Emotion-focused therapy /

This revised edition is part of the American Psychological Association's "Theories of Psychotherapy Series," which offers complete and useful overviews of the major theories of psychotherapy in the US. In this work, Greenberg (emer., York Univ., Canada), the founder of emotion-focused therapy (EFT), describes how emotional literacy (combining reason and emotion) is key to healthy adult development, and that therapists function in part as "emotional coaches." EFT intends to help clients learn to experience, identify, and process emotions so that they can regulate, use, and transform them through a reflective process; these processes are considered basic skills essential to change. The volume includes chapters on the theory, the therapeutic process, evaluation, research, and future developments of EFT. Greenberg concludes by addressing the critiques of EFT, discussing whether it is appropriate for all clinical populations, and the challenges of its application in different cultures. He promotes its wider use in therapy training programs and training for adults working with youth in various settings. A glossary, a list of suggested readings, and thorough references are also included. The series uniquely offers accompanying DVDs of therapy sessions, providing excellent opportunities for classroom instruction and professional development. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above; faculty and professionals. --Deborah L. Loers, Akoan Consulting