- Table View
- List View
Transactional Analysis Approaches to Brief Therapy: What do you say between saying hello and goodbye?
by Mr Keith Tudor`This book, edited by Keith Tudor (who is also one of the ten contributors) is excellent reading for a number of reasons: for those who know nothing about TA, it is a highly informative and readily accessible introduction. For those who read or studied it some time ago, it is an excellent refresher. I am impressed by the diversity of people and applications of TA, and the developments outlined in this book are, certainly for me, cause for hope because, as well as offering frameworks for making 'simple' sense of humans in action – and human inaction – TA is a complex and profound system that offers people a way of solving the problems of the present, re-evaluating the struggles of the past, and reshaping the future with permission and power based on a greater sense of self' - Nurturing Potential `I wholeheartedly recommend this book to all therapists as enriching and interesting reading' - European Association for Transactional Analysis Newsletter `It is a book which would offer helpful introductions to both the practice of transactional analysis, and the attitude needed when planning brief therapy of any kind' - The Jounal of Analytical Psychology Of all the approaches to therapy, transactional analysis is arguably one of those most suited to time-limited work. At a time when short-term therapy is increasingly dominant as a form of practice, Transactional Analysis Approaches to Brief Therapy provides an insightful guide which both informs and challenges. Rather than a single theory, TA has developed as a group of four schools which share a common philosophy, but place different emphasis on what occurs during the therapeutic process. Written by therapists at the leading edge of developments in TA, the book presents and differentiates each of these four approaches. Through transcripts and commentaries, it shows how theory applies to practice, for example in treating post-traumatic stress or in achieving a one-session cure. The book also includes a useful glossary of TA terms, as well as an appendix of Eric Berne's short script-questionnaire. In some ways critical of the zeitgeist of short-termism and the commercial pressures for therapy to be brief, the book seeks a balance between the challenge TA offers as an actionistic approach to quick and efficient therapy and the importance of relationship in therapy which is time-conscious. It will be enlightening reading for all those training and those already trained as therapists and counsellors in TA.
Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspective (PDF)
by Helena Hargaden Charlotte SillsTransactional analysis is growing in popularity as an approach to psychotherapy, and this book provides an in-depth, comprehensive model of theory and practice. Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspectivepresents a relational model of psychotherapy which reflects the theoretical and methodological changes that have been evolving over recent years. In this book, Helena Hargaden and Charlotte Sills tell the story of their model through case history, theory and diagram illustrating how the unconscious process comes to life in the consulting room. Their relational theory and applied methodology of transactional analysis makes it possible to chart realms of uncertainty and the unknown, (deconfusion of the Child ego state), with theoretical assistance. Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspectivecovers: * the approach * the dynamics of the relationship * therapeutic transactions * wider implications. It looks at the whole therapeutic relationship, from the establishment of the working alliance, to the terminating of therapy and beyond. It will be of great interest to postgraduates and professionals in the field of psychotherapy. 9781583911204
Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspective
by Helena Hargaden Charlotte SillsTransactional analysis is growing in popularity as an approach to psychotherapy, and this book provides an in-depth, comprehensive model of theory and practice. Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspectivepresents a relational model of psychotherapy which reflects the theoretical and methodological changes that have been evolving over recent years. In this book, Helena Hargaden and Charlotte Sills tell the story of their model through case history, theory and diagram illustrating how the unconscious process comes to life in the consulting room. Their relational theory and applied methodology of transactional analysis makes it possible to chart realms of uncertainty and the unknown, (deconfusion of the Child ego state), with theoretical assistance. Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspectivecovers: * the approach * the dynamics of the relationship * therapeutic transactions * wider implications. It looks at the whole therapeutic relationship, from the establishment of the working alliance, to the terminating of therapy and beyond. It will be of great interest to postgraduates and professionals in the field of psychotherapy. 9781583911204
Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspective (Advancing Theory in Therapy)
by Helena Hargaden Charlotte SillsTransactional analysis is growing in popularity as an approach to psychotherapy, and this book provides an in-depth, comprehensive model of theory and practice.Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspective presents a relational model of psychotherapy which reflects the theoretical and methodological changes that have been evolving over recent years. In this book, Helena Hargaden and Charlotte Sills tell the story of their model through case history, theory and diagram illustrating how the unconscious process comes to life in the consulting room. Their relational theory and applied methodology of transactional analysis makes it possible to chart realms of uncertainty and the unknown, (deconfusion of the Child ego state), with theoretical assistance. Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspective covers:* the approach* the dynamics of the relationship* therapeutic transactions* wider implications.It looks at the whole therapeutic relationship, from the establishment of the working alliance, to the terminating of therapy and beyond. It will be of great interest to postgraduates and professionals in the field of psychotherapy.
Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspective (Advancing Theory in Therapy)
by Helena Hargaden Charlotte SillsTransactional analysis is growing in popularity as an approach to psychotherapy, and this book provides an in-depth, comprehensive model of theory and practice.Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspective presents a relational model of psychotherapy which reflects the theoretical and methodological changes that have been evolving over recent years. In this book, Helena Hargaden and Charlotte Sills tell the story of their model through case history, theory and diagram illustrating how the unconscious process comes to life in the consulting room. Their relational theory and applied methodology of transactional analysis makes it possible to chart realms of uncertainty and the unknown, (deconfusion of the Child ego state), with theoretical assistance. Transactional Analysis: A Relational Perspective covers:* the approach* the dynamics of the relationship* therapeutic transactions* wider implications.It looks at the whole therapeutic relationship, from the establishment of the working alliance, to the terminating of therapy and beyond. It will be of great interest to postgraduates and professionals in the field of psychotherapy.
Transactional Analysis: 100 Key Points and Techniques (PDF)
by Mark WiddowsonTransactional Analysis (TA) is a versatile and comprehensive system of psychotherapy. Transactional Analysis: 100 Key Points and Techniques synthesises developments in the field, making complex material accessible and offering practical guidance on how to apply the theory and refine TA psychotherapy skills in practice. Divided into seven manageable sections, the 100 key points cover: the philosophy, theory, methods and critique of the main approaches to TA TA perspectives on the therapeutic relationship diagnosis, contracting and treatment planning using TA a trouble shooting guide to avoiding common pitfalls refining therapeutic skills As such this book is essential reading for trainee TA therapists, those preparing for examinations as well as experienced practitioners who will find much practical guidance on the skilful and mindful application of this cohesive system of psychotherapy.
Transactional Analysis: 100 Key Points and Techniques
by Mark WiddowsonTransactional Analysis (TA) is a versatile and comprehensive system of psychotherapy. Transactional Analysis: 100 Key Points and Techniques synthesises developments in the field, making complex material accessible and offering practical guidance on how to apply the theory and refine TA psychotherapy skills in practice. Divided into seven manageable sections, the 100 key points cover: the philosophy, theory, methods and critique of the main approaches to TA TA perspectives on the therapeutic relationship diagnosis, contracting and treatment planning using TA a trouble shooting guide to avoiding common pitfalls refining therapeutic skills As such this book is essential reading for trainee TA therapists, those preparing for examinations as well as experienced practitioners who will find much practical guidance on the skilful and mindful application of this cohesive system of psychotherapy.
Transactional Analysis: 100 Key Points and Techniques (100 Key Points)
by Mark WiddowsonThe second edition of Transactional Analysis: 100 Key Points and Techniques synthesizes developments in Transactional Analysis (TA) and psychotherapy research, making complex ideas accessible and offering therapists practical guidance on refining TA psychotherapy skills. Divided into seven parts, the 100 key points cover: • The philosophy, theory, methods and critique of the main approaches to TA • New developments and approaches in TA • TA perspectives on the therapeutic relationship • Client assessment, diagnosis and case formulation • Contracting and treatment planning using TA • A troubleshooting guide to avoiding common pitfalls • Refining therapeutic skills Specific updates incorporate emergent approaches in TA, recent developments in the understanding of neurodiversity and current best practice thinking. This book is essential reading for trainee and beginner TA therapists, as well as experienced practitioners looking to update their field knowledge for a skilful and mindful application of this cohesive system of psychotherapy.
Transactional Analysis: 100 Key Points and Techniques (100 Key Points)
by Mark WiddowsonThe second edition of Transactional Analysis: 100 Key Points and Techniques synthesizes developments in Transactional Analysis (TA) and psychotherapy research, making complex ideas accessible and offering therapists practical guidance on refining TA psychotherapy skills. Divided into seven parts, the 100 key points cover: • The philosophy, theory, methods and critique of the main approaches to TA • New developments and approaches in TA • TA perspectives on the therapeutic relationship • Client assessment, diagnosis and case formulation • Contracting and treatment planning using TA • A troubleshooting guide to avoiding common pitfalls • Refining therapeutic skills Specific updates incorporate emergent approaches in TA, recent developments in the understanding of neurodiversity and current best practice thinking. This book is essential reading for trainee and beginner TA therapists, as well as experienced practitioners looking to update their field knowledge for a skilful and mindful application of this cohesive system of psychotherapy.
