Books about counselling often suffer from two problems: they can be highly theoret-ical and can fail to address the needs of the healthcare professional. This book avoids those pitfalls. Alongside a review of various theoretical models, the authors draw on their experiences of real situations and people - professionals as well as patients - in the healthcare environment. Bob Spall is a consultant clinical psychologist and the Rev Stephen Callis is a hospital chaplain and GP practice counsellor. They bring over 40 years' experience to this book, which is designed to help nurses, midwives, doctors, paramedics and social workers answer the question:What is required to be an effective helping professional?

Each of the 16 chapters ends with a summary of the main points and includes questions with which the reader can explore issues in more depth. Topics covered include dealing with change; being 'professional'; personal loss and its impact on work; understanding the death and bereavement process and dealing with it; techniques for breaking bad news; religious, spiritual and cultural needs; recognising when further help is required, and when to seek personal support. A comprehensive list of references for further reading is also included.

The book is designed to be read as an integrated unit but readers will undoubtedly also want to dip into particular aspects for help with specific questions. One of the great strengths of this book is that, with its compelling easy-to-read style, it will help healthcare professionals understand themselves. This leads to more effective and appropriate understanding of the needs of patients.

Reviewed by
Mike Wilman
(Lecturer and Consulting Analyst in private practice, Hampshire)