The work

Welcome to my website for Creative Writing for Wellbeing and Resilience. My story is one of passion, transformation, and the belief in the power of words to heal and empower. Led by myself, Bethan Rees, I am a dedicated writer and facilitator.

 

My mission is to create a space where individuals can explore their creativity, express their emotions, and enhance their overall wellbeing through the art of writing.

 

My personal journey with writing and wellbeing has shaped my commitment to helping others. Having experienced my own past battles with mental health, I turned to writing as a tool for self-expression and healing. Through my own personal experiences, I recognise the tremendous power that creative writing holds in promoting self-awareness, resilience, and personal growth.

 

I have led workshops on a 121 basis and also for diverse groups, including creative writing groups, festivals, people with disabilities and their carers, and businesses focusing on wellbeing.

 

I believe that writing is a gateway to self-discovery and self-care. My approach to Wellbeing Writing is centered around creating a safe and inclusive space where individuals can freely explore their thoughts, emotions, and ideas without the constraints of spelling, grammar, or inspiration holding them back. I set attainable and enjoyable writing exercises that encourage participants to express themselves in the present moment.

 

With an emphasis on choice and flexibility, each session is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of the participants. Safety guidelines are established at the beginning of each session, ensuring a supportive environment for all. Whether you're a seasoned writer or new to the world of creative expression, my classes cater to individuals of all ages and abilities.

 

I understand the importance of wellbeing, especially in challenging times. Recent studies have highlighted the significant increase in depression rates since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. That's why I'm passionate about offering Wellbeing Writing as a powerful tool to boost mood, enhance wellbeing, and reduce symptoms of depression. Through expressive writing, I aim to empower individuals, helping them cultivate resilience and improve their overall mental health.

 

Join me and embark on a transformative journey of self-expression, self-discovery, and resilience. My classes and programs are designed to fit your unique needs and interests. Whether you're looking to improve existing writing skills or explore the therapeutic benefits of creative expression, I have a variety of courses and sessions to offer.

 

To learn more about what services I can provide, inquire about upcoming courses, or book a session with me, please reach out. You can contact me via email at bethanreeswriter@gmail.com or the contact form on this website. I'm excited to be part of your wellbeing journey and support you in unlocking the transformative power of words. If this sounds interesting, it's always worth trying, work with me and together we will discover where wellbeing meets creativity!

Bethan Rees

  • I am a dedicated writer and facilitator, passionate about the transformative power of creative writing for wellbeing.
  • I hold an MSc in Creative Writing for Therapeutic Purposes from Metanoia Institute accredited by Middlesex University.
  • As a qualified facilitator, I am insured to provide Creative Writing for Therapeutic Purposes under Balens Health Professionals Combined Liability Insurance.
  • I hold a BA (Hons) in English Studies with Drama. 
  • I have been published in both online and print poetry magazines and am working on releasing a chapbook/poetry pamphlet. 
  • My sessions have a humanistic approach, and encorporates teachings from ‎Gillie Bolton, ‎Kate Thompson, Jane Moss, Celia Hunt, James Pennebaker, Claire Willamson, Nigel Gibbons, Fiona Hamilton and Graham Hartill.
  • I encourage playfulness and alternative approaches to creative writing, fostering a sense of fun and freedom within the sessions.
  • I reside in Brixham, Devon. My workshops reach individuals both online and in-person, fostering connections within local communities and beyond.
  • I have worked in Brixham, Swindon, Neath, South Dakota, Birmingham, Huddersfield and with a variety of locations online. 
  • Further qualifications I have are: Train the Trainer, Introduction to Counselling Skills and a 1st in Facilitating Therapeutic Groups. 

Testimonials

These quotes have been taken from reviews or feedback with permission granted to share from the person. 

Due to covid Bethan had to run her workshop via Zoom. Despite not being in the room with us, Bethan still managed to engage and involve everyone.  We had a fabulous workshop and would highly recommend Bethan." Julia, Festival Manager, Huddersfield Literature Festival.

 

 

“It reminded me of all of the good bits of meditation but without the anxiety inducing parts of having to sit still and go down a rabbithole of bad thoughts. It felt safe because Bethan directed it in a really kind and reassuring way.” Becky

 

 

“I first took part in Let’s Do Words during the UK lockdowns, and the sheer relief they gave me was unbelievable. It’s yoga for the imagination, and everything is broken down in a way which makes you reflect on senses, structures and feelings. Bethan nurtures your confidence throughout, delivering clear guidance with wit and flair. Highly recommended.” April

 

 

"Bethan Rees is an incredible host - warm, encouraging and engaging - and fosters a relaxed, supportive and creative environment in her sessions. A brilliant experience to attend either on your own, or with colleagues as a team activity - whether you're looking for inspiration to begin writing or just for something calm and relaxing." David - UK Research & Innovation.

 

 

"Though I've been 'writing adjacent' my whole life this is the first creative writing workshop I've done. It was therapeutic and rather wonderful. Bethan does a brilliant job of holding the session so you feel safe to be vulnerable and creative." Caroline

 

 

"Bethan’s class was very engaging and interesting, even as a complete beginner like myself. She is clearly very passionate and it shows." Nick

 

 

 

“As a copywriter, I spend most days writing to tight deadlines for other people. Let's do words gave me a great opportunity to write for myself and focus on my own wellbeing for a few hours a week.” Jonathan

 

 

“I was skeptical at first about the efficacy of the idea of creative writing for therapeutic purposes, and then Bethan ran me through a few exercises that I found deeply effective. I saw myself from a different angle, and it was amazing to be able to use my creative abilities for something so introspective and have it work so well. 

She's incredibly good at putting you at ease with what you're working on, so although it sometimes gets a little deep and real, I always felt safe, which gave me the confidence to dive deeper into the discoveries I was able to make about myself.

I came out of the experience feeling comfortable and self assured, and would recommend it to anybody else to at least try once.” Zayne

 

 

"A new and original way for those that have 'lost track' to get back on the rails.” Adrian

 

 

“Initially I was skeptical that a class like this would be for me, but Bethan was incredible at involving everyone, and her passion was clear from the start. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and would absolutely return.” Anon

 

 

“Bethan is an experienced and skilful facilitator and I have enjoyed attending her workshops.” Victoria