Emili Ramble, a social worker and licensed psychotherapist from New York, introduced a novelty in psychotherapy, proposing an unusual form of therapy - healing through reading.
She discovered this method while training in London, when she visited the famous "Library of Poetry," where each client was recommended books that corresponded to their emotional state. Since that moment and for more than a decade, Ramble has used literature as a key instrument in her therapeutic work.
She recently published a book, sharing her vision and experience, emphasizing that storytelling has always been a means for understanding oneself, the past, and the future.
Therapy through reading is based on ancient literary traditions and serves as a means of self-discovery and emotional learning. In the framework of psychotherapy sessions, clients may be encouraged to read a novel, autobiography, poetry collection, or discuss a book that has previously influenced them. The main idea lies in using literature to strengthen psychological self-awareness and stimulate deep self-reflection.
Ramble asserts: "Have you ever read a book that reads you? That’s exactly the kind of experience therapy through reading provides."
Systematic engagement with reading, whether before the night, during a break, or at lunchtime, is recommended for integrating literary therapy into everyday life. Ramble advises always having a book on hand, preferably a poetry anthology, to create moments of immersion in contemplation. She also calls for creating a "nook for books at the bedside," where soulful nourishing texts, such as religious writings, thoughtful diaries, or favorite novels, can be found, as an alternative to the screens of mobile devices.
Therapeutic reading is not limited to adults since rich emotional children's literature aids in developing psychological and social skills during the formative years. Ramble explains that children's stories shape self-respect and reinforce trust in others.
In a world where the pace of life is constantly accelerating, healing through reading provides a necessary moment for reflection. Ramble argues that reading compels us to consciously look at ourselves and dare to confront our truth.
While many believe that healing is only possible within clinical settings, Ramble's experience demonstrates that the path to healing can begin with an ordinary book or an appropriate poem. Reading can become an effective method of therapy that has been dubbed "bibliotherapy."
