What is Bibliotherapy? Psychology Today calls it "...a therapeutic approach employing books and other forms of literature, typically alongside more traditional therapy modalities, to support a patient’s mental health...bibliotherapists typically make use of fiction." 

In the 2025 Whatcom READS selection No Two Persons, we see characters who are impacted, and even healed by reading the same book. In this virtual program we'll hear from Emely Rumble, LCSW, a distinguished licensed clinical social worker, school social worker, and seasoned bibliotherapist and psychotherapist with over 14 years of professional experience. Committed to making mental health services more accessible, Emely specializes in the transformative practice of bibliotherapy. 

Passionate about advocating for the integration of creative arts in psychotherapy, mental well-being, and self-improvement, Emely champions the social model of disability and embraces a neurodiversity-affirming therapeutic approach. A distinguished member of The National Association of Poetry Therapy, Emely's work has been featured in respected publications such as Parents Magazine, ‘School Library Journal’, Bold Journey Magazine, BronxNet News, Success Magazine, and The Bronx Is Reading. Her debut book 'Bibliotherapy in The Bronx' releases on April 29 2025 with Row House Publishing.

Emely shares her expertise beyond traditional avenues through @Literapy_NYC, her dedicated platform on Instagram, TikTok, and Podia, where she provides valuable educational content.

Having earned her undergraduate degree from Mount Holyoke College and completed her social work degree at Smith College School for Social Work, Emely resides in Western Massachusetts with her husband, two children, and her psychiatric service dog, Montana. She embodies a holistic and compassionate approach to mental health and well-being.

This event will take place on Zoom and registration is required.