Many people grapple with destructive thought processes or a "critical
inner voice" that directs their behavior and, to varying degrees, limits
their lives. Using deeply personal and very human stories based on his
own clinical practice, noted psychologist Robert W. Firestone
illustrates the struggles of his clients to give words to this "enemy
within," and in the process overcome its damaging influence. These
revealing and captivating stories offer glimpses into the uniquely human
relationship that develops in the therapeutic encounter and demonstrate
the powerful impact that the experience has on both client and
therapist.
Dr. Firestone is the originator of a therapeutic method called "Voice
Therapy," by which clients learn to identify the language of the defense
system and eventually separate their own point of view from its harmful
effects. Each story provides an intimate look into one person's life,
illuminates aspects of his or her "dark side," and highlights an
important insight into the therapeutic process.
This sensitively written book will evoke emotional responses in readers,
and inspire them to take action to challenge the dictates of their own
inner critic. Taken together, these stories underscore the distinctive
merits and continuing relevance of the therapeutic process, especially
in our distracted, technological world increasingly detached from
feeling.
