Quick read about the practice of psychoanalysis. I love taking little peeks into other people's professions and this was perfect for that. ( )

Interesting little book with several chapters in it, like 80+ chapters, all short. I think this was for a less experienced therapist than I though. ( )

Fabulous! ❤️ ( )

THE GIFT OF THERAPY is the culmination of master psychiatrist Dr Irvin Yalom's thirty-five years' work as a therapist, illustrating through real case studies how patients and therapists alike can get the most out of therapy. Presented as eighty-five 'tips' for 'beginner therapists', Yalom shares his own fresh approach and the insights he has gained while treating his patients. Personal, and sometimes provocative, Yalom makes some unorthodox suggestions, including: Let the patient matter to you; Acknowledge your errors; Create a new therapy for each patient; Make home visits; (Almost) never make decisions for a patient; and Freud was not always wrong.

This is an entertaining, informative and insightful read for both beginners and more experienced therapists, patients, students and everyone with an interest in the subject.

I don't know if I agree with Yalom all the time. Everyone who does this line of work (being a therapist) has their own way of practicing therapy, and needs to have their own way of doing it, at least to the degree that they are being themselves.

That said, this book is full of gems. All the angles are covered. There is nuance to the ideas that are presented, but not without occasional pieces of direct, spot on advice. I'd highly recommend it to any therapist at any point in their careers, or to anyone who is thinking about going to therapy for themselves. ( )