Existential Perspectives in Transactional Analysis

'This is an excellent book: well-conceptualised, well-structured, well-researched, and well-written. In it, Rachel Cook brings her keen interest in and extensive knowledge of existential philosophy to bear on transactional analysis (TA); and, in doing so, fills some significant gaps in the espousal of existentialism by both Eric Berne and subsequent TA authors, including and centrally, by elaborating a model of adult development. As well as being theoretical, the book is deeply reflective, inviting the reader to think for – and about – themselves; and its accessibility and, therefore, practicality, is enhanced by the author’s extensive use of case material drawn from her own practice, as well as poignant illustrations from her own life. In this Cook certainly achieves the – that is, her own – very human presence she sets out to do in the writing of book – and, now, in the reading of book. In this sense, I consider that the author demonstrates her humanism as well as her existentialism. In addition to her thorough and thoughtful discussion of adult development (comprising six chapters that form the second half of the book), there are other gems, including (in the first part of the book) chapters on authenticity, alienation, and encounter; on diagnosis, contracting, and treatment planning; and, a rare discussion (in TA), on self-disclosure. This is a book that warrants reading and re-reading, and is a must read for all TA practitioners, especially clinicians, as well as TA trainers and supervisors in all fields.'

Keith Tudor, PhD, TSTA(P), Professor of Psychotherapy, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand

'There is no doubt that Rachel Cook makes a real contribution to the TA literature with her ground-breaking existential approach – in particular she offers a model that charts the existential issues and challenges that accompany an adult’s journey through the stages of life. She describes an in-depth methodology, from initial contact and contract, through to ending, ‘for working with the existential dilemmas of adulthood, where growth can be about coming to terms with the existential givens of life rather than simply resolving psychodynamic disturbance’ (p.82).

However, the book is more than that. It is a sort of rich autobiography that tracks the professional and personal development of the author as she develops a thoughtful and meaningful approach to psychotherapy, which will be useful not only for transactional analysts but any psychotherapist who wants to expand their approach to encompass existential thought. It is an enormously engaging read. Some parts are meticulously academic, such as Chapter 1, which plots the development of existential philosophy and psychotherapy within and outside of TA before embarking on her own ideas. Those parts are rich with theory and references; every concept is clearly explained and its history and evolution described; cultural differences are recognised and respected. Other parts are almost conversational - deeply personal and courageously self-disclosing, especially in the many vignettes and case studies that accompany and illustrate the ideas. It is a feast of a book.'

Professor Charlotte Sills, Hult Ashridge Business School, Metanoia Institute. UK

'Rachel Cook delivers a profound exploration of the existential dimension in psychotherapy, tracing its historical evolution from existential philosophy to therapeutic practice. She examines the development of Transactional Analysis (TA) from its existential foundations to a psychodynamic framework, skilfully reclaiming its potential as an existential psychotherapy. Tailored to different life stages—from adulthood transitions to maturation, self-clarification, and life’s final phases—the book offers therapists a clear, actionable framework.

A core theme is what it means to approach therapy from an existential perspective, beginning with diagnosis and extending to treatment planning. The author integrates modern TA approaches, such as relational and co-creative therapy, creating a bridge between established principles and contemporary practices.

This work is a significant contribution to psychotherapy, embedding a proven theory into a comprehensive existential framework. It provides guidance for therapists navigating their own dilemmas and supporting clients in confronting existential challenges. By combining traditional and modern approaches, the book offers both theoretical depth and practical tools for today’s practitioners.

Through insightful analysis and moving case studies, the author crafts an inspiring text that centres human existence in therapeutic work. It is a valuable resource for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding and enhance their practice.'

Thorsten Geck, TSTA (O), President of International Transactional Analysis Association, ITAA

'In this deeply personal and engaging book Rachel Cook offers us something we have been waiting for without knowing it. She returns to Eric Berne’s existential thinking and locates TA, therapy and other professional encounters in a wider world than that of medical diagnosis or pathologising approaches. She takes us, step by step, through the grounding ideas of TA and explores a new perspective; key is her ‘existential transactions’ which cast a new light on therapy. Her focus, soundly rooted in existentialist philosophy, is on meaning, empathy and encounter as she asks ‘how can we not be philosophical?’ in what we do as practitioners and as ethical people. Building further on co-creative, relational and narrative approaches in TA, she inspires us as therapists and other practitioners to enter a ‘more than human world’ in our work through ongoing reflection and authentic contact with others.'

Trudi Newton, TSTA (E), Award-winning writer and educator in the field of Transactional Analysis. UK