Oxford Textbook of Psychotherapy. Edited by Gabbard, Glen O. , Beck, Judith S. & Holmes, Jeremy . Oxford University Press. 2005. 545 pp. £65.00 (hb). ISBN 0198520646

Oxford Textbook of Psychotherapy. Edited by Gabbard Glen O., Beck Judith S. & Holmes Jeremy. Oxford University Press. 2005. 545 pp. £65.00 (hb). ISBN 0198520646

Disenchanted with the temporary cure affected by ‘mesmerism’, Freud turned his focus to the patient once more. The patient was asked to relax on the couch, close his eyes, and (as Freud placed his palm on the patient's forehead) tell his story. The patient began to talk unrestrictedly; and Freud listened. Later he discovered that he needn't even touch the patient. All Freud had to do was to listen.

Psychotherapy has evolved since Freud's time and a multitude of psychotherapy schools abound. The editors of the Oxford...