Mastering the Art of Supportive Psychotherapy: A Practical Guide

By John Battaglia, renowned author of Doing Supportive Psychotherapy, this book is a breath of fresh air in the world of psychotherapy textbooks. Tired of dull, formal dialogue and impractical theories? This book is designed to be different, offering a dynamic and informal approach to mastering the art of supportive psychotherapy.

A Realistic and Engaging Approach

The book draws the reader in with its conversational dialogue, taken from real-life case examples, illustrating a wide range of interactions between therapists and patients. The realistic and sometimes imperfect conversations provide a true sense of the therapeutic process, making it easier to learn and relate to.

A Logical and Easy-to-Follow Structure

The book’s underlying structure is logical and easy to grasp, starting with the evolution of supportive psychotherapy and culminating in a chapter on termination. The step-by-step guide to learning psychodynamic formulation makes it easy to progress and practice. The concepts and techniques explored are grounded in psychotherapy literature and evidence-based research, ensuring a solid foundation for learning.

A Humane and Empathetic Perspective

This book acknowledges that psychotherapy is an inexact science and that therapists are human. The process of therapy is a journey, constantly changing and evolving. This approach creates a sense of reassurance, providing a “holding environment” for readers to learn and grow.

A Concise and Essential Resource

Doing Supportive Psychotherapy is a concise and essential resource, designed to teach the essentials of supportive psychotherapy. It’s perfect for readers on the path to becoming psychotherapists, including social workers, family counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Additionally, it serves as a valuable tool for anyone looking to understand patients better and develop strategies for maintaining a good therapeutic alliance.

This spirited book is not just an instructional text but a heartfelt tribute to the art of psychotherapy. With its vigorous and personal prose, the author leaves readers with a sense of empowerment, reminding them that they’re not alone in the complex and wonderful journey of the “talking cure.”

Book Details
Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing
Publication Date: June 17, 2019
Language: English
ISBN: 9781615372621, 9781615372683