Summary
Contents
Subject index
`I recommend this book to anyone who lives or works with families, children or teenagers' - Nurturing Potential `This is a valuable book, worth attention in every child and family service. My own agency has ordered a copy!' - Robert Cumming, Nurturing Potential `John Sharry's book is a jewel in the solution-focused literature. It is clearly and engagingly written, draws on a host of ideas from different therapeutic approaches and is packed with practical examples. There is no better book on strengths-based therapy with children and adolescents. Every team should have one' - Chris Iveson, Brief Therapy Practice Counselling Children, Adolescents and Families describes an innovative approach to therapeutic work which builds on the strengths of children and their parents. As the author's experience shows, helping clients to focus on potential solutions rather than problems can be a powerful means of engaging them in the therapeutic process, even in the most conflicting family circumstances. Harnessing the client's personal, family and community resources in this way also helps counteract their feelings of powerlessness and the possibility of increasing reliance on professional services. Part One outlines the basic principles of a solution-focused and strengths-based approach, tackling such thorny issues as how and when to use diagnosis. Part two describes creative applications of the approach, using groupwork, play-based activities and video feedback. Part Three, examines practical issues which arise in more 'difficult' cases, such as child abuse and suicidal teenagers and children. This book is aimed at professionals and trainees in fields including social work, mental health, childcare, education, psychotherapy and counselling.
Establishing the Context
Establishing the Context
On Childhood
For children, childhood is timeless. It's always the present. Today is what they feel and when they say ‘When I will grow up…’ there is always an edge of disbelief – how could they be other than what they are?
There is always one moment in childhood when the door opens and lets in the future.
On Parenthood
Becoming a parent brought me the greatest joy in my life, but also the greatest heartache.
My life completely changed when I became a parent. It was so hard because I wanted my old life back. It only became wonderful when I let go and went with the flow.
Working as a professional with families requires the ability to listen to and take ...
- Loading...