Writing Trauma in Memoir and Story with David Roland

Learn how trauma shapes memory, language and narrative, and how to write the arc of post-traumatic growth in memoir and story.

This trauma-informed workshop is designed for writers and memoirists who seek to explore and express personal or witnessed trauma with care, skill, and authenticity. Through guided writing exercises, reflective practices, and thoughtful discussion, participants will learn how to portray trauma, healing and post-traumatic growth, and maintain emotional well-being while writing difficult truths. Ideal for those ready to tell powerful, honest stories that tap into vulnerability and resilience.

Learning outcomes

In this workshop, you will:

• Understand how trauma plays out in memory and psychology.
• Learn how to write a traumatic scene, drawing on sensory details (what you saw, heard, felt), and to write in third-person or from a distance if first-person feels overwhelming.
• Write a moment of turning, such as an insight, a release, a connection, or a new skill.
• Consider ethical considerations such as: whose story is this? Am I ready to share it? And if memoir, have I considered how this might impact those involved?
• Discover what personal self-care considerations you need to feel safe while writing.

Format

This is an in-person workshop with a focus on craft; it will be held at State Library of Queensland. This workshop is suitable for writers of all levels and writing backgrounds.

About David

David Roland is a psychologist, forest bathing guide, and writer with a PhD in clinical psychology. He has authored three books: The Confident Performer, How I Rescued My Brain, and The Power of Suffering. He also contributes to electronic media and frequently chairs at the Byron Writers’ Festival.
             

For more information about Queensland Writers Centre’s Program of Events and answers to FAQs, please visit: www.queenslandwriters.org.au/program-info