Customer Reviews

Beyond Empathy: A Therapy of Contact-in Relationships

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The rare volume it is that serves as a clear exposition of the art and craft of psychotherapy. Beyond Empathy illuminates integrative psychotherapy, a theory and method of relational treatment, as useful for the seasoned practitioner as for the beginning therapist.

A basic premise of the authors is that psychological health and growth rest upon the foundation of the quality of our relationships. Bringing into awareness interruptions to contact within the self and with others is a main focus of treatment. Through the skillful use of inquiry, attunement and involvement, the integrative psychotherapist works to bring the client into full relational contact.

The authors identify and explain in depth eight relational needs: security, valuing, acceptance, mutuality, self-definition, making an impact, having the other initiate, expressing love. They posit that these needs are present in every relationship and, in fact, define a relationship. An integral part of the therapeutic framework is the valuing of the functions of the client's coping mechanisms and defenses. The authors believe that only through this valuing does the client become willing to let go of old patterns (fixed gestalten), that were once psychologically protective and now are maladaptive and anachronistic. Deepening the understanding of what other therapies may see as therapeutic impasse, the important concept of justaposition is explained; that is, progress may be slowed due to the marked contrast between what is provided in the therapeutic relationship and what was needed and longed for, but not provided in prior important relationships.

Beyond Empathy goes beyond theory to extrapolate a theory of methods. These methods serve to deepen the client's affective experience, enhancing heart-to-heart contact in relationship. This builds uppon Erskine & Moursund's prior work, Integrative Psychotherapy in Action (Gestalt Journal Press, 1998), which is organized primarily around a theory of therapy and provides extensive transcripts of live work. The live transcripts in this volume also include a detailed look at the therapists' interventions. They are good companion volumes.

Whether you plan to use this as a text or a reference book, it is an essential adddition to any clinician's library. It is the culmination of decades of clinical expertise, original thought, and synthesis of concepts drawn from the best traditions of theory and practice of psychotherapy. It offers a clarity, usability and elegance not often found in writings in this field---it will not sit idly on your shelf!

This is one of my favorite books. The "menu of questions" is extremely helpful for anyone who wants to be a good listener.