Jennie Chapman Linthorst is the founder of LifeSPEAKS Poetry Therapy, providing insight and guidance for people of all ages seeking an outlet through expressive writing. Jennie has facilitated poetry therapy workshops at UC Irvine Extension, the University of Santa Monica, and in retirement homes and women’s centers. In addition to her workshops, Jennie works privately with individuals and parents exploring their personal histories through reading and writing poetry. 

Jennie holds a BA in Psychology from Skidmore College, and has completed her certification as a Certified Applied Poetry Facilitator from the National Association of Poetry Therapy. In 2011, she received her Master’s degree in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica, emphasizing the evolution of human consciousness.

Jennie wrote about her own journey as a mother of a child with special needs in her book of poems, Autism Disrupted: A Mother’s Journey of Hope.  Her poetry and essays have been featured online at Hopeful Parents, Our Journey Through Autism, WOW! Women on Writing, Sensory Flow, and The Gift: A Blog for Caregivers of Sensational Children, and others.

The compelling story of her son’s diagnosis of autism and sensory processing disorder, and the success with early intervention therapies is captured in the award-winning documentary film Autistic-Like: Graham’s Story. www.autisticlike.com.

Today, Jennie coaches clients all across the country and around the world via phone, Skype, and email, in addition to in person meetings. Jennie lives in Manhattan Beach, California with her husband Erik, and their son Graham. She is a native of Knoxville, TN.

Acceptance — by Jennie Chapman Linthorst

Something shifted this past year,
a settling down in my soul.
My thoughts are not exclamations points anymore.
It seems easier to breathe,
and have a peaceful patience for what is yet to come.

I see that I am not the one in charge
of the world as it spins around me.

It is not my responsibility
to change my son's future path,
to make my husband's career a success,
to prove my worthiness
to this world.

I can only control
the peace and pace of my days.

I love the saying
that every person is doing the best they can
right now with the sensibility and belief systems
they have in place at the present moment.

I was always able to feel
compassion and empathy
toward others.

Finally,
I experiment with them
on myself.