What is Bibli
otherapy?
Bibliotherapy is a practice that uses books to support wellbeing. The books chosen vary with the type of bibliotherapy and whether the practice is clinical or community based.
The experience
Imagine a warm environment where open-hearted individuals gather to let stories come to life. This course is as much about your own growth and wellbeing as it is about learning how to guide others. You’ll discover how literature fosters emotional connection and deepens our relationships with ourselves and others, while also developing the confidence and skills to facilitate bibliotherapy.
At Bibliotherapy Australia, our innovative model integrates stories with neuroscience and psychological theory. Balancing both biblio and therapy, the program grounds you in bibliotherapy’s therapeutic intention and techniques — enriching practice and presence.
The details
When: 4-6 February 2026, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm daily (non-residential)
Where: Warrnambool Library and Learning Centre, 8 Kepler Street, (within South West TAFE)
Getting there: Parking – Ozone Car Park – 6 min walk ($5 all day)
Cost: $1,195 (Early bird) or $1,495
Deposit: $299.00 (20% deposit secures your place)
Early bird balance due: 5 January 2026 ($896.00)
Enquiries, registration & payment options contact Dr Susan McLaine [email protected]
Course inclusions
| o Comprehensive course notes
o Post course activities to embed learnings o Follow up group meeting (Zoom) o Certificate of Completion |
o Free ongoing Graduate Gatherings (Zoom)
o Morning and afternoon refreshments o BYO lunch (fridge, microwave available) o Cafés nearby |
Presenter
Dr Susan McLaine is the founder of Bibliotherapy Australia and a leading advocate of bibliotherapy in Australia and internationally. She has delivered keynote presentations and workshops at major events, including the 2024 IFLA International Conference.
Participants
Our courses welcome both professionals and non-professionals.
Professionals — from mental health and aged care to education, libraries, coaching and community services — often gain practical new skills for their work, while discovering unexpected personal renewal.
Non-professionals come to deepen their reading life, nurture creativity, and explore how stories can support wellbeing and spark connection with others.
Course reviews: More reviews here at https://bibliotherapyaustralia.com.au/reviews-of-the-course/
‘This course has not only broadened my understanding of literature’s transformative potential but also encouraged each of us to delve deeper into the emotional and psychological insights that literature can offer. The experiential style of the training alongside detailed notes and references to reading materials, made this course both engaging and incredibly practical. I’ve always understood the profound healing power of literature, but this training makes it possible to deliver this in a structured way, appropriate to the setting and the audience which was incredibly valuable. I would wholeheartedly recommend Dr Susan McLaine’s Bibliotherapy Skills course.” Christina, Public Librarian
‘I feel like I am ready to fill my toolbox with some heart centred tools. I wanted to let you know how grateful I am I met you and got to experience these last 3 days immersed in a wonderful heart-centred environment. An environment you created through your genuine generosity, passion and care for others.” Elsa, Public Librarian
‘I really appreciated how it was a ‘no pressure’ environment. I was prepared to contribute to discussion but I was nervous about it and very early on you let us know that there was no pressure and completely optional with no expectations. I was totally engaged throughout – the content and presentation was so well prepared and executed.” Anna, Public Librarian
‘Susan’s insightful 3-day f2f course has not only been of great value professionally but more importantly personally. I was wonderstruck by Susan’s unparalleled knowledge of all things bibliotherapy. The structure, content and delivery of the course was perfect and inspirational – a truly life changing experience. Thank you, Susan.” Kim, Public Library Professional
[Post sponsored by Bibliotherapy Australia]