In order to satisfy my desire to lead psycho-educational groups, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I created The Transformative Journal School (TJS) on teachable.com. The Process Journal is the newest course for TJS and gives busy students quick and effective techniques for starting and maintaining a transformative journaling practice.

We still have the free Introduction to the Transformative Journal, which describes 4 main types of journaling techniques (Dream, Process, Gratitude & Manifestation) with a deep dive into the health benefits of each.

What is the Process Journal?

The process journal is the dynamic cousin of your high school diary. It is a creative, effective tool for self-growth and professional development - not just a landing pad for capturing the day’s events.

What does it do?

It acts as a powerful release valve for internal pressure. Amazingly, studies have shown, that just knowing that you have access to a trusted outlet, is enough to reduce anxiety. A regular practice provides even more benefit, like illuminating deeper insights and helping halt negative patterns.

Does it work?

Yes! I have kept a journal for over 30 years and credit it with helping me consistently reduce stress, manage anxiety, deepen my personal and professional insights, improve relationships and maintain creative and spiritual connections.

What will I learn?

The Process Journal course offers practical tips about when and what to write, and supports your practice by introducing ideas about self-compassion and cultivating an inner “good coach”.

How is it a form of meditation?

I enjoy sitting in zazen, traditional seated meditation, but sometimes feel like my mind needs a more active download. In those moments, I grab my pencil and composition book and start writing. Journaling tames those amorphous, free floating thoughts, transforming them into ideas and concepts that work for you, not against you. As bonus, once you corral and honor wild surface thoughts, you have more energy to make faster connections and find deeper truths.

Is anybody buying this?

Ha! A free course is available, so you don’t have to buy anything at all. In addition, it’s just been adapted, by CE You! a licensed continuing education provider for mental health professionals and I will be presenting the course live on February 22nd.

Why are you qualified to teach this stuff?

I am a licensed clinical social worker, published writer, psychotherapist, mother of two and singer-songwriter in my spare time. My holistic psychotherapy practice promotes healthy life-work balance and how to “come alive in your livelihood”.

We do this by partnering with clients. Together, we formulate the vision for a life that feels most aligned with their spirit. Then, we do the work of creating the roadmap for how to get there. Journaling helps us to examine mental health challenges for their historical, emotional, physical and environmental origins. Clients generally receive personalized journaling prompts and plans to continue their therapeutic process between sessions.