The Interpersonal Problems Workbook: ACT to End Painful Relationship Patterns by Matthew McKay PhD

by Matthew McKay

Do you often lash out at people? Do you let your emotions rule your interactions with others? Do you find it difficult to see things from others’ point of view? You are not alone. Despite the fact that we all have to deal with other people our daily lives, many of us have difficulties with interpersonal relationships.Written by psychologist and bestselling author Matthew McKay, The Interpersonal Problems Workbook combines research and evidence-based techniques for strengthening relationships in all areas in life—whether it’s at home, at work, with a significant other, a parent, or a child. The skills in this workbook are based in both schema therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and are designed to help you connect and communicate effectively with those around them.ACT has been proven effective in helping people improve their relationships with others. The ACT skills detailed in this book include present moment awareness, diffusion, and flexibility—all of which will help you to improve your relationships with others. In this book you will learn what your schema is, and how to act on your values to communicate and get along with others.If you are ready to stop building walls and start connecting with those around you, this book presents powerful, effective tools for change.

Genres: Psychology, Relationships, Nonfiction

Unknown Binding

First published July 1, 2013

About the author

Matthew McKay, PhD, is a professor of psychology at the Wright Institute in Berkeley, and author of more than 30 professional psychology and self-help books which have sold a combined total of more than 3 million copies. He is co-founder of independent self-help publisher, New Harbinger Publications. He was the clinical director of Haight Ashbury Psychological Services in San Francisco for twenty five years. He is current director of the Berkeley CBT Clinic. An accomplished novelist and poet, his poetry has appeared in two volumes from Plum Branch Press and in more than sixty literary magazines. His most recent novel, Wawona Hotel, was
published by Boaz Press in 2008.

Reviews

[Sam Rvn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a usefull workbook. It was so helpfull

[Dr. Chad Newton, PhD-HRD · Rating 5 out of 5]

These four practitioners wrote an effective method of reframing one's hidden beliefs that shape maladaptive schemas. In organizational research, the ACT tool may become useful in transforming leadership and followership behaviors that directly affect turnover rates and performance problems. The text is a self-learning book that allows the learner to overcome his or her tendencies to committ regretted reactions. A required read!

[LL Church · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book had some helpful pointers and was clearly organized, but ultimately I felt that this a fairly light-weight resource for these issues. The majority of the book is cliched mindfulness exercises, which are useful but not revelatory. There are some opportunities for writing and reflection and it offers a another angle to mindfulness based stress reduction/interpersonal problems, but I don’t feel like I did a deep dive into these issues or anything.

[Keri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really appreciated the explanation of various schemas and the exercises provided in this book. The exercises will be helpful working with clients at all levels. I do wish that the workbook would have come with a CD or a weblink to download the exercises.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is for anyone who would like a better understanding of their relationship patterns and how to improve them - therapist or layperson. I use it routinely in session with clients and recommend it highly.

[Dan Stern]

If you struggle with the same old relationship patterns I definitely recommend purchasing this workbook! I have actually seen an improvement in my interpersonal skills, as I am able to be mindful of the maladaptive schemas I have adopted, which subsequently led to my changing some of my behaviors that kept me feeling "stuck." I like the format of this workbook a lot better than many others, as the chapters are short and easy to understand and the activities are relevant and insightful. Highly recommend!

[Cinthia Dennis]

This is a simple book with some good exercises in it for being more aware of your emotions.