MHC’s Write On! program is designed for individuals who want to find their voice and share their truth through the healing power of writing and storytelling. Janet Reynolds is the lead instructor and creator of the Write On! Program. She is an award-winning writer, editor, and investigative journalist and holds a Masters in English Literature from Trinity College. Janet has written extensively about her family’s journey with schizophrenia.
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Participants leave Write On! with advanced writing and storytelling skills, new ways to cope during times of emotional distress, and the confidence to share their story in a way that demystifies mental illness and ends stigma in their community. Since 2016, Write On! has been offered at no cost to young adults in CT (ages 14-29). Participants have produced original pieces that we call “Telling Tales” at the end of each 9 week course. We record these performances and have shared them publicly on YouTube and Spotify.
Write On! is a 9-week workshop designed for individuals who are living with or have experienced a mental health condition.
Meet the brave faces reclaiming their story and empowering others
By The University of Hartford’s Center for Social Research
Meet the brave faces reclaiming their story and empowering others
Discover Your Inner Writer is a six-week workshop designed to ignite the spark of creativity within participants. Led by experienced facilitators, the program guides budding writers through the process of storytelling while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Through weekly sessions, participants embark on a journey of self-discovery and skill development. From crafting compelling narratives to honing their writing routines, attendees are equipped with the tools they need to express themselves authentically. Discover Your Inner Writer walks participants through setting up a writing practice, provides strategies for improving your writing, and includes writing prompts and exercises to help keep you motivated and improving.
MHC workshops run for multiple weeks during Fall/Winter or Spring/Summer programs.
By clicking Sign Up you’re confirming that you agree with our Terms and Conditions.
Facilitated by experts in journalism and mental health
Meet weekly to work on a story based on your own experiences
Build storytelling skills with articles, video, testimonials, and group discussions
Individual guidance and professional improv training on how to tell your story
Present or perform your story in front of family and friends
MHC supports young adult writers (14-29) dealing with mental health challenges, substance use, or trauma. Our program empowers them to become strong storytellers and self-advocates, enhancing writing skills, promoting healing through writing, and raising awareness about living with mental health conditions or trauma. Collaborating with Sea Tea Improv enhances confidence and public speaking skills.
Kim shares her struggles with addiction and the scars you collect when living with a mental health condition.
Justin shares his personal story of living with Schizophrenia.
Sara shares her #metoo story in a powerful spoken word piece.
Diedre shares how her faith has helped in her mental health journey.
Increase in a sense of empowerment after the Write On! workshop program
Increase in a sense of hope and self-determination with community education
Many health settings continue to impose limitations on people living with mental health conditions, rather than empowering them. Moreover, people with mental health conditions are often a target of public stigma including negative stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination. As a result of experiencing and/or perceiving negative reactions and biases, many individuals living with mental health conditions internalize these views.
A 6-week online writing program designed for individuals, mental health professionals and and educators to learn how to build a writing practice and gain its healing benefits for their own wellbeing.
This Program Is Now Closed, Stay Tuned for Updates
These testimonials speak to the life-changing community and creative empowerment found within the Write On! workshop, where individuals reclaim their narratives and break free from the constraints of mental health stigma.
FOLLOW WRITE ON!
“I learned that you can just free write and edit later. Also, an idea can change the world.”
Joseph C.
Write On! Alumni
“Use your imagination. Immerse yourself in the story and visualize what you see, smell, taste. Are you the antagonist or the villain/villainess? Let it flow and follow it.”
Terrex C.
Write On! Alumni
“I learned that I can express my emotions in a very positive manner when I write.”
Shawn M.
Write On! Alumni
“Before participating in the Write On! program, I never considered myself as a writer, and I definitely never considered myself as a mental health advocate. This program has changed my perspective, the way I move in this world, and therefore, my life.”
Lauren
Write On! Alumni
Your support could help someone find their way forward, knowing they are not alone on their journey toward wellness. From a monthly donation, to creating a fundraiser event, to donating in memory of a loved one, there are so many ways you can make a difference!
