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Foundations of Counseling and Psychotherapy: Evidence-Based Practices in a Diverse Society, by David Sue and Diane M. Sue. Mississauga, Ontario: Wiley & Sons Canada, 2007, 456 pages (ISBN: 978-0-471-43302-6, c$101.99, Hardcover)
Reviewed by SUZANNE L· STEWART
DOI: 10.1037/a0016640
Foundations of Counseling and Psychotherapy delivers a broad overview of major theories of mental health practise that is provocative and up to date. Cutting-edge research and a passionate plea for multicultural considerations make this is a unique resource for students, educators, and mental health workers. In addition, the text is clear, well written, and understandable to both novice and advanced students or practitioners. It uses a language that is both reasonable and persuasive.
Commencing with a fervent rationale for evidence-based practise and empirically supported theories, the authors show the detailed progression of the discipline of psychotherapy within the context of multiculturalism and diversity. The reader is led on a journey that emphasises employing a scientist-practitioner model "with a solid sense of how the various therapeutic approaches differ - and how each can be applied in clinical practice" (p. 2).
The tone of the book reflects a learned appreciation for the unique and important strengths of individuals and specific diverse ethnic/cultural groups within the context of counselling and psychotherapy. The authors assert this commitment in the following statement: "Dealing with diversity issues in therapy involves consideration of issues from multiple perspectives. First, diversity issues need to be considered for all clients" (p. 15). A central theme of the book is the desire to mobilise practitioners and students for the changing standards in the mental health profession. In keeping with this aim, the authors demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based practise, which considers the importance of research, client contexts (such as cultural factors), client characteristics, and therapist skill and knowledge in the practise of psychotherapy.
The authors, husband and wife team David and Diane M. Sue, are proven psychologists and authors specialising in science and cultural diversity with an emphasis on the therapist- client relationship. Diane M. Sue is a school psychologist who has practised for more than 28 years and has also published research on Chinese American women's needs in counselling. David Sue is a professor of psychology at Western Washington University, and is also an associate of the...