Trans Women and HIV: Social Psychological Perspectives
by Rusi JaspalThis book explores the social psychological aspects of trans women’s experiences of living with HIV in the UK. Drawing on theories from social psychology, the author provides a fine-grained analysis of the EXTRA Study – one of the first in-depth empirical studies of trans women’s experiences of living with HIV in the UK.Trans Women and HIV: Social Psychological Perspectives examines issues of identity, threat and coping among trans women – a key population in the HIV epidemic – and presents a model for describing and predicting health outcomes in this population. Underpinned by the Health Adversity Risk Model, this book examines the role of psychological constructs, such as identity, risk and stigma, in behaviour and psychological wellbeing. This informative and thought-provoking text is an invaluable resource for scholars, clinicians and students working in the fields of HIV and trans health.
Trans Sex: Clinical Approaches to Trans Sexualities and Erotic Embodiments
by Lucie FieldingDespite the increasing visibility of trans and non-binary folx in media, political representation, and popular culture, their sexual lives and erotic embodiments are woefully under-attended-to in both scholarship and clinical practice. The aim of this book is to equip providers with both conceptual frameworks and concrete tools for better engaging their trans, non-binary, and gender expansive clients in pleasure-centered discussions of sexual health. Challenging the dominant images of trans sexualities that appear in the existing literature, such as an emphasis on avoiding gender dysphoria, the preservation of sexual function, or on sexual losses that may arise as a result of transition pathways, Trans Sex offers a pleasure-positive approach to working with trans clients. Providing concrete clinical practices and practical activities that utilize social justice, intersectional trans feminism, and radical queer theory as key conceptual frameworks, this groundbreaking text is designed to be accessible to a wide range of providers. This book draws on Fielding’s experiences as both a trans client/patient and as a therapist to shift and expand the conversation and includes contributions from other trans and non-binary providers working at the intersection of gender-affirmative care and sexuality. Trans Sex seeks to move trans sexualities from the margins of gender-affirmative clinical practice, to center pleasure, and to spark creativity and empathic attunement within the client-provider relationship. Whether they be mental health or medical providers, trainees, or seasoned practitioners in gender-affirmative work or sexualities, readers will be able harness creative strategies to enhance their practice and become more imaginative providers.
Trans Sex: Clinical Approaches to Trans Sexualities and Erotic Embodiments
by Lucie FieldingDespite the increasing visibility of trans and non-binary folx in media, political representation, and popular culture, their sexual lives and erotic embodiments are woefully under-attended-to in both scholarship and clinical practice. The aim of this book is to equip providers with both conceptual frameworks and concrete tools for better engaging their trans, non-binary, and gender expansive clients in pleasure-centered discussions of sexual health. Challenging the dominant images of trans sexualities that appear in the existing literature, such as an emphasis on avoiding gender dysphoria, the preservation of sexual function, or on sexual losses that may arise as a result of transition pathways, Trans Sex offers a pleasure-positive approach to working with trans clients. Providing concrete clinical practices and practical activities that utilize social justice, intersectional trans feminism, and radical queer theory as key conceptual frameworks, this groundbreaking text is designed to be accessible to a wide range of providers. This book draws on Fielding’s experiences as both a trans client/patient and as a therapist to shift and expand the conversation and includes contributions from other trans and non-binary providers working at the intersection of gender-affirmative care and sexuality. Trans Sex seeks to move trans sexualities from the margins of gender-affirmative clinical practice, to center pleasure, and to spark creativity and empathic attunement within the client-provider relationship. Whether they be mental health or medical providers, trainees, or seasoned practitioners in gender-affirmative work or sexualities, readers will be able harness creative strategies to enhance their practice and become more imaginative providers.
Trans Reproductive and Sexual Health: Justice, Embodiment and Agency (Women and Psychology)
by Damien W. Riggs Jane M. Ussher Kerry H. Robinson Shoshana RosenbergFocusing on reproductive and sexual justice, this important book explores in detail both the challenges that trans people face when negotiating reproductive and sexual health in restrictive social contexts, and their agency in advocating for change. Chapters cover a breadth of topics such as intimacy, sexual violence, reproductive intentions, sexuality education, oncology, and pregnancy, introducing readers to the latest research in the field as well as key emerging concepts. The authors identify core principles for trans reproductive and sexual justice, providing a broad overview of what is currently succeeding and what can be built on going into the future. Trans Reproductive and Sexual Health offers a comprehensive exploration that is essential reading for academics and students in psychology, sociology, gender studies, and related areas, as well as clinicians and policy makers, offering direct implications for professional audiences working in health and social care.
