Joseph Wolpe

Joseph Wolpe brought about a revolution in psychotherapy. He provided the first clear alternative to therapy as an esoteric exploration of mental forces and, instead, presented clearly specified procedures and documented outcomes - a practical technology based on a fundamental science of learning. Roger Poppen, who personally witnessed part of this revolution as a doctoral student in the 1960s, describes the major impact that Wolpe's methods and theories had on psychotherapy, compelling it to address issues of effectiveness and accountability. He assesses the criticisms that Wolpe's work has attracted both from outside and within the behavioural school, and describes the development of Wolpe's ideas and his continuing role in the theory, practice and evaluation of psychotherapy. Providing a broad overview of Joseph Wolpe's life and his place both in psychotherapy in general and behaviour therapy in particular, this clear and eminently readable book will be invaluable for all counsellors and psychotherapists.