7th Edition
Adlerian Counseling and Psychotherapy The Practitioner’s Relationship Approach
Part I: Foundations For Understanding Human Nature 1. Alfred Adler: The Man, The Movement, And His Individual Psychology 2. Life’s Rules Are For Everyone: Natural And Logical Consequences 3. Encouragement: The Essential Element Of Helping Relationships Part II: Adlerian Psychotherapy: First Order vs Second Order Change 4. Uncovering The Unconscious: Lifestyle Assessment 5. The Practice Of Adlerian Counseling And Psychotherapy Abstract 6. Adlerian Patter-Focused Therapy And Adaptive Reorientation Therapy 7. Using Diagnostic And Statistical Manual Of Mental Disorders (DSM) Diagnosis For Adlerian Outcomes Part III: Adlerian Counseling In Daily Practice 8. Career Style Counseling 9. Guiding Children Toward Cooperation Through Relationships 10. Family Relationship Counseling And Consultation 11. Relationship Counseling With Couples 12. Relationship Counseling Groups 13. Empirical Foundations Of Adlerian Theory: Evidence, Insights, And Future 14. What It Means To Be Adlerian Appendix A: Family Counseling Appendix B: Lifestyle Assessment Interview Script
Biography
Thomas J. Sweeney, PhD, is professor emeritus at Ohio University and executive director emeritus of Chi Sigma Iota, shaping counselor licensure, accreditation, and Adlerian and wellness counseling practice.
Todd F. Lewis, PhD, is professor of counselor education at North Dakota State University and a licensed professional counselor publishing on Adlerian counseling, addiction, collegiate drinking, and emerging adulthood.
“This book is an invaluable resource for practitioners, educators, and parents seeking practical and insightful methods grounded in the individual psychology of Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs. Its clear, concise overviews of theory and practice are enriched by real-world applications and updated research, making complex ideas accessible to readers at all levels. The focus on encouragement, relationship building, and social interest offers a refreshing perspective on fostering personal growth and healthier communities.”
Victoria Kress, distinguished professor, Youngstown State University
“Adlerian Counseling and Psychotherapy, 7th ed, blends timeless wisdom and practical guidance for today’s practitioners. With clarity and care, Sweeney and Lewis ground their work in the enduring relational and philosophical foundations of Adler and Dreikurs, reminding us that meaningful change begins with connection, encouragement, and social interest. At the same time, they advance the Adlerian tradition with tools that are practical, culturally and developmentally responsive, strengths oriented, and attuned to the complexities professional helpers navigate daily. In a time marked by disconnection and demand, this text reinforces what we too easily forget: the heart of helping lies in relationships, and the path toward meaningful change is built on courage, cooperation, and purpose.”
Casey A. Barrio Minton, PhD, NCC, professor and department head, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
“This is the most comprehensive available text on Alfred Adler and Adlerian counseling. This new edition beautifully illustrates the myriad ways counselors can use Adler’s theory within contemporary clinical and school settings, across career, consultation, family, group, and couples counseling contexts. Of note is a new chapter on empirical support, offering a unique synthesis of the extant research undergirding the prevalence of Adlerian theory in practice, followed by a penultimate chapter detailing the development of Adlerian practitioners. This book belongs on every counselor’s, counselor educator’s, and supervisor’s bookshelf. I look forward to adding it to my own.”
Melissa Luke, PhD, dean’s professor of counseling and human services, Syracuse University
“This is the definitive guide to Adlerian practice. In today’s world, social interest, encouragement, and wellness are more important than ever, and this is the foundation on which the book is built. Whether your counseling practice focuses on children, adults, couples, families, groups, or careers, this book will provide you with tools and insights for effective practice. Two additional experts in specific areas of the Adlerian approach have shared their expertise in some of the chapters. I am delighted that we will continue to have access to this valuable, updated Adlerian resource.”
Christine Suniti Bhat, PhD, LSC, LPC, professor of counseling and higher education, Ohio University
