Why Some Therapies Don't Work

Joined by his colleague Raymond J. Yeager, renowned therapist Albert Ellis explains the revolutionary technique of rational-emotive therapy (RET) and contrasts it with transpersonal psychology and psychotherapy in a devastating analysis of cult therapy. Contrasting the theories, methods, and results of transpersonal psychotherapy with the more sensible and effective RET approach, Ellis and Yeager explain the goals of psychotherapy in terms of human well-being, showing how transpersonal psychology can actually increase a person's frustration, intensify neurotic defenses, and impede the development of a healthy self-image. A tremendous amount of research supports the effectiveness of RET and its related forms of treatment. The cognitive-therapy revolution, with its realistic approach to life problems, is gaining momentum both inside clinical practice and among the general population. In Why Some Therapies Don't Work, Ellis and Yeager emphasize the inherent dangers of the transpersonal phenomenon, in whatever form it might take. By comparing and contrasting RET and transpersonalism, they provide professionals with a valuable resource while offering general readers a functional and clearly written self-help guide.