Lisa Raphael, Ph.D. is a certified guided autobiography instructor from the Birren Center for Autobiographical Studies
“Transformative power of life stories to connect generations and build community, bridge diversity, and make us whole - one story at a time.”
— Birren Center for Autobiographical Studies
In Person or Virtual Sessions: 2 hour weekly classes with creative, purposeful activities. Sessions are typically 5-weeks but customizable to the group.
Writing: In-between classes, you will write your 1- 2 page stories guided by in-class writing prompts and discussions
Supportive Story Sharing: Each week, in the second half of our class, you’ll share your words in a supportive community where encouragement flows, confidentiality is honored, and every voice is appreciated.
“We are important and our lives are important, magnificent really, and their details are worthy to be recorded.” - Natalie Goldberg
Collection of personally meaningful stories: By the end of the class, you will have at least a 10-page story documenting important aspects of your life. You can expand on your life story, give it as a gift to family members, or treasure it for yourself.
Creative and personal reflection: Opportunity to engage creatively in a variety of activities, and personally reflect on your life - what matters most to you and where you hope to go next.
Community of support: Offers an affirming space to sit in community with others and receive gentle, supportive feedback.