Basic Counseling Techniques

Book excerpt: Wayne Perry has been a therapist for more than thirty years, but he still hears the same thing from beginning counselors and therapists: Yes, I know what the theory says, but what do I do with this particular client? Drawing on his decades of experience training marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and pastoral counselors, he answers that question in the updated edition of his landmark book: Basic Counseling Techniques. He provides practical suggestions for setting up the therapy room, using audiovisual recording equipment, and conducting those first critical interviews. You'll learn how to: apply nine different sets of clinical tools; select the appropriate tool for the appropriate clinical situation; and improve how you carry out the clinical thinking process. Each chapter concludes with a "Living into the Lesson" section that allows you to participate in experiential exercises to master what you've learned. While designed for counselors and therapists in the beginning of their careers, even veterans in the field will find value in this updated edition.