Learning to Counsel: Develop the Skills You Need to Counsel Others (How to): Develop the Skills You Need to Counsel Others (How to)

"This concise, accessible, practical, easy to read, and inexpensive text, is an excellent introduction to counselling. The authors’ warm and friendly approach together with their use of thought-provoking case studies, illustrations, examples of skills in action, and stimulating activities make learning an interesting and rewarding experience. Besides teaching basic counselling skills such as good listening and responding supportively, the authors identify the essential qualities required to become an empathic and effective counsellor. The book concludes with a helpful glossary of terms, a list of useful organisations and internet resources, and a comprehensive further reading section.

In my opinion, this extremely good value for money book is essential reading for counselling students, or those considering pursuing a career in counselling. Moreover, it merits a well deserved place on the recommended reading list of every introductory counselling course.

Ella, trainee counsellor"
~ Written on 2005-12-11

"I bought this book when I was looking for help in caring for a family member who refused to seek professional counselling (having had counselling myself I knew the benefits to be gained). I thought that perhaps, if I could get a few pointers from this book, I might be able to help them myself.

It proved to be a very easy to read, easy to understand book which gives practical help and information on what counselling involves at all levels, whether at a professional level or that of a friendship based helper-helpee relationship. It includes case histories throughout with good examples of counselling practice serving to illustrate the points made and the techniques described. There are thought provoking exercises that make you search yourself for honest answers, leading to a deeper understanding of ones own behaviour and emotions, thereby facilitating empathy with others.

It was such a good book, I was encouraged to enrol in an initial counselling skills course shortly after reading it."
~ Written on 2003-07-17