Words of Healing: Navigating Bad Therapy & the Power of Writing with Michelle Thomas

The Happier Life Project

Writing provides a safe space to delve into our thoughts and emotions, explore our relationships, and reflect on our life stories, dreams, and aspirations. It serves as a powerful tool for making sense of our experiences, allowing us to navigate and overcome trauma while facilitating personal growth and change.

Writing therapy, often referred to as journal therapy, is exactly what it sounds like: using writing, typically in a journal, for therapeutic benefits. This approach is low-cost, easily accessible, and incredibly versatile. It can be practiced individually, guided by a mental health professional, or even in a group setting with discussions centered around writing. Additionally, it can serve as a supplement to other forms of therapy.

In this episode of The Happier Life Project, host Gabby Sanderson welcomes back bestselling author Michelle Thomas, known for her book 'My S**t Therapist & Other Mental Health Stories'. Together, they delve into the transformative power of writing as a therapeutic tool.

What to expect... Michelle talks about her passion for writing about mental health and her commitment to incorporating and amplifying others’ stories. She explains how writing has become a vital tool in her self-care toolkit and why it can be a healing resource for everyone, regardless of their writing ability.

During the conversation, Michelle also gives listeners a glimpse into her upcoming book, set to explore the often-overlooked subject of regret, set for release in 2025. While keeping most details under wraps, Michelle hints at how regret plays a significant role in our emotional landscape and can actually serve as a powerful tool for reflection and personal growth.

Gabby and Michelle also discuss the challenges of finding a good therapist and the lessons learned from difficult experiences. Plus, they consider Prince Harry’s suggestion to rename 'mental health' as 'mental fitness'—is it just semantics, or could it represent a significant shift?

Through the act of writing, we can discover our unique voices and gain deeper insights into ourselves. Whether journaling, composing poetry, or simply jotting down thoughts, the written word empowers us to confront our challenges and embrace our journeys. In a world that often feels overwhelming, writing can be a transformative practice that nurtures our mental well-being and enhances our understanding of ourselves.

Whether you're a seasoned writer or just curious about the healing process of writing, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Grab your favourite notebook or simply settle in for an uplifting conversation.

To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast
To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself
To follow Michelle Thomas on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msmthomas/
To purchase Michelle's book 'My S**t Therapist': https://amzn.eu/d/gy647BV