Geva Thole
I learned how important it is to be quiet when others are speaking and how to be comfortable with silence during a conversation.
By Jessica H. Riggs
Geva Thole, a Behavioral Health Specialist and a recent graduate of the Certified Listener Poet training course shares what drew her to TGLP, what she’s currently reading, her favorite poets, and more. Read more of Geva’s writing about poetry, addiction, recovery, and mental health on her Substack Let Me Share With You.
What drew you to The Good Listening Project?
I had been writing some poetry for people through my small writing business, Let Me Write You a Poem. I also work in healthcare as a Behavioral Health Specialist. The Listener Poet course popped up in my Instagram feed one day and I knew it was meant for me. Not only did I want to serve health care workers through their organization, but I knew the writing and listening skills would benefit me at work and in my personal life too. Meeting Jenny and Ravenna confirmed my interest. They were fantastic and so enthusiastic about the program.
What was one takeaway from your training to become a Certified Listener Poet?
I wasn’t a very good listener! I thought I was better than I actually was. I learned how important it is to be quiet when others are speaking and how to be comfortable with silence during a conversation. I’m happy to report my skills are much better now.
How are you using your training in both your personal and professional life?
I have been writing poems for the patients in our inpatient behavioral health program. Patients in our program often come to us with low self-esteem and the validation received through a listening session and poem affirms how they’re feeling. There have been many tears shed as poems are read. Many poets and types of poetry were shared during the training. I have been exploring those and practicing some new forms to improve my writing skills.
What poetry are you currently reading?
I’ve been reading “The Way of Tanka” by Naomi Beth Wakan. Tanka is one of my favorite forms of poetry and this book provides some insights into writing Tanka and many examples to enjoy. Tanka is like solving a fun puzzle for me.
What excites you these days?
I’m planning to attend a writing workshop in Madison, Wisconsin, this summer. My goal is to use the workshop time to begin a verse novel about mental health. I’m excited to start this new venture. I’m also spending a lot of time writing on Substack and growing my poetry business.
Who is your favorite poet?
There are two poets who are capturing my attention these days. Like so many, I’m a huge Mary Oliver fan. Her poem, “The Real Prayers Are Not the Words, But the Attention That Comes First,” is one of my favorites. I’m also enjoying a lot of Kwame Alexander as he writes many verse novels. I’m trying to learn from him.
What advice do you have for folks wanting to become a Certified Listener Poet?
Go for it! You won’t be disappointed. I don’t believe I’ve ever taken a course as well executed as the Certified Listener Poet course. The curriculum is well thought through and prepares you for the Listener Poet journey. Not only are you learning listening and poetry skills, but you’re also forming deep, meaningful relationships with the other students in the course.