Trans Reproductive and Sexual Health: Justice, Embodiment and Agency (Women and Psychology)
by Damien W. Riggs Jane M. Ussher Kerry H. Robinson Shoshana RosenbergFocusing on reproductive and sexual justice, this important book explores in detail both the challenges that trans people face when negotiating reproductive and sexual health in restrictive social contexts, and their agency in advocating for change. Chapters cover a breadth of topics such as intimacy, sexual violence, reproductive intentions, sexuality education, oncology, and pregnancy, introducing readers to the latest research in the field as well as key emerging concepts. The authors identify core principles for trans reproductive and sexual justice, providing a broad overview of what is currently succeeding and what can be built on going into the future. Trans Reproductive and Sexual Health offers a comprehensive exploration that is essential reading for academics and students in psychology, sociology, gender studies, and related areas, as well as clinicians and policy makers, offering direct implications for professional audiences working in health and social care.
Trans People’s Partnerships: Towards an Ethics of Intimacy (Palgrave Macmillan Studies in Family and Intimate Life)
by Tam SangerAs intimate lives become more public, and discussions of gender and sexuality more complex, there is a need to rethink how we engage with our own perceptions and identifications with respect to intimacy. This book explores whether our intimate desires are limited by social norms and expectations, and if so what we might be able to do about it.
The Trans Guide to Mental Health and Well-Being
by Katy Lees'The resource trans people need right now' MEG-JOHN BARKER'An excellent book' JOS TWIST'Straightforward and accessible' JENNIE KERMODEThis empowering self-help guide provides advice and strategies for trans and/or non-binary people on a range of common mental health issues including anxiety, depression, body image, trauma, suicidal thoughts and dissociation. It provides advice on neutralising negative thoughts, coping with transphobia, coming out, dealing with imposter syndrome, and implementing achievable self-care strategies and mindfulness techniques.Whether you are in a crisis or just looking for ways to improve your life, this reassuring guide is there for you to use in the way that helps you the most, regardless of where you are in your transition, or if you decide not to transition in conventional ways. Combining therapeutic expertise alongside first-hand experience, the book also highlights the importance of understanding and being proud of who you are, to help you live life to the fullest.
Trans-generational Trauma and the Other: Dialogues across history and difference (Relational Perspectives Book Series)
by Sue Grand Jill SalbergOften, our trans-generational legacies are stories of 'us' and 'them' that never reach their terminus. We carry fixed narratives, and the ghosts of our perpetrators and of our victims. We long to be subjects in our own history, but keep reconstituting the Other as an object in their own history. Trans-generational Trauma and the Other argues that healing requires us to engage with the Other who carries a corresponding pre-history. Without this dialogue, alienated ghosts can become persecutory objects, in psyche, politics, and culture. This volume examines the violent loyalties of the past, the barriers to dialogue with our Other, and complicates the inter-subjectivity of Big History. Identifying our inherited narratives and relinquishing splitting, these authors ask how we can re-cast our Other, and move beyond dysfunctional repetitions - in our individual lives and in society. Featuring rich clinical material, Trans-generational Trauma and the Other provides an invaluable guide to expanding the application of trans-generational transmission in psychoanalysis. It will appeal to psychoanalysts, psychoanalytic psychotherapists and trauma experts.
Trans-generational Trauma and the Other: Dialogues across history and difference (Relational Perspectives Book Series)
by Sue Grand Jill SalbergOften, our trans-generational legacies are stories of 'us' and 'them' that never reach their terminus. We carry fixed narratives, and the ghosts of our perpetrators and of our victims. We long to be subjects in our own history, but keep reconstituting the Other as an object in their own history. Trans-generational Trauma and the Other argues that healing requires us to engage with the Other who carries a corresponding pre-history. Without this dialogue, alienated ghosts can become persecutory objects, in psyche, politics, and culture. This volume examines the violent loyalties of the past, the barriers to dialogue with our Other, and complicates the inter-subjectivity of Big History. Identifying our inherited narratives and relinquishing splitting, these authors ask how we can re-cast our Other, and move beyond dysfunctional repetitions - in our individual lives and in society. Featuring rich clinical material, Trans-generational Trauma and the Other provides an invaluable guide to expanding the application of trans-generational transmission in psychoanalysis. It will appeal to psychoanalysts, psychoanalytic psychotherapists and trauma experts.
