In their professional lives, therapists are frequently exposed to a vast range of human despair, conflict, and suffering that can take an emotional toll on their personal lives. Drawing on case histories from Freud, Rogers, and Perls, as well as extensive interviews with practitioners, Jeffrey A. Kottler provides a candid account of the profound ways in which therapists are influenced by their interactions with clients.

This thoroughly revised and updated edition shows how therapists can use the insights gained from their work with clients to recognize problems within themselves, promote their own personal growth and become better therapists.