An Introduction to Transactional Analysis

Book excerpt: This thoroughly revised edition of Transactional Analysis Counselling introduces the theory and practice of TA - which integrates cognitive behavioural and psychodynamic theories within a humanistic philosophy - from a unique relational perspective. While most TA books focus on one field, this approach demonstrates the benefits of TA across a wide variety of helping settings, business and management, education and coaching as well as counselling. Case studies from a variety of contexts bring TA to life for trainees in any of these disciplines, and the accessible, engaging writing style makes difficult concepts understandable for undergraduates and postgraduates alike. Bringing their book into the twenty-first century, expert authors Phil Lapworth and Charlotte Sills provide a brief history of TA followed by individual chapters on the concepts and techniques used. Each chapter is devoted to one concept and includes a detailed definition and description, and suggestions for application in practice. Exercises for student, practitioner and client, boxed summaries, diagrams, checklists and sources of further reading make this the ideal text for use in training. This book is an essential companion for those embarking on specialist TA courses or studying TA as part of wider training, while those who want simply to integrate TA into their work with people can dip into it as suits their needs.