The Epsom Counselling Service facilitates a reading group which meets to focus on the links between literature (written and visually expressed) and psychotherapeutic themes.
“Psychotherapeutic” is a big word but the meaning simply combines two notions: thinking (of the psyche), and feeling more comfortable with life (therapeutic).
There are several core universal themes to life and they can all be found in literature. After all, over the centuries, poets, writers and film makers have continued to use these central themes to engage their readers/viewers in their work.
Reflecting and considering the significance of these themes, and what they might mean to the individual, promotes self awareness and insight into what it is to be ‘human’ - sharing the roller coaster of emotions available to all of us.
The club considers works that are both contemporary and classical. Books, plays, poetry, televsion, film and newspaper/magazine articles all provide a wide range of rich choices.
How the group is run
We are an informal forum where we seek to exchange views on the material we read, or watch, to develop our mutual understanding of the work itself, consider psychological implications and how and why they might affect us.
To take into account the nature of the group and its aims, the group’s number will never exceed eight members for any meeting.
Meetings are twice per month on Mondays between 11.15am and 12.45pm. The cost is £10 per month payable on registration at the beginning of any month, and includes light refreshments.
Diary dates: April 12th and 19th
Meeting times: 11.15am to 12.45pm.
Any suggestions or thoughts for future books, or discussion topics, can be e-mailed to Ross Banner. Please use the drop down arrow via the contact page. Suggestions will be posted here so that group members have a chance to consider their thoughts before meetings.
April topic…
The Road Less Travelled, by M Scott Peck.
(Click the image to order from amazon.co.uk.)
The Road Less Travelled is a multi-million seller, world-wide. Written around forty years ago, it offers clues and thoughts on being better able to cope in the modern world.
Scott Peck offers both psychologically thinking, as well as religious views, on what he thinks it takes to lead a more contented, or at least less anxious, life.
Notable themes within the book include; how our past ‘maps’ our future choices, understanding love, communication, the disciplines involved to promote change in self and the potential for grace.
The club will meet to discuss this work in April.
To register your interest in attending future meetings please contact the service. Any thoughts or ideas for future subjects and/or reading material are welcomed.
