Journeys Through Life is a fictional work, but its characters and stories are based on real-life cases treated by the author. Journeys demystifies the therapeutic process and removes the stigma that often accompanies an individual's pursuit of emotional health through therapy. The book also illustrates that seemingly "simple" problems may be more deeply entrenched and complex than they may appear. Journeys is a must-read for any individual who believes they need to "go it alone" in leaving a rocky past behind and building a life of meaning, purpose and fulfillment.
JMT Publications Date Published: 2009 ISBN-13:9780970304575ISBN:0970304579
This review is from: Journeys Through Life: Tales of Change, How Individuals Have Changed Their Lives With Therapy (Paperback)
This is an excellent introduction to those who may be contemplating entering therapy. The author's Journeys are presented with true caring and empathy for his clients; he does not present a "magic-wand" approach to the therapeutic relationship: sometimes the client doesn't always live happily ever after.
I would encourage "Doc" to seriously consider a part two to this heartwarming and condensed version of his private practice experiences. His presentations are ethical, enlightening, and hopefully inspiration for those thinking about seeking professional help for their own bumpy journeys through life.
This review is from: Journeys Through Life: Tales of Change, How Individuals Have Changed Their Lives With Therapy (Paperback)
If you have ever considered therapy, then this is the book to read. "Doc" tells this story from his own viewpoint and de-mystifies the definition our society has given the word therapy. As the story unfolds we immediately understand, Doc who is an educated, experienced and licensed LCSW, DCSW, also has issues of his own. It took Doc until his early forties to have the courage to sort through his "baggage" and understand how his life has been affected and make a change. The remainder of the book embarks on a journey through the lives of three of Doc's patients. Walker, who has debilitating anger issues; John, who is a recovering alcoholic with intimacy issues, and Susan who is living in an abusive marriage. Different issues, but by utilizing journaling and other techniques, Doc is able to help those who truly want to help themselves. It would be better if you take this book as four separate short stories, rather than a novel. The transitions between the clients are non-existent and unexpected by ending abruptly. It is unclear the how much time has passed. Also, the conversations Doc has with his clients are very formal or stilted even. Nobody uses contractions and that makes it more textbook than novel like. I also believe the classification of "Young Adult" is wrong. This is an adult book. Overall, I would recommend this book. You never know what you might discover about yourself along life's journey.