The Psychotherapy of Carl Rogers: Cases and Commentary - Paperback

by Barry A. Farber (Editor), Debora C. Brink (Editor), Patricia M. Raskin (Editor)

This book presents ten cases conducted by Carl Rogers, eight of which are fully transcribed. Featuring critical commentaries by notable psychotherapists, the book affords readers the opportunity to read unedited case material by this pioneering -- though often overlooked -- client-centered therapist, and to compare the responses of therapists from diverse orientations. The cases included represent Rogers' work over a 40-year period with clients with a range of presenting problems. Contributing authors, who include practitioners of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, existential, and spiritual models of psychotherapy, as well as client-centered approaches, comment on the strengths and weaknesses of Rogers' approach to each case and evaluate his theoretical assumptions. In all, the volume both honors Rogers' memory and demystifies his contributions to the field.

Back Jacket

The Psychotherapy of Carl Rogers gives readers a unique inside view of Rogers' therapy sessions. Presenting actual cases without edits or revision, this book follows sessions from start to finish with Rogers' exact words, illuminating his reflections, interpretations, self-disclosures, and errors. The selected cases span the period from 1946 to 1986 and represent a range of clients - from those suffering from depression, to those dealing with issues of racism, to an individual who was diagnosed as psychotic. The cases illustrate both the consistency with which Rogers attempted to be a keen and respectful listener and the increasing diversity in his response repertoire over the years. After each case is presented, a client-centered therapist elaborates on the session's strengths, weaknesses, theoretical assumptions, inconsistencies, and notable features. In addition, for the experiential cases in the second section, a practitioner from another orientation - psycho analytic, cognitive-behavioral, spiritual - provides critical commentary. By discussing the similarities and differences between their approaches and the client-centered approach, they offer insight into the advantages and shortcomings of Rogers' model. Furthermore, the contributors represent a diversity of tone and content that reflect the wide-ranging influence of Rogers' model and the many creative ways it can be understood and applied. An important volume for psychotherapists, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, counselors, and psychiatric nurses, this book also serves as a text for courses in counseling, psychotherapy, psychology, and client-centered therapy.

Author Biography

Barry A. Farber, Ph.D., is a Professor and Director of Clinical Training in the Department of Clinical Psychology at Teachers College, Columbia University. His scholarly interests have focused on the process and outcome of psychotherapy, on the nature and implications of psychological-mindedness, and on burnout in teachers and therapists. He maintains a part-time private practice in psychotherapy.

Debora C. Brink, Ph.D., taught Developmental Psychology at the City College of New York for more than 20 years. After retiring in 1986, she moved to New Orleans, Louisiana.

Patricia M. Raskin, Ph.D., is Associate Professor in Counseling Psychology at Teachers College, Columbia University. Her research interests include career development in adult women, identity, and intimacy.