The Institute for Poetic Medicine (IPM) was founded in 2005 by poet, author, and educator John Fox, PPM.

His goal was to bring poetry as a healing practice to a wider community. Since 2005 hundreds and hundreds of poetry circles have gathered, each with an emphasis on creating both a safe and creative circle. Participants are guided by experienced Poetic Medicine Facilitators to approach poetry for self-understanding through reading, reflecting, and writing poetry. Sharing within the poetry circle is by invitation and is not necessary or expected.

In addition to poetry circles IPM also offers two options for facilitator training. Our 9-week Peer-Facilitator Training series offers guidance, practice, and feedback for those interested in using the Poetry as a Tool for Wellness series to share poetry circles in their communities. The more in-depth 3-year/3-phase Practitioner of Poetic Medicine training guides students through the process of designing and offering their own poetic medicine programs.

IPM also offers grant opportunities each year for those bringing poetry-as-healer to specific communities free of charge. These are called IPM Poetry Partners.

We invite you to learn more about IPM at our website:

www.poeticmedicine.org

Summit 2026 September 17 Online Event

with The UCSF MERI Center for Humanity in Healthcare