Robert W. Firestone

Joyce Catlett

Richard Seiden

Based on 28 years of research into the problem of resistance, this book offers a consistently developed hypothesis centering around the concept of the "Fantasy Bond, " an illusion of connection originally formed with the mother and later with significant others in the individual's environment.

The Structure of Psychological Defenses

The Fantasy Bond

Many people grapple with destructive thought processes or a "critical inner voice" that directs their behavior and, to varying degrees, limits their lives. Using deeply personal and very human stories based on his own clinical practice, noted psychologist Robert W. Firestone illustrates the struggles of his clients to give words to this "enemy within," and in the process overcome its damaging influence. These revealing and captivating stories offer glimpses into the uniquely human relationship that develops in the therapeutic encounter and demonstrate the powerful impact that the experience has on both client and therapist. Dr. Firestone is the originator of a therapeutic method called "Voice Therapy," by which clients learn to identify the language of the defense system and eventually separate their own point of view from its harmful effects. Each story provides an intimate look into one person's life, illuminates aspects of his or her "dark side," and highlights an important insight into the therapeutic process. This sensitively written book will evoke emotional responses in readers, and inspire them to take action to challenge the dictates of their own inner critic. Taken together, these stories underscore the distinctive merits and continuing relevance of the therapeutic process, especially in our distracted, technological world increasingly detached from feeling.

True Stories of Therapy and Transformation

Overcoming the Destructive Inner Voice

In this brilliantly conceived and revolutionary work, Dr.Firestone develops the theory and underlying dynamics involved in disturbed family relationships and negative parental attitudes that characterize generally accepted patterns of child-rearing. The author expands on thephenomenological descriptions of the traditional abuses of children previously offered by Alice Miller, R. D. Laing, James Garbarino, and others, and explains how well-intentioned parents unwittingly injure their children's self-esteem and psychological functioning.

An In-Depth Approach to Optimal Parenting

Compassionate Child-Rearing

Lisa A. Firestone

In Sex and Love in Intimate Relationships, Firestone and his co-authors help therapists help their clients. Drawing on their forty years of combined clinical experience and a unique longitudinal study of couples and families, they propose that sexual problems are largely related to defenses acquired through painful childhood experiences. In accessible language and through the liberal use of case material from therapy sessions, the authors show how clients can be helped to overcome these challenges and become physically and emotionally closer to their partners.

Robert W. Firestone

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