The Therapeutic Environment (Core Concepts in Therapy) - Softcover

Hazler, Richard J.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0335202829 ISBN 13: 9780335202829

Publisher: Open University Press, 2001

Synopsis

Psychology bookshelves are filled with texts on different theories of how to do therapy and why one specific theory will work better than all the others. Yet the fact is research proves over and over again that all theories can work under the right conditions. This book takes a unique look at the specifics of those conditions that are facilitative to all forms of therapy, and how they are identified in different theories.

The diverse experiences and viewpoints of an American humanistic therapist and a British psychodynamic therapist are brought together to explore the essential conditions needed for therapy to succeed. Extensive use of first-hand examples and thorough academic support combine to create vivid text, a sound theoretical base and practical therapeutic applications. The opening chapters draw on substantial research evidence which suggests that all theoretical approaches are equally effective in the hands of good therapists. It proposes that an important factor contributing to this effectiveness is the environment in which therapy is practised. Three central chapters give in-depth explorations of the unique ways in which the broad theoretical orientations of Psychodynamic, Existential-Humanistic, and Cognitive-Behavioural deal with the philosophy, labelling, function, perspective and implementation of a facilitative environment. A concluding chapter synthesizes information from these diverse orientations to identify core commonalities and critical differences between how therapists from different theoretical persuasions develop common understandings, maintain working client relationships and regulate their personal involvement in therapy.

About this title

About the Author

Richard Hazler is Professor of Counsellor Education at Ohio University. He has years of experience as an instructor and as a counsellor in schools, prisons, the military and private practice. His training and background has lead to numerous articles and books that emphasize a humanisitic orientation to the theory and practice of therapy.

Nick Barwick works as a Counsellor at the The Guildhall School of Music and Drama, London and has lectured on psychodynamic perspectives at a number of higher and further education institutions. He is Associate Editor of Psychodynamic Counselling.

Edition details

• Publisher: Open University Press
• Publication date: 2001
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0335202829
• ISBN 13: 9780335202829
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 160