Written by psychologist and bestselling author Matthew McKay, The Interpersonal Problems Workbook combines research and evidence-based techniques for strengthening relationships in all areas in lifeOCowhether itOCOs at home, at work, with a significant other, a parent, or a child. The skills in this workbook are based in both schema therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and are designed to help readers connect and communicate effectively with those around them."
Matthew McKay, PhD, is a professor of psychology at the Wright Institute in Berkeley, and author of more than 30 professional psychology and self-help books which have sold a combined total of more than 3 million copies. He is co-founder of independent self-help publisher, New Harbinger Publications. He was the clinical director of Haight Ashbury Psychological Services in San Francisco for twenty five years. He is current director of the Berkeley CBT Clinic. An accomplished novelist and poet, his poetry has appeared in two volumes from Plum Branch Press and in more than sixty literary magazines. His most recent novel, Wawona Hotel, was published by Boaz Press in 2008.
These four practitioners wrote an effective method of reframing one's hidden beliefs that shape maladaptive schemas. In organizational research, the ACT tool may become useful in transforming leadership and followership behaviors that directly affect turnover rates and performance problems. The text is a self-learning book that allows the learner to overcome his or her tendencies to committ regretted reactions. A required read!
This book had some helpful pointers and was clearly organized, but ultimately I felt that this a fairly light-weight resource for these issues. The majority of the book is cliched mindfulness exercises, which are useful but not revelatory. There are some opportunities for writing and reflection and it offers a another angle to mindfulness based stress reduction/interpersonal problems, but I don’t feel like I did a deep dive into these issues or anything.
I really appreciated the explanation of various schemas and the exercises provided in this book. The exercises will be helpful working with clients at all levels. I do wish that the workbook would have come with a CD or a weblink to download the exercises.
This book is for anyone who would like a better understanding of their relationship patterns and how to improve them - therapist or layperson. I use it routinely in session with clients and recommend it highly.
If you struggle with the same old relationship patterns I definitely recommend purchasing this workbook! I have actually seen an improvement in my interpersonal skills, as I am able to be mindful of the maladaptive schemas I have adopted, which subsequently led to my changing some of my behaviors that kept me feeling "stuck." I like the format of this workbook a lot better than many others, as the chapters are short and easy to understand and the activities are relevant and insightful. Highly recommend!