This book is a comprehensive look at the theory, practice, and outcomes of telephone crisis intevention. David Lester has organized all of the major studies of telephone crisis intervention and presents them in a framework that includes a historical as well as current perspective. As part of my Master's thesis, (Counseling Psychology), I have read the originals of many of the studies Lester has included. I appreciate the way Lester makes sense of what might otherwise be rather dense reading. As a telephone crisis counselor for many years, I also appreciate the accuracy with which Lester describes and explains listening skills and different approaches to calls and callers.
This book is appropriate for the interested volunteer as well as the career professional. Other plusses: The book is largely devoid of jargon and many chapters can be read on a stand-alone basis.
Highly recommend.