bibliotherapy

[bib-lee-oh-ther-uh-pee]

noun

Psychiatry.

1. the use of reading as an ameliorative adjunct to therapy.

Other Word Forms

• bibliotherapeutic adjective
• bibliotherapist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of bibliotherapy¹

First recorded in 1915–20; biblio- + therapy

Example Sentences

Bibliotherapy is its own sub-discipline of therapy.

From Los Angeles Times

For less severe cases, Lewis suggests that parents start what psychologists call bibliotherapy, specifically a book called “Uncle Lightfoot Flip That Switch,” about a boy overcoming his fear of the dark.

From New York Times

Books and workbooks: Bibliotherapy is its own sub-discipline of therapy.

From Los Angeles Times

Research on bibliotherapy — the use of books to treat a mental health problem — provides some grounds for hope.

From Salon

Bibliotherapy may be done individually or as part of a group.

From Salon