"This long-awaited volume richly fulfills its promise. Few writers on the psychotherapy scene have as interesting, or as important, things to say. This beautifully written book is fresh, insightful, and wise." - Paul L. Wachtel, Ph.D., The City College, City University of New York "David Shapiro's new book applies his insights into the neurotic process to psychodynamic psychotherapy. He again demonstrates that he is one of the most original and creative thinkers in the field. He is particularly skillful at illustrating theoretical concepts through the analysis of clinical vignettes, with results that will be relevant to the practicing psychotherapist who wants to know what difference theory makes. The careful study of Psychotherapy of Neurotic Character will prove richly rewarding to any dynamic therapist." - Robert Michels, M.D., Cornell University Medical College, and The New York Hospital "I'm charmed by this book as I was by David Shapiro's two previous contributions. I have taught from them for nearly a decade. In Psychotherapy of Neurotic Character we can now see the author at work as a therapist providing a fresh model for teachers and students of psychotherapy." - Ann H. Appelbaum, M.D., Cornell University Medical College "David Shapiro has addressed the treatment of the condition he so well describes in Neurotic Styles. That classic now has a worthy companion. All serious therapists will profit from a close reading of this book." - Herbert J. Schlesinger, Ph.D., New School for Social Research Description With the publication of this masterly new book, David Shapiro fulfills the promise made more than twenty years ago. Psychotherapy of Neurotic Character presents for the first time an approach to psychotherapy consistent with his classic work, Neurotic Styles. Shapiro's keenness of observation and profound clinical wisdom are once again in evidence, as he brings to bear his brilliant ideas about neurotic character on the actual conduct of psychotherapy. The therapeutic material, argues Shapiro, consists not merely of what the patient provides but of the patient. Pay attention not only to the words, Shapiro says, but also to the speaker.Shapiro's highly original view of the dynamics of neurosis emphasizes subjective experience and revises classical conflict theory. The therapist's goal is to introduce the patient to himself and thus to end the self-estrangement that characterizes neurosis. In a series of eloquent chapters, richly illustrated with clinical vignettes, he elaborates this view, exploring such topics as the process of change, the psychology of "raising consciousness," and the therapeutic relationship. No therapist, regardless of persuasion, will fail to be enlightened and inspired by this essential contribution to the field. from the publisher's website |