. Rather than directing readers toward a single meaning, stories are offered as invitations to meet something in our own way.
Begin with a story
Hello, I'm Dr Susan McLaine, founder of Bibliotherapy Australia. I'd love to welcome you with a story.
And now, your story
There is no single way to meet bibliotherapy.
Some begin quietly on their own.
Others are drawn to meeting in community.
Or to bringing this way of reading to others.
Wherever you are, there is a place to begin.
Choose where your story begins
Experience Bibliotherapy
A way of meeting story together.
Guided reading experiences for slowing down and being with a story.
Be Your Own Bibliotherapist
A quiet way to meet story on your own.
Reflective reading pathways and guides to support your own reading.
Bring Bibliotherapy to Others
Learn how to guide others in meeting story.
Training and courses for those who wish to offer this work to others.
In conversation with Dr Susan McLaine
Reflective reading, bibliotherapy, and the meeting between reader and story.
A conversation exploring Heart-Centred Bibliotherapy, the presence-led approach developed by Dr Susan McLaine, and the role of stories thoughtfully selected and offered to be met in each person’s own way.
Reflections from the work
A small selection of reflections from people who have met the work.
“Susan invited each of us to shape our own unique approach to bibliotherapy.
What I learnt continues to echo through conversations with clients, colleagues and friends.”
Karen, Educator and Strategist
“As a psychiatrist, I found the course quietly transformative.
Susan created a space that invited reflection, connection and gentle change.”
Ananya, Psychiatrist
“The course was life-changing. Susan’s knowledge, presence and compassion created a truly supportive learning environment.”
Kim, Public Librarian
Publications and organisations we’ve worked with
A small selection from the places our work has appeared.
