The American Library Association quotes this definition:
Bibliotherapy: The use of selected reading materials as therapeutic adjuvants in medicine and psychiatry; also guidance in the solution of personal problems through directed reading. (AHIL Quarterly, Summer 1966, p. 18.)
Basically, bibliotherapy is the use of reading materials (in print or online) as part of a therapeutic process. It can be self-directed or done with the guidance of a mental health professional, such as a counselor or therapist. It is a way that an individual can get more from their therapeutic practice, dig deeper on their own, and engage in relevant material between sessions in order to learn and reflect.
The Office of Wellness Education promotes a campus culture in which every student is given the support, education, opportunities and encouragement necessary to actively prioritize their health and wellness. Their website also has more information about all of these dimensions of wellness. You can contact the the team at wellnesseducation@merrimack.edu or follow them on social media: Facebook Twitter Instagram
The Counseling Center provides confidential mental health and counseling services. All services are free of charge for enrolled Merrimack students and the office is located on the third floor of the Sakowich Student Center.
The Counseling Center offers teletherapy services only. Please call us at 978-837-5444 to schedule an appointment via Zoom. To receive support after hours call 978-837-5444 to be connected to the BeWell@MC 24/7 Support Line.
If you need a secure and confidential space for teletherapy services, please let us know when you schedule your appointment. Private spaces are located at The Counseling Center and are also available for students using outside counseling services.
For any emergencies: If you're on campus, call campus police at 978-837-5911. If you're off campus, Call 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency room.