A Guide for Effective Psychotherapy
John R. Morella, Ph.D.
Reviewed by Barb Radmore
John Morella has written a very clear, user friendly guide for anyone
who is considering any form of therapy for the first time. He is able
to explain the process from the beginning to the end in terms that even
the most nervous or unknowledgeable person can understand and follow.
The first aspect of this book that draws the reader's attention is the
Table of Contents. Instead of just a short listing of chapter titles he
also lists all subtitles in bold print and a brief explanation of the
purpose and content of each chapter. It states the goal of each section
up front. If there is specific information needed it is easy to know
where to look and it seems to replace an index.
The chapters begin with an over view of all the various options for
mental health providers and types of psychotherapy. The number and
variety of choices can be overwhelming to the novice and if in crisis
it is especially daunting. Choosing the correct therapist is one
of the most crucial selections that must be made. Morella reviews all
the types of therapists, qualifications and the various therapy models.
He does an excellent job of explaining the various models in terms lay
people can understand. It is not easy to explain each one without being
trapped by jargon or medical vernacular. His relaxed, simple style is
not demeaning but appropriately unpretentious.
Later chapters cover everything from client's rights to children's
services and medication. The end is a listing of resources with
addresses including web sites and a short description of services. A
few scenarios finish the book to prepare future clients as to what to
expect from a session.
The format of the book is well laid out. Wider than usual margins on
all sides help prevent the sensation of information becoming too
formidable for the reader. A combination of paragraphs, bulleted lists
and, of course, the occasional joke all form a well thought out,
concise look at the therapy process. A Guide for Effective
Psychotherapy should be readily available to anyone who is considering
therapy for themselves, friend or family member. Libraries, medical
offices and crisis services should have a copy of this tome to
recommend to those in need.