Textherapy? This is Lilalab’s Ambitious 10-Month Initiative
Did you know that, according to the Government of the Republic of Slovenia (2022), every third European faces mental health challenges at some point in their life? The constant changes in today’s world have significantly contributed to the rise in mental health issues, particularly among young people aged 14 to 24. Mental fitness — our capacity for resilience, creativity, and adaptability — has become more crucial than ever. As we navigate an increasingly complex world, these skills are vital for effectively handling crises and continuous change. In response to this growing need, we’ve designed a unique workshop that not only enhances conversations and connections but also provides valuable tools for mental well-being.
Unveiling Textherapy: Where Creativity Meets Healing
Our new project's logo desgined by Nina Šturm.
At the heart of our approach is the belief that creativity, especially through writing, can be a powerful tool for healing. That’s why our Textherapy workshop combines creative writing techniques with therapeutic exercises, primarily drawn from Gestalt therapy. This innovative blend not only supports emotional expression but also fosters deep, meaningful connections among participants.
The project, which kicked off on August 19, 2024, is co-funded by the European Union. Over the next 10 months, five dedicated volunteers will undergo specialized training under the guidance of Alja Adam, PhD — a renowned Slovenian poet and Gestalt practitioner. This dynamic team, including our founder Meta Pezdir, psychologist Alenka Pirih, and social pedagogues Maruša Rozman, Ina Molek, and Lara Pezdir, will design and facilitate Textherapy workshops across Slovenia, bringing this transformative experience to five cities and one online session.
Join Us on This Journey: Workshop Schedule & Goals
Our project is more than just a series of workshops; it’s a movement aimed at bringing innovative mental health support to Slovenia’s more remote areas. Our key goals include:
Empowering Volunteers: Train a team of five volunteers to independently lead creative-consultative workshops through hands-on experience and expert instruction.
Innovative Mental Health Support: Develop a workshop that uses creative writing methods to support mental health, offering a new resource for educators and communities.
Reaching Remote Areas: Deliver these innovative workshops to geographically underserved regions, ensuring access to mental health support across Slovenia.
Fostering Creativity and Connection: Inspire participants to integrate creative writing into their daily lives and strengthen intergenerational ties within their communities.
Raising Awareness: Spark a national conversation on the power of writing to support mental health and build essential life skills like empathy, literacy, and creativity.
Our Textherapy workshops will take place as follows:
November: Notranje Gorice
December: Vrhnika
January: Logatec
February: Idrija & online
March: Črni Vrh
Stay Connected and Get Involved
Follow the project on Instagram @tekstoterapija
We invite you to join us on this exciting journey of creativity and healing. Whether you attend a workshop in person or online, you’ll gain valuable insights and tools to support your mental well-being. Follow our progress, key takeaways, and workshop designs, which will be published in May 2025.
Stay in touch and follow us on Instagram @tekstoterapija to stay updated on all project developments and upcoming events.
Read more about the project here (in Slovenian).
The project is co-funded by the European Union. The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the European Union or the National Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
