Psychotherapy: is it science or is it art? This is a vexing question, and I am sure there is no definitive answer. Psychotherapy is not just something that the therapist does. Psychotherapy is a process between therapist and clients. It is something that involves a relationship between them. It requires trust, honesty, hope, resilience, belief, commitment, and preparation to work together. The process often starts with the therapist being seen by the clients to have knowledge and skills, whereas the clients often start from a position of helplessness, impotence, and failure. However, as time passes, the input from the clients becomes more and more important. The clients' strengths and competence need to be acknowledged, encouraged, and integrated in the process of therapy.
This book provides examples of the fascinating and exciting work I have been honoured to share with a range of clients: individuals, couples, and families. I want to offer this work to help take the mystique out of the process of psychotherapy.