CATS for writers
Cultivating A Trauma-Sensitive
approach in your writing
Description
CATS for writers is a professional development program for writers engaged with content that is sensitive, explicit or otherwise potentially disturbing. The program covers long-form fiction and non-fiction genres including memoir, auto/biography, autofiction, heritage fiction, self-help, professional and general non-fiction texts.
We explore theoretical approaches to trauma-informed and trauma-sensitive practices; opportunities for confidential debriefing; and practical strategies for dealing with the day-to-day challenges of writing works that expose, explore or otherwise deal with sensitive, disturbing or explicit content.
Aims
- Professional development and personal support for writers who work with sensitive, disturbing or explicit content
- Opportunities for confidential and professional debriefing
- A safe space in which to reflect, learn and grow
Outcomes
At the conclusion of the program, you should be able to:
- Understand the history and key theoretical approaches to trauma-informed practices.
- Apply a trauma-sensitive approach to your writing practice.
- Reflect on the effects of personal and vicarious trauma, and implement self-care strategies to suit your personal needs.
Group sessions
The group sessions are limited to 6–8 writers. The first 2 sessions introduce the CATS methodology and group professional supervision, followed by 2–4 monthly sessions that focus on a single topic followed by group professional supervision. Further group professional supervision can be provided on a fixed-term or ongoing basis, at intervals of 4–6 weeks.
Individual sessions
Professional writers (such as ghostwriters and life writers) need support when working with traumatic content but may be restricted by contractual arrangements such as non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). Individual sessions can be tailored to suit your needs. The first (compulsory) session introduces the writer to the CATS methodology and the practice of one-on-one professional supervision. Further sessions are designed for professional supervision on a fixed-term or ongoing basis, at fortnightly or monthly intervals, depending on project/individual requirements.
Prerequisites
The program is designed to support professional writers in the context of publishing in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. Please note that the time zone is Australian Eastern Standard Time / Daylight Saving Time (AEDT / AEST).
Although you are not required to provide details, it’s important to note that this program is suitable for writers who have current or past experience in writing sensitive/disturbing content. If you’re unsure about the suitability of the program for your specific circumstances, please contact Renée by phone or email.
