Between Therapist and Client: The New Relationship

by Michael Kahn

Book Overview

Perhaps the most important aspect of the therapeutic process is the relationship between therapist and client. For years, two major schools of thought have strongly disagreed about what the nature of that relationship should be. The humanists emphasized warmth and empathy. The psychoanalysts kept a neutral, cool distance. Recently, however, the beginnings of a reconciliation between these traditions have opened new possibilities for the way therapists...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0805071008
• ISBN13: 9780805071009
• Release Date: September 1997
• Publisher: St. Martins Press-3PL
• Length: 224 Pages
• Weight: 0.41 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.7" x 8.2"

Customer Reviews

A Must on Transference

Michael Kahn's book is, by far, the best treatment of the therapist-client relationship which we call "transference". My professional organization, the American Association of Pastoral Counselors, regularly has workshops on this theme (and counter-transference) at its annual conferences, because as Kahn says, psychotherapy is only as successful as the relationship the therapist has with his client. It amazes me that, to the best of my knowledge, the state prescribed curriculum for psychology here in Florida offers no credit for courses on this topic. Nevertheless, I strongly recommend this book for this crucial subject.

Superb

One of the easiest to read books for social work practice with clients. It was very enjoyable to read and very practical for anyone studying clinical social work on a graduate level.

An essential for the budding therapist

This is a clear, well-written book that examines those elements of the therapist-client relationship which can either be therapeutic or anti-therapeutic. Kahn gives a brief overview of the different perspectives of transference/countertransference and how to use these aspects effectively while avoiding common pitfalls. I strongly recommend this text for beginning graduate students of psychotherapy.

easy and fun read for those who don't know psych basics

I love how Mr. Kahn writes, he takes concepts that are difficult and simplifies them so even though I don't know much about psychology I was able to understand the fascinating theories he outlines.

Wonderful book for anyone learning the art of psychotherapy

As a graduate student newly entering the world of psychotherapy from a professional standpoint, I found Michael Kahn's book a real reading treasure. His explanations of issues such as transference (and countertransference), and the way in which these phenomena have been viewed over time, was interesting to read and valuable learning for any therapist-to-be. He does a beautiful job of taking theoretical information and explaining it in such a way that it can be understood and utilized immediately with clients. Also, Michael brings a personal touch to his book which I found increases it's worth even further. I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in learning about psychotherapy, particularly self-psychology; and I sincerely hope he decides to write more in the future!