This is a new format, an approach developed by a GAB instructor who is also a clinical psychologist, and it’s intended to provide more space for in-depth discussions of themes developed with therapy in mind.

This is not my intention. GAB can be therapeutic but I, like most GAB instructors, am not a therapist. However, I really like this notion of a short day session. For many, committing to attend sessions over several weeks can be difficult—we all seem to have so many commitments. I’ve been leaning toward offering full-day sessions for awhile now but full days, especially when they’re online, can be tiring.

Short day sessions, of some 4 to 4 ½ hours, are very doable and, yes, they offer more space for discussion and for activities that allow for more social interaction. I foresee sessions that will include a gathering activity, flash writing, and in-depth sharing of theme-based writing. Participants will be sent the theme and accompanying memory-stimulating questions one week before.

I’m going to offer two GAB (short day) Sessions in September:

• One that follows the GAB approach, which focuses exclusively on feedback about the experience being shared. This is particularly good for beginner writers and/or those who do not want critical writing feedback. This will be a 4-hour session. and will cost $79.

• One that is designed for more experienced writers for whom improving the craft of writing is a goal and who are seeking more craft-specific feedback.