Customer Reviews

Zen and the Heart of Psychotherapy

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I highly recommend this book for anyone who practices psychotherapy and who truly wants to be 'engaged' in a genuine process with their clients. Zen and the Heart of Psychotherapy uncovers a process of mutual growth and transformation that can occur for both the client AND the therapist using basic Zen principles and ideas. This book does not get encumbered in Eastern ambiguity or unnecessary and technical Buddhist semantics. Regardless of your or your client's spiritual belief system, the ideas presented can be considered universally and are useful in not only forging a strong therapeutic alliance in the here and now, but also for faciliating growth, transformation and healing of mind, body and spirit.

I have read both of Mark Epstein's books on buddhism and psychotherapy, as well as David Brazier's book. No offense intended to those authors, but Rosenbaum's book was by far the most exceptional one. While his liberal use of zen terms might be a little off-putting to 'pure' therapists, the messages conveyed should be extremely helpful, both for working with clients and in learning to live more fulfilling lives ourselves. While the book is directed mainly toward therapists, clients (and everyone else, for that matter)would likely be drawn in as well. Therapists intrigued by Rosenbaum's book should also check out "Acceptance and Commitment Therapy" by Hayes, Strosahl,& Wilson.

Such a great book! It refreshes me and reminds me of the power of being present. A must read for all mental health therapists.