For individuals, evil may exist in the form of enacted imagery, as with sexual sadists; of the misuse of trance, as seen in the negative voices that remind, direct, and afflict us; and of the betrayal of relationship and trust. This book is organized around cases dealing with the resolution of the consequences of evil.
–From the Introduction Directed toward therapists of all persuasions who deal with the most difficult issues in therapy, The Problem of Evil provides a practice-expanding vision of healing. When common notions of compassion and empathy fail in the face of dilemmas that seemingly defy solution, the use of trance and story brings therapy to the next level. Greenleaf’s synthesis of the narrative, trance, and relationship perspectives –and the integration of his own innovative practice of “passing the trance” –make this book a uniquely compelling addition to the literature. Most of the disturbances alluded to in The Problem of Evil are the consequence of pain, humiliation, and confusion suffered at the hands of more powerful persons. Greenleaf skillfully demonstrates how the means once used to hold clients captive in perilous patterns of victimization can become the means to free these same clients. Images can help diffuse nightmares; trance can move individuals toward advocating for themselves; and the therapeutic relationship can become a source of new information and positive influence. Within these pages are intensely moving stories, both harrowing and hopeful in the telling. Within these pages readers will discover creative and effective ways to open doors to healing that were once impenetrable. | 
