Self-Disclosure in Psychotherapy

Concise, clear, and featuring numerous clinical examples, this is the first book to include empirical studies of supervisor/supervisee disclosure, plus extensive research on patient/therapist disclosure. Other unique topics include disclosure issues in child therapy.

Drawing on empirical research as well as theory and clinical experience, Barry A. Farber provides a highly readable examination of self-disclosure by both therapists and patients. He explores when sharing personal experiences is beneficial and what kinds of disclosure may not be helpful; why either party may fail to reveal important information; and how to use what is disclosed (and what is omitted) to strengthen the therapeutic relationship and improve patient outcomes. He also discusses the reasons why disclosure in therapy is currently such a prominent issue. Rich with clinical material, the book offers valuable insights for therapists of any orientation. A special chapter addresses self-disclosure issues in supervision.

1. The Nature of Self-Disclosure2. Clinical Perspectives on Patient Disclosure3. Research Perspectives on Patient Disclosure4. Patient Disclosure: The Outcome Controversy5. Multicultural Perspectives on Patient Disclosure6. Historical Perspectives on Therapist Disclosure7. Research Perspectives on Therapist Disclosure8. Clinical Perspectives on Therapist Disclosure9. Supervisee and Supervisor Disclosure10. Conclusions

Barry A. Farber, PhD, received his degree in clinical psychology from Yale University. Currently, he is a Professor of Psychology and Education at Teachers College, Columbia University. He has twice served as chair of the Counseling and Clinical Psychology Department at Teachers College, and has been the program coordinator and director of training in the Clinical Psychology Program since 1990. Dr. Farber serves on the editorial boards of several professional journals, and maintains a small private practice of psychotherapy in Mamaroneck, New York. His three previous books include the coedited volume The Psychotherapy of Carl Rogers: Cases and Commentary. Dr. Farber has written articles on stress and burnout, psychological-mindedness, therapist and patient representations, career motivations of therapists, and the therapist as an attachment figure. He is currently working on a book about psychologically astute rock and roll lyrics.