Trans and Sexuality: An existentially-informed enquiry with implications for counselling psychology (Explorations in Mental Health)
by Christina RichardsGrounded in cutting-edge qualitative research, Trans and Sexuality explores the sexuality of people who do not identify with the gender that they were assigned at birth. Arguing that whilst splitting members of the trans community into distinct groups might seem like a reasonable theoretical procedure, the pervasive assumption that group membership impacts on the sexuality of trans people has unduly biased opinions in this highly contested, yet dramatically under-researched area. Moreover, whilst existing literature has taken a purely positivistic standpoint, or relies on methodology that could be seen as exploitative towards trans people, Richards is careful to place the real-life experiences of trans research participants at the heart of the work. Showing that sexuality extends beyond the bedroom, this forward-thinking book touches on topics such as identity, sexuality and the intersections between the two. Richards takes a cross-disciplinary approach and considers the sexuality of trans people within the contexts of psychiatric and psychological settings, including Gender Identity Clinics, as well as in the broader contexts of cultural and community settings. The implications of the research at hand are also explored with respect to counselling psychology and existentialist philosophy. Trans and Sexuality will appeal to academics, researchers and postgraduate students in the fields of gender and sexuality, counselling, sociology, psychotherapy, psychology and psychiatry. It will be of particular interest to those seeking an in-depth and up-to-date overview of ethics and methodologies with people from marginalised sexualities and genders.
Trans and Sexuality: An existentially-informed enquiry with implications for counselling psychology (Explorations in Mental Health)
by Christina RichardsGrounded in cutting-edge qualitative research, Trans and Sexuality explores the sexuality of people who do not identify with the gender that they were assigned at birth. Arguing that whilst splitting members of the trans community into distinct groups might seem like a reasonable theoretical procedure, the pervasive assumption that group membership impacts on the sexuality of trans people has unduly biased opinions in this highly contested, yet dramatically under-researched area. Moreover, whilst existing literature has taken a purely positivistic standpoint, or relies on methodology that could be seen as exploitative towards trans people, Richards is careful to place the real-life experiences of trans research participants at the heart of the work. Showing that sexuality extends beyond the bedroom, this forward-thinking book touches on topics such as identity, sexuality and the intersections between the two. Richards takes a cross-disciplinary approach and considers the sexuality of trans people within the contexts of psychiatric and psychological settings, including Gender Identity Clinics, as well as in the broader contexts of cultural and community settings. The implications of the research at hand are also explored with respect to counselling psychology and existentialist philosophy. Trans and Sexuality will appeal to academics, researchers and postgraduate students in the fields of gender and sexuality, counselling, sociology, psychotherapy, psychology and psychiatry. It will be of particular interest to those seeking an in-depth and up-to-date overview of ethics and methodologies with people from marginalised sexualities and genders.
Trancework: An Introduction to the Practice of Clinical Hypnosis
by Michael D. YapkoFor three decades, Trancework has been the fundamental textbook for guiding professionals in learning hypnosis. Now in its fourth edition, this classic text continues to be the most comprehensive book for learning the fundamental skills of the field. This edition accommodates new studies and topics, and contains five new chapters on positive psychology, the management of pain, pediatric and adolescent hypnosis, behavioral medicine, and hypnosis across modalities. Readers can expect to receive a comprehensive overview of what is currently going on in the domain of hypnosis, an in-depth consideration of issues associated with the use of hypnosis, a greater appreciation for the diverse ways in which hypnosis can be applied, and a more detailed description of hypnotic methods and characteristics. Those new to the field will also appreciate the “Frames of Reference” sections found throughout the book, which provide insights into the work of some of the founders and leaders of clinical hypnosis. Each chapter concludes with suggestions from the author for things to consider and things to do, further emphasizing the importance of active learning. Included online at http://www.routledgementalhealth.com/books/details/9780415884945/ is the video of Dr. Yapko’s session with Vicki, an emotionally powerful and technically excellent session. For those who wish to follow along, a PDF download containing the session transcript is also available. Clinical Hypnosis has the power to change clients’ lives for the better. Trancework gives professionals the skills to do just that.
