Relational Theory and the Practice of Psychotherapy

by Paul L. Wachtel

This important and innovative book explores a new direction in psychoanalytic thought that can expand and deepen clinical practice. Relational psychoanalysis diverges in key ways from the assumptions and practices that have traditionally characterized psychoanalysis. At the same time, it preserves, and even extends, the profound understanding of human experience and psychological conflict that has always been the strength of the psychoanalytic approach. Through probing theoretical analysis and illuminating examples, the book offers new and powerful ways to revitalize clinical practice.

See also Wachtel's Therapeutic Communication, Second Knowing What to Say When, an integrative, practical guide for therapists of all orientations.
 

Genres: Psychology, Counselling, Nonfiction

338 pages, Paperback

First published December 14, 2007

About the author

Paul L. Wachtel, PhD, is CUNY Distinguished Professor in the doctoral program in clinical psychology at City College and the Graduate Center of the City University of New York. He received his doctorate in clinical psychology from Yale University and is a graduate of the postdoctoral program in psychoanalysis and psychotherapy at New York University, where he is also a faculty member. Dr. Wachtel has lectured and given workshops throughout the world on psychotherapy, personality theory, and the applications of psychological theory and research to the major social issues of our time. He has been a leading voice for integrative thinking in the human sciences and was a co-founder of the Society for the Exploration of Psychotherapy Integration. Dr. Wachtel is a recipient of the Hans H. Strupp Memorial Award for psychoanalytic writing, teaching, and research; the Distinguished Psychologist Award from Division 29 (Psychotherapy) of the American Psychological Association (APA); and the Scholarship and Research Award from Division 39 (Psychoanalysis) of APA.

Reviews

[cate · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read for college

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this book is excellent and does a very nice job of cogently explaining a more relational approach to a wide ranging audience (classicists as well as behavioral therapists, etc.) Overall, Wachtel explains relational theory while also providing tantalizing and thoughtful clinical examples.