This provocative book challenges two of psychology's primary assumptions: 1) clients get better due to the power of techniques and 2) psychotherapy is a scientific discipline that functions in fundamental reality.

In Practicing Psychotherapy in Constructed Reality: Ritual, Charisma, and Enhanced Client Outcomes, Stephen Bacon charts a radical and provocative new direction forward for psychotherapy. Based on the research finding that techniques have no inherent power, and the insights of constructionism, Bacon explores new ways of understanding therapeutic rituals, therapist charisma, and client-centered therapy. Special emphasis is given to an analysis of the work of master therapists, and all of the concepts are illustrated with numerous clinical examples. Finally, Bacon develops a geography of constructed reality which pragmatically supports deliberate practice and therapist mindfulness.

An overview of this branch of psychotherapy through an examination of the historical, philosophical, and ideological aspects, as well as discussion of specific clinical practices and actual case studies. Includes transcripts from therapeutic sessions. The authors work in family therapy in Chicago. Annotation copyright by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Explores the possibilities for the therapeutic process of adopting a social constructionist perspective. Topics covered in this text include the theoretical basis for social constructionist therapy, and various approaches in practice, such as irreverant therapy and the not-knowing therapist.

Higher Reality Therapy combines ancient and more recent philosophical traditions - both Eastern and Western - with modern psychology and newly emerging forms of spiritual practice. This book offers a fruitful alternative to people who have not been helped by conventional psychotherapy.

"The Practice of Reality Therapy" explains Reality Therapy in such a way that the reader can begin to practise the different components that make up this powerful counselling modality. The author pays attention to the process of learning to counsel and this, together with the many useful exercises, will be of interest to anyone engaged in counsellor training. The book contains a clear explanation of Choice Theory psychology, the theoretical foundation for Reality Therapy. This is a companion book to the author's "The Practice of Choice Theory Psychology".

A comprehensive, in-depth exploration of the origins, contemporary developments, and applications to practice related to each major counseling theory Fully revised and updated, Counseling and Psychotherapy Theories in Context and Practice, Second Edition is complete with useful learning aids, instructions for ongoing assessment, and valuable case studies—all designed to facilitate comprehension and lead to effective, ethical practice. The Second Edition features: New chapters on Family Systems Theory and Therapy as well as Gestalt Theory and Therapy Extended case examples in each of the twelve Theory chapters A treatment planning section that illustrates how specific theories can be used in problem formulation, specific interventions, and potential outcomes assessment Deeper and more continuous examination of gender and cultural issues An evidence-based status section in each Theory chapter focusing on what we know from the scientific research with the goal of developing critical thinking skills A new section on "Outcome Measures" that provides ideas on how client outcomes can be tracked using practice-based evidence Showcasing the latest research, theory, and evidence-based practice, Counseling and Psychotherapy Theories in Context and Practice, Second Edition is an engaging and illuminating text. "John and Rita Sommers-Flanagan have done it again! In the revised Second Edition of their popular book, they have masterfully organized and written a compelling text that will appeal to students and faculty alike. The Second Edition is thoroughly pragmatic with careful attention to research and evidence-based literature. Much to the delight of readers, extensive case analyses that illustrate major theoretical concepts abound." —Sherry Cormier, PhD, Professor Emerita, West Virginia University, coauthor of Interviewing and Change Strategies for Helpers "John and Rita Sommers-Flanagan have written an exceptionally practical text for students wishing to learn usable counseling principles. Their excellent scholarship is balanced by a superb treatment of counseling theory that includes a review of the strengths, limitations, and means for implementing the systems represented." —Robert Wubbolding, EdD, Professor Emeritus, Xavier University; Director, Center for Reality Therapy; author of Reality Therapy (Theories of Psychotherapy Series) "This introductory text is written with extraordinary care and attention to detail. Not only is it one of the best resources I know of for in-depth coverage of classical therapeutic theory, it is also one of the best at illuminating cutting-edge developments, both in theory and application. Readers will greatly benefit from the clarity, comprehensiveness, and personal perceptiveness of this engaging introductory guide." —Kirk J. Schneider, PhD, Faculty, Saybrook University; Vice President, Existential-Humanistic Institute; coauthor of Existential-Humanistic Therapy and editor of Existential-Integrative Psychotherapy