In the simplest of terms, poetry therapy is the intentional use of poetry and other forms of literature for healing and personal growth.

The National Association for Poetry Therapy (NAPT), incorporated in 1981, confers professional credentials to poetry/biblio therapists who have met its rigorous standards. A poetry therapist is a professional who is well-grounded in psychology and literature, as well as group dynamics.  In 1986, the first federal job classification was created and the first federal poetry/biblio therapist was hired at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Washington, DC. 

Each spring NAPT members, a community of healers and lovers of words and language hold an Annual Conference; the location changes each year and has a central theme that unites by their love of the word, and their passion for enhancing the lives of others and themselves.

The goals of poetry therapy are:

• To develop accuracy and understanding in perceiving self and others;
• To develop creativity, self-expression, and greater self-esteem;
• To strengthen interpersonal skills and communication skills;
• To ventilate overpowering emotions and release tension;
• To find new meaning through new ideas, insights, and information; and
• To promote change and increase coping skills and adaptive functions.

Poetry therapy is an interactive process with three essential components: literature, a trained facilitator, and the client(s). A trained poetry/biblio therapist selects a poem or other form of media to serve as a catalyst, to evoke feeling reactions for discussion and encourages writing. The focus is on the person's reaction to the literature, never losing sight of the primary objective-the psychological health and well-being of the individual.

A poetry therapist creates a gentle, non-threatening atmosphere where people feel safe and are invited to share feelings openly and honestly.

Adapted from the National Coalition of Creative Arts Therapies Associations (NCCCATA) web site.