Love's Executioner and Other Tales of Psychotherapy https://www.csi-net.org/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1134251 Mon, 15 Jun 2026 18:37:32 GMT Sat, 8 Aug 2015 02:52:35 GMT Copyright © 2015 Chi Sigma Iota Love's Executioner and Other Tales of Psychotherapy https://www.csi-net.org/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1134251 https://www.csi-net.org/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1134251 Love's Executioner and Other Tales of Psychotherapy

Book Being Reviewed:
Yalom, I. D. (1990). Love's Executioner and Other Tales of Psychotherapy. New York, NY: Perennial Classics.

Reviewer:
Robin DuFresne

Genre:
Non-Fiction - Adult

Subject Headings:
Relationships

Review:
Dr. Irvin Yalom, a renowned psychiatrist and psychotherapist, shares stories from his practice in Love’s Executioner and Other Tales of Psychotherapy. This 286 page book is divided into ten chapters. In each chapter Dr. Yalom’s describes his experience with a client, or clients, who triggers a bias within him that stunts the development of a therapeutic relationship. He discusses his process to reflect and attempt to overcome the bias; he has varied success in each case. Dr. Yalom’s writing style brings life to each client. The chapters are individual stories which can be read separately without detracting from the meaning.

Love’s Executioner and Other Tales of Psychotherapy serves as a resource for counselors who are struggling to connect with a client. For beginning counselors, Dr. Yalom’s experience normalizes their first encounter with a client who challenges their abilities. Counselors with significant experience will enjoy the descriptions and reflect on their experiences with challenging clients. I read this book a chapter at a time during my first months as a practicing counselor; I am rereading this book as I teach reflection and basic helping skills to undergraduates. In both circumstances the book has reminded me to be reflective in all of my interactions with people.
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