Description
Book SynopsisThis book, written by a client, challenges the power of theory and ask questions which deserve to be aired, and in so doing presents a powerful and articulate appeal for greater sensitivity, a critical view and better practice.
Trade Review'Psychotherapeutic literature abounds with therapists' descriptions of the therapeutic process and with theoretical explanations of ideal psychotherapy. Only in recent years have consumers begun to add their voice to the literature. As Anna Sands' book shows, the perspective of the consumer may be quite different from that of the published practitioner. Falling for Therapy is a powerful addition to this material; it shows not only that a corrective perspective is sorely needed but that consumers can be every bit as articulate and perceptive as therapists - perhaps more so. Anna Sands' book should be required reading for all psychotherapists and counsellors, as well as by intending, questioning or dissatisfied consumers' - Colin Feltham, Sheffield Hallam University 'Based on her experiences of two very different psychotherapists the author has used her passionate feelings about the encounters to make a sane and intelligent criticism of rigidly applied technical methods. In her view the nearer psychotherapy approaches normal conversation the better it is likely to be - a belief that I, for one, would readily endorse' - Peter Lomas, author of Doing Good? Psychotherapy out of its Depth 'In this engagingly intelligent, highly readable and timely book, Sands carries forward to new levels the vitally important task started by Ann France and Rosie Alexander, of therapy clients daring to talk back to therapy - in the process showing we therapists that we have at least as much to learn from clients' views on therapy as they have to learn from us. Falling for Therapy should be mandatory reading on all therapy training courses - indeed, for all practising therapists, especially psychodynamic ones, and however experienced they may be. In my view, the extent to which this does or does not happen will strongly indicate whether psychotherapy and counselling are yet sufficiently open or mature to deserve their increasingly sought-after status of recognised, legitimate 'professions.' - Richard House, counsellor and Steiner Waldorf teacher, author of Limits to Professionalised Therapy 'In advocating a deeply human(e), creative approach to therapy, Sands' description offers us - if we are able to hear it - an invaluable cautionary reminder about what can happen when a practitioner-and Therapy-centred ideology threatens to obscure the source of what is truly healing within a genuinely helping encounter.' - European Journal of Psychotherapy, Counselling & Health 'Anna Sands' book is a valuable addition to the gradually increasing literature on psychotherapy from the client's view, a perspective much needed by the psychotherapy world if not always welcomed as such... Anna Sands' brave, passionate, intelligent and fair account of therapy, I would recommend not only to clients and intending clients but to intending and practicing counsellors and therapists.' - Self and Society 'I have found it of great interest, particularly as a testimony to what is helpful and harmful to clients. I shall certainly refer to it in future.' - Emmy van Deurzen Director, New School of Psychotherapy and Counselling 'It seems to me a very intelligent, perceptive and well informed - not to say accurate - appraisal of psychotherapy. I certainly wish the author every success.' - David Smail 'Sands puts forward a fascinating and powerful case against therapy. So rarely is the client's voice heard. Anyone who's had a frightful experience with therapy (I've had four) will devour this with relish.' - Virginia Ironside, The Week
Table of ContentsWhat's the Problem?.- Beginnings and Endings.- Theory... and Practice.- Who Calls the Tune?.- The Power of Language.- Blind Alleys.- Transference: Cure or Catch 22?.- In the Dark Room.- Burning Bridges.- Survival of the Fittest?.- The Compulsion to Repeat: Who Needs What?.- The Problem of Attachment.- When Therapy Traumatises.- The Straitjacket of 'Analysis'.- Responsibility.- Accountability.- The Healing Art?.- Will You, Won't You....Won't You Join the Dance?.- Appendix.
