Essential Psychotherapies: Theory and Practice

by Stanley B. Messer (Editor), Alan S. Gurman (Editor)

The leading survey text for basic psychotherapy courses, this book offers authoritative, engaging presentations of the 12 most important forms of psychotherapy practiced today. Prominent experts cover traditional treatments as well as influential models that have been developed relatively recently, giving students and practitioners a solid grasp of foundational theories, techniques, and research. Each chapter follows a common set of organizational guidelines; features illustrative vignettes and a full case example; and concludes with readings and resources to guide further study.  New to This Edition *Incorporates the latest clinical developments and research.*Chapter on "third-wave" behavior therapies.*Each chapter has expanded discussions of the role of the therapeutic relationship and the use of evidence-based practices.*Concise chapters make the book even more instructor and student friendly.

Genres: Social Work, Mental Health, School, Psychology

516 pages, Hardcover

First published March 11, 2011

Reviews

[Kirill Igumenshchev · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is more of an overview of therapies with a large number of references. It does give a cutting-edge overview of the field. I found part IV to be most interesting -- it goes into other influential models of therapeutic practice.

I didn't get much useful hands-on practical information; the book is more of a starting point from which the reader can dive into references. The biggest benefit of this book is to see what are current and time-tested practices and what are the other options when cbt doesn't work.

[Marina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely a helpful overview for a introduction, and they have some nice parallel structure to the chapters going on, which is helpful. However, it is a bit repetitive and didn't cover quite as many therapies as I expected, and didn't give much opportunity for self-critique. This book won't make you an expert in anything, but you'll get enough basics to recognize names and general ideas.

[Candace Marshall · Rating 3 out of 5]

A decent overview of psychotherapy approaches.

[Zaïra · Rating 3 out of 5]

read in part