Healing in Action

This book is an impressive tour de force as it integrates the simplest forms of play with the most complex psychological dynamics that unfold as we work with mental illness and addiction. The most outstanding characteristic is its availability to the relatively new and inexperienced activity therapist and its simultaneously profound implications for the more seasoned and sophisticated psychotherapist, particularly those of us who practice group psychotherapy. -- Jeffrey D. Roth, Jeffrey D. Roth, MD, lecturer, department of psychiatry, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, and medical director, Working Sobriety Chicago
Barney Straus has created a very useful guide for integrating group activities and exercises into the practice of group psychotherapy. Throughout the book, he recognizes the importance of these activities and understands the meaning and process of their implementation and impact. This thoughtful approach to Adventure-Based Counseling will be of interest to group therapists broadly and those treating patients with trauma or addictions in particular. -- Molyn Leszcz, Molyn Leszcz, MD, CGP, professor, department of psychiatry, University of Toronto, and president-elect, American Group Psychotherapy Association
Straus provides another resource where we can pull his book off the shelf, get clients out of their chairs, and walk the talk of adventure therapy. No longer is staying on the couch the way to approach therapy. -- Michael Gass, PhD, LMFT, College of Health and Human Services, University of New Hampshire