The Beginning Psychotherapist's Companion

by Jan Willer

Supportive and encouraging, this book addresses psychotherapists' real-world concerns and provides vital information not covered in current textbooks. Through culturally diverse clinical vignettes, the practical foundations of ethical practice are illustrated, including informed consent, confidentiality, documentation and setting appropriate boundaries. Reassuringly, Jan Willer provides guidance and clarity to early therapeutic tasks such as structuring the first session, making clinical observations, and establishing a therapeutic alliance. The trainee is guided on how and when to refer the client for psychotropic medications and for other physical and mental health care. Crisis management is thoroughly addressed, including suicidality, violence and homicide risk (including Tarasoff issues), child abuse, elder abuse, intimate partner violence and rape. Therapeutic implications of newer technology--social networking sites, e-mail and cell phones--are discussed. Finally, the book attends throughout to the emotional needs and professional development of the beginning therapist. Scholarly, yet down-to-earth, this is the ideal resource for early career psychotherapists.

Genres: Psychology

526 pages, Paperback

First published July 31, 2008

Reviews

[Degan Walters · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit simplistic but a decent primer / base for discussion

[Sarah Skeeters · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing. It covers the things not taught in class - exactly how should you dress? What happens when the supervision relationship goes awry? and so much more. The book provides questions for specific disorders which a therapist can ask in order to gain valuable information. I would recommend this book for any mental health grad student. It is an invaluable resource!

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Touches on virtually every aspect of therapy a beginner therapist might want to have awareness of. Certainly doesn't go deep into any topic, but is the starting point for a lifetime's reflection.

Includes practical information about running a private practice also.


Very useful in writing reflection papers for grad school.