Read and Rise

A wooden tray with pink roses, a black teapot, a floral cup and saucer with coffee, a floral creamer, a plate with assorted pastries, and an open book on a lace-trimmed burlap tablecloth.

Healing through story.

Individual Sessions

For those who prefer a more private and personalized approach that offers deeper one-on-one support, bibliotherapy sessions are thoughtfully curated to create a nurturing healing space. This environment enables individuals to reconnect with their inner voice, rewrite limiting narratives that may have hindered their growth, and engage in transformative growth through the power of story and reflection. It is an opportunity for self-discovery and personal development.

Bibliotherapy sessions involve guided reading selections tailored to the individual’s specific therapeutic needs and goals. Individuals may choose books, articles, or poetry that resonate with their current emotional state or challenges. These sessions often include discussions about the material, allowing room for reflection on how the themes and characters relate to their own experiences.

Wooden tray with a cup of coffee and plate of sunflower seeds next to an open book on a fabric surface.

  1. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
    This gothic horror novel delves into themes of heritage, trauma, and the complexities of familial relationships. Set in 1950s Mexico, it explores the haunting past of a decaying estate and its impact on the protagonist.

  2. Chica, Why Not? by Patricia D. Fadula
    This uplifting work focuses on empowering Latina women and embracing their identities. It provides insights into overcoming societal pressures and encourages readers to pursue their dreams without fear.

  3. Self-Care for Latinas: Tools for Your Personal Mission by Jennifer A. Mendez and Alicia A. Nunez
    This practical guide emphasizes the importance of self-care within the Latinx community. It offers strategies for managing stress and trauma while nurturing personal growth and healthy relationships.

  4. The Haunting of Alejandra by V. Castro
    Blending horror with personal and cultural trauma, this novel tells the story of Alejandra as she confronts supernatural forces tied to her family's past. The narrative addresses themes of identity, grief, and the struggle to reclaim one's narrative.

  5. Women Who Run With the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés

    This book is valuable for understanding the feminine psyche through tales and folk stories, relevant for Latinx women navigating trauma and relationship dynamics.

  6. The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz

    A narrative that tackles the complexities of the Dominican experience in America, dealing with trauma, familial relationships, and the search for identity.

These selections provide a rich exploration of the Latinx experience, addressing crucial topics such as trauma recovery and the dynamics of personal and relational growth.

Growing with soul.

Small Group

For those who seek meaningful connection, shared reflection, and a welcoming supportive community atmosphere, we offer a unique bibliotherapy group designed specifically for individuals who are ready to embark on a journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery while reclaiming their life stories. Through the use of powerful and transformative books, guided discussions, and thoughtful reflective practices, we delve into important themes such as identity, trauma recovery, and personal empowerment — all within a culturally grounded, inclusive, and affirming space that encourages open dialogue and vulnerability.

Selected Reads: Exploring Latinx Experience, Trauma Recovery, and Relationship Dynamics