The Socratic Method in Psychotherapy.

The Socratic Method: A Path to Overcoming Problems by Changing Your Attitude Toward Them! “Essential Reading for Every Mental Health Professional!” — AARON T. BECK This book is designed to help mental health professionals approach therapy sessions from a broader, more philosophical perspective, viewing each client’s problems in terms of personal growth and development, and to outline a series of ideas and strategies that guide the psychotherapist’s work toward these essential changes. James Overholzer applies ideas first articulated by ancient philosophy to the realities faced by modern psychotherapy. The Socratic method of psychotherapy involves five processes and two main themes. In this approach, acute stress relief and the resolution of specific problems receive minimal attention. Overall, the Socratic method is not aimed at solving the patient’s immediate problems, but at helping them change their perspective on those problems and understand that the ultimate goal is to change their lifestyle through self-improvement, while problems are merely minor inconveniences distracting them from this main task. THE BOOK’S MAIN THEMES: Psychotherapy as therapy of the mind Self-improvement, spiritual growth, and development Virtue ethics as the focus of psychotherapy Psychotherapy from Socrates’ perspective “The Socratic method of dialogue and questioning as the strategic foundation of interventions in cognitive-behavioral therapy is often ignored or poorly understood from a philosophical and historical perspective. Overholzer masterfully and clearly demonstrates the value of the Socratic method in improving the therapeutic relationship. Every mental health professional should read this book.” — Aaron T. Beck, University of Pennsylvania