Guided Autobiography (GAB) Instructor Training
In coordination with The Birren Center, Online Guided Autobiography (GAB) Instructor Training offers in-depth training for those who want to incorporate the GAB method into their professional practice or earn extra income by teaching Guided Autobiography courses. The online live instructor training is available to individuals worldwide, and over 500 certified instructors worldwide have completed the course. Participants write and share their own two-page life stories on GAB themes throughout the 8-week program while learning how to develop, schedule, publicize, and run GAB groups within their communities.
Throughout the program, you will learn by doing. You will write on the themes and share your written work with your fellow students each week. You will also receive information and suggestions on filling your classes, troubleshooting,, and creating a viable business model. You’ll receive in-depth training on how to conduct your guided autobiography courses, how to teach each module, and how to comment effectively on student narratives. Each class session is 2 hours long, plus a one-hour pre-recorded session, providing 24 hours of advanced instruction and group experience. The course also offers the opportunity to meet face-to-face with the Guided Autobiography Director of the Birren Center, Cheryl Svensson.
Upon finishing the GAB Instructor Training Program, you’ll receive a certificate of completion from The Birren Center for Autobiographical Studies. Learn more about this highly researched method of writing, sharing and preserving life stories and Dr. Birren here.
Can you envision teaching Guided Autobiography in your community? Perhaps you want to incorporate the GAB program into your personal practice. These classes fill up quickly and space is limited to ensure a personalized experience and a small group setting for maximum learning. Register below for the next Instructor Training Session.
GAB Instructor Training
STARTS January 8th, 2025Wednesdays, January 8th - February 26th
10-noon PST/ 1-3 Eastern
FEE: $600 plus $21 for credit card and transaction fees.Hosted via Zoom.
GAB Instructor Training
STARTS March 5, 2025Wednesdays, March 5th - April 23rd
10-noon PST/ 1-3 Eastern
FEE: $600 plus $21 for credit card and transaction fees.Hosted via Zoom.
Questions you may be asking…
What is included in the training?
You’ll participate in a comprehensive program comprising 24 hours of instruction by experienced Guided Autobiography instructors.
You’ll receive all of the teaching materials used during the 8 sessions of training to be used for teaching your own GAB courses.
In addition to the online class time, you’re free to email instructors with any questions that may arise in between sessions.
After you complete your training, the Birren Center and The Story Guides will continue to provide support as you launch your own GAB course. This is a valuable resource that is not usually available with most training courses.
What are prerequisites?
Our goal is to train instructors so that Guided Autobiography can be made available to as many people as possible. Through our growing network of highly trained GAB instructors, thousands worldwide have experienced the power of writing and sharing their life stories. The tuition for the 8 session Guided Autobiography Instructor Training Program has been set at $550. (US currency)
Payments may be made safely with a credit or debit card through our secure PayPal service, the largest and most reliable online payment center in the world.
It is not required that you take a Guided Autobiography course before becoming an instructor, however, it is helpful.
What is the goal of Guided Autobiography?
Guided Autobiography (GAB) strives to bring students and instructors together in a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. The Birren Center welcomes people from all backgrounds. We embrace the full spectrum of humanity, building community by sharing experiences.
What is the format of the workshop?
The program is provided entirely online, so you will be completing it in the comfort of your own home. Classes will be instructed live through a user-friendly, interactive website. You will simply log onto the website at the appointed time, enter your assigned pin number and you’ll instantly be in class. In the interactive program you’ll be able to ask questions while engaging with the instructor and other students. The class sizes are limited so be sure to sign up early.
What are the technical requirements?
In order for you to see and hear the instructors and other students, and for them to be able to see and hear you, you will need a few tools.
Internet Access: You’ll need a computer with Internet access.
Computer: With a built-in microphone.
Webcam: Finally, you’ll need a webcam, built-in or external.
Do you provide technical support?
We have some support that can be provided for those who have not used Zoom before.
Guided Autobiography Instructor class so you can be an instructor too.
“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.”
— Thomas Campbell.
Interested in a Private Group Workshop?
Our small groups are limited to 12 participants. If you have a group of 6 to 12 and would like to have a private group workshop, contact us for a discounted fee and to schedule at our mutual convenience. We have had several private groups do this and it has been a deeper bonding experience.
Kind Words….
“The facilitators were terrific. While we felt like we were in a class situation they were very easy going and open which made it easy for the participants to relax and settle in. Everything was well presented and the class outline encouraged us to write better and share more. The comments we received after our share were motivating”
— Karen Collins. British Columbia, Canada
“If you ever wondered how or where to start writing your own life story, try GAB. It will jump start the process and you will not want to stop..”
—Robert L. Orlando, Florida, USA
“This was an opportunity to explore my life experience, put into words a compelling narrative and share with others. It was healing for me. Deeply listening to other’s experience is enriching as we commonly experience being human in so many ways. .”
— Betty Jean W. Michigan, USA
“From listening to other stories, I became very clear about mood, gesture, intention and visual, sensual aspects of writing”
— Lynne G. British Columbia, Canada