Psychotherapy and Personal Change: Two Minds in a Mirror

Psychotherapy and Personal Change: Two Minds in a Mirror explores the dynamic between patients and therapists during talk therapy, revealing the unconscious and exposing the conscious mind. It explores the therapists personal insights and how they interact with the patients, causing them to ask questions of each other and themselves. The book emphasizes that therapy is not passive and that the patient must be personally involved with the therapist to gain insight into themselves.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 170 pages
Publication date: 24 December 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Psychotherapy and Personal Change: Two Minds in a Mirror offers a unique and captivating exploration of the transformative power of psychotherapy, delving into the intricate dynamics between patients and therapists. This book provides readers with a candid and moment-by-moment account of the profound transformations that occur during talk therapy, challenging the complacent and conscious mind and unveiling the unconscious. It is a profound revelation of how the therapists' own memories, feelings, and doubts often play a significant role in the healing process, alongside those of the patients.

In the course of therapy, the therapist and the patient engage in a profound reflection on each other and on themselves. As the therapist develops empathy for the patient, and the patient builds trust in the therapist, their shared memories, feelings, and associations intertwine, creating a complex tapestry of interactions. This intricate dance prompts both the therapist and the patient to ask profound questions of each other and themselves, leading to a deeper understanding of their inner selves.

Dr. Friedberg, in his personal insights shared throughout the book, reveals the profound personal revelations that emerged during his recollections of memories to share with his patients. These insights would not have been possible without the therapeutic process, which operates in multiple directions as patients and therapists explore the present, the past, and the unknown. Readers are invited to see the therapist, like the patient, as a complex and vulnerable human being influenced by a myriad of factors, including parents, colleagues, and friends. The conscious and unconscious minds of the therapist intertwine, creating a rich and intricate web of connections.

One of the central tenants of psychotherapy is that it is not a passive endeavor. Rather, it requires the patient to actively engage in the process, even if there are reservations or misconceptions. The patient must be prepared to immerse themselves personally in the therapeutic relationship, allowing the therapist to guide them toward self-discovery. At the same time, the therapist actively assists the patient in gaining insight into their own thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Psychotherapy and Personal Change showcases the intricate development of this exchange and the profound impact it has on both the therapist and the patient. Through specific examples, the book raises readers' understanding of what to expect from psychotherapy, shedding light on the transformative power of the therapeutic relationship. It encourages readers to embrace the journey of self-exploration and personal growth, recognizing that the therapist is not just a guide but a partner in the process of healing and personal change.

In conclusion, Psychotherapy and Personal Change: Two Minds in a Mirror offers a captivating and insightful exploration of the profound connections between psychotherapy and personal change. Through candid and revealing accounts, this book provides readers with a deeper understanding of the therapeutic process and the transformative power of the therapeutic relationship. It encourages readers to embrace the journey of self-discovery and personal growth, recognizing that the therapist is not just a guide but a partner in the process of healing and personal change.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367622022