Gestalt Therapy for Addictive and Self-Medicating Behaviors

I recently reviewed over 50 various books, articles and other publications for a literature review as part of a psychotherapy Masters program on Addiction. Of all of the publications, one in particular, Gestalt Therapy for Addictive and Self-Medicating Behaviors by Philip Brownell, grabbed my attention. I have found myself returning to it time and again as a reference and a refreshing view on the paradox of recovery, the differences between sobriety and recovery and various approaches to treatment. It is easy to read, embraces the contemporary model of gestalt therapy, and offers practical treatment advice. This book is not just for gestalt practitioners, but is relevant and valuable to anyone in the addiction recovery industry. I highly recommend it. Get it!

Brownell is an incredibly engaging author pulling the reader in through his personal accounts and dynamic vignettes! As a therapist working in the field of addiction, this book provides a breath of fresh air. Using the client driven approach with my patients has allowed new dialogues to emerge and thus a deeper understanding of the therapeutic relationship and the self.

I'm a student of Gestalt, and bought this book to both support me in dealing with my self-medicating behaviours and to write an essay. I found it compelling. Brownwell writes in an accessible way, with great clarity of message. He is clearly knowledgable in the fields of Gestalt, addiction, and wider psychotherapeutic approaches. I find the way he builds his argument with academic references, and gentle critiques very helpful.I've given it 4 stars, because of the price, it is the most expensive book I have ever bought! And it also one of the books that really speaks to me. This book has helped me to make meaning of both my behaviours and the many other theorists in the field. I also note that I rarely give reviews. This book is special.