Book Being Reviewed:
Kottler, J. (2010). On being a therapist (4th ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Reviewer:
Angela Catena

Genre:
Self-help, Other

Subject Headings:
Health/wellness, Relationships

Review:
This book is a helpful tool and reminder to clinicians of every skill and experience level. Jeffrey Kottler (2010) explores the good, bad, and the ugly of being a mental health practitioner. He ties together personal motives for becoming a therapist with the political, cultural, and social contexts for the relationships we cultivate and uphold. The author provides an honest account of challenges therapists may encounter, including experiencing disappointment, failures, and navigating our own imperfections. On Being a Therapist digs deep into the author’s experiences and provides both validation and universality amongst mental health professionals alike. In addition to the plethora of experiences one may encounter, Kottler (2010) provides approaches to mitigating the negative side effects of being a helper in an effort to maximize its rewards. The author’s passion and respect for the profession is felt throughout the pages of his book.

This book is ideal for new and seasoned clinicians as well as those looking to reinvigorate their passion and career as mental health professionals. While the author provides an intimate and transparent account of his personal and professional experiences, some may not meet his cynicism with open and welcoming arms. This book includes the "dirty little secrets" of being a therapist, such as the stress of being a helper, working with clients that test our patience, and the mental and emotional tolls that can lead to burnout. These rather honest experiences may foster hesitation amongst new clinicians or be viewed as a breath of fresh air.