This best-selling volume has been fully revised and updated to take
account of the latest thinking about the theory and practice of pastoral
counselling. As reviews of the original edition demonstrate, this is a
book that no Christian minister or lay counsellor can afford to be
without. 'Michael Jacobs has written a book which in terms of realistic
and sound understanding, of sensitivity to the real needs of people, of
a proper encouragement and humility, could not be improved upon. I can
think of no better book to recommend to those who are beginning to take
the counselling task seriously. They will be given an excellent
grounding, and will be spared many obvious and less obvious pitfalls'
Theology. 'It is lucid, persuasive and practical, firmly insisting that
all those who dare to help others must start by seeking to understand -
and love - themselves. The illustrative dialogue and events scattered
across the pages offer fresh insights into what must be familiar ground
for many readers feeling alone in the pastoral work they do. The
chapters on beliefs and values and on endings are particularly valuable'
Epworth Review.