Paradox and Passion in Psychotherapy: An Existential Approach to Therapy and Counselling (Wiley Series in Existential Perspectives in Psychotherapy & Counselling) (Hardcover)

Van Deurzen attempts to outline an existential approach to psychotherapy and counselling that embraces paradoxes inherent in being human that not only 'cause' problems in living but that also hold some of the answers to living a better life. When we accept and even welcome them as part of our human condition, we can see such dilemmas as unavoidable and hence a challenge. This is where passion is needed to commit oneself to the 'truth' of this situation. To commit oneself to this it seems we need an overall commitment to truth in our lives.

Throughout the book she illustrates her theory by relating personal events in her life which have acted as catalysts for the development of her philosophy on life. These events range from childhood experiences to her early professional careers in mental institutions and 'progressive' therapeutic communities. There is also an open and interesting account of some of the mistakes she has made as a therapist, which have been valuable learning experiences.

This book will be controversial for some readers as it dares to talk not only of the importance for therapy of questions as to what it may mean to 'live well', but also about some of the answers that may stem from a passionate belief in the search for 'truth'. But these should not be controversial, as the bottom line of therapy is a search for a better way of living life for the therapist as well as the client.

Emmy van Deurzen is passionate about her beliefs, her truths. However, they are not "rules or prescriptive formulae" (p.139) to follow. Consequently, in keeping with the spirit of Passion and Paradox , I would like to suggest the following; this book itself becomes a paradox regarding the nature of 'truth' and the difficulties associated with communicating a truth which is both 'objective', as it refers to the human condition, and 'subjective', because the truth, by its nature, has to be chosen and lived by each individual.

Van Deurzen's existential philosophy, and she is clear to point out that "the existential approach has to be created anew by each practitioner" (p.139), is difficult because it not only acknowledges paradox but tackles it head on. Her arguments allow for the paradox of the therapist believing in an authentic approach to being human without dictating to the client what that actually entails. This is a profoundly unsettling paradox for therapists but one that will not go away through a desire to remain safe and secure, within orientations or organisations.

This is an ethical book, a work of moral philosophy, a meditation on living well that keeps in view most of the paradoxes and difficulties we all face. It offers a refreshing antidote to the majority of books on psychotherapy, including a number of other recent attempts to outline an existential approach. As a therapist who has a some what 'love-hate' relationship to therapy I cannot recommend this book highly enough, both for practitioners, and for those who simply care about the dilemma of overcoming our human problems along with a desire to live a 'good life'.