Trancework: An Introduction to the Practice of Clinical Hypnosis
by Michael D. YapkoFor three decades, Trancework has been the fundamental textbook for guiding professionals in learning hypnosis. Now in its fourth edition, this classic text continues to be the most comprehensive book for learning the fundamental skills of the field. This edition accommodates new studies and topics, and contains five new chapters on positive psychology, the management of pain, pediatric and adolescent hypnosis, behavioral medicine, and hypnosis across modalities. Readers can expect to receive a comprehensive overview of what is currently going on in the domain of hypnosis, an in-depth consideration of issues associated with the use of hypnosis, a greater appreciation for the diverse ways in which hypnosis can be applied, and a more detailed description of hypnotic methods and characteristics. Those new to the field will also appreciate the “Frames of Reference” sections found throughout the book, which provide insights into the work of some of the founders and leaders of clinical hypnosis. Each chapter concludes with suggestions from the author for things to consider and things to do, further emphasizing the importance of active learning. Included online at http://www.routledgementalhealth.com/books/details/9780415884945/ is the video of Dr. Yapko’s session with Vicki, an emotionally powerful and technically excellent session. For those who wish to follow along, a PDF download containing the session transcript is also available. Clinical Hypnosis has the power to change clients’ lives for the better. Trancework gives professionals the skills to do just that.
Trancework: An Introduction to the Practice of Clinical Hypnosis
by Michael D Yapko Michael D. YapkoFor nearly four decades, Trancework has been the definitive textbook for thousands of professionals undergoing training in the art and science of clinical hypnosis. Now in its 5th edition, this classic text continues its legacy of encouraging sound clinical practice based in established scientific research. This latest edition incorporates new studies and emerging topics within the field of hypnosis, including new chapters on depression and the construction of process-oriented interventions. Readers can expect to receive a comprehensive overview of current developments in the domain of hypnosis, an in-depth consideration of the practical and ethical issues associated with its use, and a greater appreciation for its many therapeutic applications. This thorough, engaging text equips professionals with the essential skills to change clients’ lives by using hypnosis to enhance treatment of both medical and psychological issues.
Trancework: An Introduction to the Practice of Clinical Hypnosis
by Michael D Yapko Michael D. YapkoFor nearly four decades, Trancework has been the definitive textbook for thousands of professionals undergoing training in the art and science of clinical hypnosis. Now in its 5th edition, this classic text continues its legacy of encouraging sound clinical practice based in established scientific research. This latest edition incorporates new studies and emerging topics within the field of hypnosis, including new chapters on depression and the construction of process-oriented interventions. Readers can expect to receive a comprehensive overview of current developments in the domain of hypnosis, an in-depth consideration of the practical and ethical issues associated with its use, and a greater appreciation for its many therapeutic applications. This thorough, engaging text equips professionals with the essential skills to change clients’ lives by using hypnosis to enhance treatment of both medical and psychological issues.
Trance-Migrations: Stories of India, Tales of Hypnosis
by Lee SiegelListen to what I am about to tell you: do not read this book alone. You really shouldn’t. In one of the most playful experiments ever put between two covers, every other section of Trance-Migrations prescribes that you read its incantatory tales out loud to a lover, friend, or confidant, in order to hypnotize in preparation for Lee Siegel’s exploration of an enchanting India. To read and hear this book is to experience a particular kind of relationship, and that’s precisely the point: hypnosis, the book will demonstrate, is an essential aspect of our most significant relationships, an inherent dimension of love, religion, medicine, politics, and literature, a fundamental dynamic between lover and beloved, deity and votary, physician and patient, ruler and subject, and, indeed, reader and listener. Even if you can’t read this with a partner—and I stress that you certainly ought to—you will still be in rich company. There is Shambaraswami, an itinerant magician, hypnotist, and storyteller to whom villagers turn for spells that will bring them wealth or love; José-Custodio de Faria, a Goan priest hypnotizing young and beautiful women in nineteenth-century Parisian salons; James Esdaile, a Scottish physician for the East India Company in Calcutta, experimenting on abject Bengalis with mesmerism as a surgical anesthetic; and Lee Siegel, a writer traveling in India to learn all that he can about hypnosis, yoga, past life regressions, colonialism, orientalism, magic spells, and, above all, the power of story. And then there is you: descending through these histories—these tales within tales, trances within trances, dreams within dreams—toward a place where the distinctions between reverie and reality dissolve. Here the world within the book and that in which the book is read come startlingly together. It’s one of the most creative works we have ever published, a dazzling combination of literary prowess, scholarly erudition, and psychological exploration—all tempered by warm humor and a sharp wit. It is informing, entertaining, and, above all, mesmerizing.