Psychodynamic Counselling in a Nutshell

by Susan Howard

Psychodynamic Counselling in a Nutshell explains in clear, jargon-free style, the concepts at the heart of the psychodynamic approach, and, drawing on case material, describes the therapeutic practice which rests on those ideas. Assuming no previous knowledge of the subject, the book introduces the history of the approach, the key main concepts, and practical techniques used by practitioners. In the first chapter, the author introduces a client, John, whose case is revisited throughout the book, connecting together theory and practice for the reader.  This new and revised edition also now includes new material on supervision, ethics, and Jung, and on outcome research and the most recent developments in the field.  

Genres: Psychology, Counselling

120 pages, Paperback

First published November 22, 2005

Reviews

[Sheryl]

I read this for a counselling course I am taking and found it to be an excellent introduction to psychodynamic counselling, the theory behind which is relatively complex. Psychodynamic theory has its roots in Freud, but has developed significantly since then, which the author makes clear. In the book Susan Howard covers both psychodynamic theory and practice, and lays out how a counselling session would look and feel. She uses a case study that runs throughout the book, an approach which I found helpful as it provided a sense of both familiarity and consistency. Howard also looks at the way in which psychodynamic counselling differs from other therapeutic approaches although her passion for her own approach is clear. Recommended for those just starting out in counselling theory, and those looking to compare and contrast the different approaches.

[Iain McCormick]

Great little introduction to the topic.

[Kris]

This is a GREAT (and succinct) description of psychodynamic counseling! I've been trying to identify the 'lens' through which I view the science world, and techniques that are inline with an evolutionary psychology position, and this clicked! I can't wait to read more about psychodynamic counseling.

[Morgan]

does what it says on the tin a great book for surface reading on a subject or if you just need a quick knowledge hit!

[Damianochka]

really great for beginners