Writing Biography

Writing has always been second nature to Shelly, like an activity of daily living. With personal gratification as her primary reason for creating poems, stories, biographical sketches, etc., she never made a serious effort to become a published writer despite the urging of others. As she approaches her mid-thirties with a lifetime of knowledge, experience, and introspection, she is ready to use her writing to connect the hearts and minds of others. Foremost on her list is publishing her series of nursery rhymes portraying various ocean animals with different disabilities. She uses them when speaking to schools and church audiences about disability awareness issues and believes they are beneficial when exploring societal diversity with individuals of all ages.

Writing is a vital part of my life. Whenever I am in a meeting, eating dinner, relaxing, or even sitting at a stoplight, I always have a pen in my hand to jot down my thoughts and ideas for later expansion. Writing is a big part of who I am. I cannot imagine life without writing.

I began creative writing as soon as I learned how to put words on to paper. This involved making up short stories about the wishes I had when I was eight years old.

Whether I am using poetry, journaling, fiction, or nonfiction pieces, there is always an element of personal truth underlying the message. In this way, I am able to process pertinent events while using my creativity through a productive outlet.

Around age 11, I had my first poem published. Several pieces were displayed in hospitals and newsletters during my early teens. Unfortunately, I resisted submitting any writing for the past ten years with the intent of having a book published.

Other than creative writing courses in college, I have taught myself how to write. Sometimes it's better to write from your heart instead of following a course manual.

As a psychotherapist, I frequently incorporate journaling, bibliotherapy, poetry therapy, etc. in my sessions with clients. It's easier to discuss hurtful emotions when focusing attention towards a poem or a story instead of solely describing one's feelings. People seem more likely to let their defenses down, which allows authenticity to come through.

Also, I use my nursery rhyme-type poetry to explain disabilities to children by using language that they can understand. Finally, I use technical writing in my profession with grant proposals, article submissions, etc.

Being a Licensed Mental Health Counselor/Certified Rehabilitation Counselor allows me to implement my hobbies & interests into my daily life. I love communicating with people, whether through vocalizing, creative writing, and body language. My specialization is helping people actively dream about how they would like their life, then design and follow a life plan to make these dreams a reality. Though counseling, expressive therapy such as journal writing, and support groups, I help people replace their perceived limitations with the confidence and excitement to travel their pathway to success.

Other interests include reading, writing, traveling, animals, and photography. I have implemented all of my passions into my "work" as a therapist and enjoy helping others combine their interests and career as well.


	Shelly Weiss, M.S., Ed.S. \| home Writing Biography Personal Biography Writing has always been second nature to Shelly, like an activity of daily living. With personal gratification as her primary reason for creating poems, stories, biographical sketches, etc., she never made a serious effort to become a published writer despite the urging of others. As she approaches her mid-thirties with a lifetime of knowledge, experience, and introspection, she is ready to use her writing to connect the hearts and minds of others. Foremost on her list is publishing her series of nursery rhymes portraying various ocean animals with different disabilities. She uses them when speaking to schools and church audiences about disability awareness issues and believes they are beneficial when exploring societal diversity with individuals of all ages. Personal Statement Writing is a vital part of my life. Whenever I am in a meeting, eating dinner, relaxing, or even sitting at a stoplight, I always have a pen in my hand to jot down my thoughts and ideas for later expansion. Writing is a big part of who I am. I cannot imagine life without writing. (C) - When did you start creating artwork or performing? What motivated you to begin?* I began creative writing as soon as I learned how to put words on to paper. This involved making up short stories about the wishes I had when I was eight years old. (D) - Describe your techniques and how you incorporate your media/discipline* Whether I am using poetry, journaling, fiction, or nonfiction pieces, there is always an element of personal truth underlying the message. In this way, I am able to process pertinent events while using my creativity through a productive outlet. (E) - How long have you been exhibiting or performing professionally?* Around age 11, I had my first poem published. Several pieces were displayed in hospitals and newsletters during my early teens. Unfortunately, I resisted submitting any writing for the past ten years with the intent of having a book published. (F) - If you have formal art training in your discipline, what school(s) did you attend?* Other than creative writing courses in college, I have taught myself how to write. Sometimes it's better to write from your heart instead of following a course manual. Briefly describe the programs, training or other activities you do. As a psychotherapist, I frequently incorporate journaling, bibliotherapy, poetry therapy, etc. in my sessions with clients. It's easier to discuss hurtful emotions when focusing attention towards a poem or a story instead of solely describing one's feelings. People seem more likely to let their defenses down, which allows authenticity to come through. Also, I use my nursery rhyme-type poetry to explain disabilities to children by using language that they can understand. Finally, I use technical writing in my profession with grant proposals, article submissions, etc. Counseling Bio Being a Licensed Mental Health Counselor/Certified Rehabilitation Counselor allows me to implement my hobbies & interests into my daily life. I love communicating with people, whether through vocalizing, creative writing, and body language. My specialization is helping people actively dream about how they would like their life, then design and follow a life plan to make these dreams a reality. Though counseling, expressive therapy such as journal writing, and support groups, I help people replace their perceived limitations with the confidence and excitement to travel their pathway to success. Other interests include reading, writing, traveling, animals, and photography. I have implemented all of my passions into my "work" as a therapist and enjoy helping others combine their interests and career as well.