Our Philosophy

Multi Generation Family Facing the Sunset on the Beach

Our Mission:

We believe in the transformative power of life stories to connect generations and build community, bridge diversity, and make us whole - one story at a time. The Birren Center is dedicated to enriching lives through the art of life story writing, sharing, and training.

Get Involved:

Join us in exploring the transformative power of life story writing. Whether you're a seasoned writer or someone just starting their journey, the Birren Center welcomes individuals from all walks of life to be a part of our community.

Code of Ethics

All certified Guided Autobiography (GAB) instructors of the Birren Center for Autobiographical Studies must adhere to the following Code of Ethics, which reflects the core values of our organization. To protect the integrity of our work and safeguard the interests of our clients/participants, all members are expected to:

Conduct Business with Integrity and Fairness

  • Conduct business according to impeccable standards of fairness and integrity.

  • Represent honestly their qualifications, background, and professional affiliations.

  • Provide participants with the highest quality of service possible.

  • Work diligently and with reasonable promptness.

Act in the Best Interests of Clients and the Profession

  • Act in the best interests of the client/participant, and profession.

  • Avoid violations of intellectual property rights (including copyright).

  • Avoid conflicts of interest, activity, or influence.

Respect for Individuals

  • Respect the inherent worth of all persons.

  • Respect participants’ wishes about privacy, confidentiality, and nondisclosure.

  • Respect the right of participants to hold values, beliefs, attitudes, and opinions that differ from their own.

Respect for Diversity

  • Respect cultural, individual, and role differences, including those based on age, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, language, and socioeconomic status.

Professional Conduct

  • Act honorably toward other members of the profession and the field as a whole.

The Birren Center for Autobiographical Studies is not liable for the performance of any Guided Autobiography instructor. All members of the Birren Center affirm that they will adhere to this Code of Ethics. Our GAB instructors set their own fees and policies.