Bullshit in Psychotherapy - From an Ego to a Soul Driven Encounter by George Steinfeld Ph. D.

by George Steinfeld

Dr. Steinfeld was educated at New York’s Yeshiva University, and trained in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. However he became disillusioned when this process failed to help patients. He started on his quest for therapeutic truth and discovered it was hard to find in the contexts within which he worked. The best trained supervisors could not help, and there was always a reason for our failures, primarily blaming the patients. He changed his approach, focusing on how to relieve suffering in the most efficient ways and with the most effective approaches. He also discovered that frequently patients resist getting healthy based on their experiences that led to self-sabotaging beliefs. In addition to patient resistance, there is also the problems that therapists bring to their therapeutic encounters, often encouraging a dependent relationship into which the patient buys. There is collusion between therapist and patient to stay stuck. Though therapy has proven to be generally useful, it can also be harmful. Though Dr. Steinfeld developed an holistic approach to therapy, called TARET System, this book focuses on patient-therapist resistances, how to avoid and overcome them quickly. It also suggests that clients and therapists take responsibility for their contributions to therapy failure. Overcoming resistance as rapidly as possible helps clients solve their problems and move on with their lives, sometimes to the chagrin of their therapist.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction

Paperback

First published July 30, 2014

Reviews

[Bren fall in love with the sea. · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I've been with myself, from womb to tomb".

Bullshit in Psychotherapy: From an ego to a soul driven encounter (Kindle Edition)
by George Steinfeld




First off, I will say I know this author very well.

However my enjoyment of this book has nothing to do with that. This is not your standard self help book. Dr. Steinfeld tackles many subjects here, from treatment methods to knowing when and how to ask both the therapist and oneself important questions. He writes in a warm, witty and completely accessible manner. Anyone with an interest in psychology and with an analytical mind will most likely enjoy this book.

In this book we are taken from Dr. Steinfeld's early years as an eager student to his days actually working in his field of choice and through his various jobs in the industry. Through it all what clearly shines is his love of the field in which he works..even when he moves from blindly obedient newcomer to questioning and serious adult. Many methods of treatment are discussed including the EFT method of tapping, which is becoming more and more popular and which I have tried myself with pretty good results.

In closing, I'd rate this a 5 out of 5. It is compelling, introspective and utterly unique. Highly reccomended.

[Evan Micheals · Rating 4 out of 5]

A worthwhile read and the first time in a while I have read a book start to finish without interruption - Part confessional autobiography about areas of the Mental Health industry that fail the consumer, and only serve to maintain the power of those that work within the industry. At times it struck chilling close to home.

Finished with weird "tapping" that he reports provides a faster and less traumatic method in reducing anxiety. Reminded me of a book I read by Elizabeth Kulber-Ross. Those that sometimes have brilliant ideas... have some weird stuff as well. Wisdom allows one to sort the grain from the chaff.

[Bob Hopwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you getting somewhere in your therapy? Whether provider or patient (or both), there's much to think about. Sort through some of the bs and take an honest look.