Harnessing and controlling our own narratives can be a source of healing and well-being. Understanding our journeys through stories can bring about internal and external change.

The Akronist, in partnership with Wandering Aesthetics, is hosting a free workshop series that uses creative writing, myths and story circles as a form of expressive therapy. The Power of Stories and Healing takes place Dec. 6, 13 and 20, 5 to 7 p.m. at Akron-Summit County Public Library’s Main Library in downtown Akron. (The Dec. 6 workshop will take place in Room 2AB, updstairs, across from the auditorium.)

While the course is designed for people struggling with post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression and other afflictions, the series will be open to anyone in the community, including artists, writers, health practitioners and counselors.

The series will take participants through creative writing exercises using Joseph Campbell’s “Hero’s Journey” storytelling structure, along with “story circle” exercises, which are geared more toward listening than speaking.

Chris Miller, a communications and investment officer at Akron Community Foundation and Akronist editor, will facilitate the creative writing portion of the series. Kyle Jozsa, director of education for Akron-based theatre company Wandering Aesthetics, will lead the story circles.

The two organizations also co-host the monthly Full Circle Storytelling Series at Jilly’s Music Room (the next Full Circle event is Nov. 30).

For info, contact Chris Miller at cmiller@akroncf.org or just show up to the workshops.