Synopses & Reviews
Problems of identity, sexual development, peer-group relationships, family dynamics-the teenage years can be tough on even the most well adjusted adolescent. In fact, it's not just teenagers displaying dysfunctional behavior who find themselves in therapy anymore. And as most therapists know, the last thing these young men and women want to do-regardless of the severity of the presenting problem-is form an intimate therapeutic relationship with a health care professional. This complicated circumstance can make the first session with a teen one of the most challenging a therapist can face.
The First Session with Teenagers is a practical, accessible guide that reveals how mental health care professionals can conduct a successful initial interview with reluctant and uncooperative adolescent clients. Written by Neil G. Ribner, a recognized expert in the field of family therapy and the treatment of teenagers, this important resource shows how to use the first therapeutic session to establish trust, engage the adolescent, and determine an effective plan of action that sets the tone for the entire course of treatment.
In clear, jargon-free language, the author offers clinicians at all levels of expertise (from the novice to the seasoned professional) a step-by-step process for working with adolescents during the pivotal first session. The book includes specific guidelines for interview techniques and a wealth of assessment strategies.
The flexible guidelines and suggestions outlined in this invaluable resource can be used when working with teenagers for the first time in a one-on-one therapy setting, family therapy, a school environment, or a criminal justice diversion program.
the tools you need to work with teens to establish trust, uncover hidden issues, and create an effective plan of action. . . all within the first session
Neil G. Ribner, a noted expert in the field of family therapy and the treatment of adolescents, offers clinicians a hands-on guide that shows how to conduct an effective initial interview with adolescent clients. Step-by-step, Ribner outlines an effective therapeutic plan of action that clearly demonstrates how the first session can be used to establish trust, engage the adolescent, and fashion an effective plan that sets the tone for the entire course of treatment. In addition, The First Session with Teenagers is filled with the information and tools clinicians need to:
- Establish long- and short-term therapeutic goals
- Work with teens from divorced and remarried homes or from different cultural backgrounds
- Plan ahead to offset common pitfalls and traps
- Frame the presenting problem so the teenager will engage
- Develop a realistic working contract with the client
"Neil Ribner doesn't talk in generalities, rely on clinical jargon, or underestimate the complex issues involved in working with adolescents. Using a large number of clinical vignettes from his vast experience, he shows how the therapist's ability to align him or herself with the adolescent client is what typically spells the difference between being helpful or getting blown off. In culturally sensitive, down to earth language, Ribner describes how to empathically connect with the fears, anxieties, and resentments of troubled teenagers and their families in ways that promote change."—Fred Weiner, psychologist, Counseling and Psychological Services Center, Ohio University
"In the most readable prose, Dr. Ribner outlines everything you want to know about initiating treatment with the adolescent client. Psychotherapists in training in all disciplines should read this manageable and straightforward book; their supervisors and other experienced clinicians could also benefit from this compact yet comprehensive reminder."—Donald J. Viglione, professor and director, Clinical Doctor of Psychology Program, California School of Professional Psychology, San Diego
"Refreshing and direct . . . this book will benefit those who work with adolescents in a variety of settings."—Joanne E. Callan, professor, California School of Professional Psychology
Synopsis
The First Session with Teenagers is a practical, accessible guide that reveals how mental health care professionals can conduct a successful initial interview with reluctant and uncooperative adolescent clients. Written by Neil G. Ribner, a recognized expert in the field of family therapy and the treatment of teenagers, this important resource shows how to use the first therapeutic session to establish trust, engage the adolescent, and determine an effective plan of action that sets the tone for the entire course of treatment. In clear, jargon-free language, the author offers clinicians at all levels of expertise (from the novice to the seasoned professional) a step-by-step process for working with adolescents during the pivotal first session.
Synopsis
The tools you need to work with teens to establish trust, uncover hidden issues, and create an effective plan of action. . . all within the first sessionNeil G. Ribner, a noted expert in the field of family therapy and the treatment of adolescents, offers clinicians an effective therapeutic plan of action that clearly demonstrates how the first session can be used to establish trust, engage the adolescent, and set the tone for the entire course of treatment.
"Neil Ribner doesn't talk in generalities, rely on clinical jargon, or underestimate the complex issues involved in working with adolescents. Using a large number of clinical vignettes from his vast experience, he shows how the therapist's ability to align him or herself with the adolescent client is what typically spells the difference between being helpful or getting blown off. In culturally sensitive, down to earth language, Ribner describes how to empathically connect with the fears, anxieties, and resentments of troubled teenagers and their families in ways that promote change."
—FRED WEINER, psychologist, Counseling and Psychological Services Center, Ohio University
"In the most readable prose, Dr. Ribner outlines everything you want to know about initiating treatment with the adolescent client. Psychotherapists in training in all disciplines should read this manageable and straightforward book; their supervisors and other experienced clinicians could also benefit from this compact yet comprehensive reminder."
—DONALD J. VIGLIONE, professor and director, Clinical Doctor of Psychology Program, California School of Professional Psychology, San Diego
"Refreshing and direct . . . this book will benefit those who work with adolescents in a variety of settings."
—JOANNE E. CALLAN, professor, California School of Professional Psychology
Synopsis
NEIL G. RIBNER is associate professor and director of the Child Custody and Family Services Center at the California School of Professional Psychology in San Diego. He also has a private practice specializing in family therapy and treating adolescents.Series EditorJeanne Heaton, author of Building Basic Therapeutic Skills, is a psychologist at Ohio University's Counseling and Psychology Services and is in private practice in Athens, Ohio.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 165-171) and index.
Table of Contents
Foreword, Jeanne Albronda Heaton.
Acknowledgments.
Preface.
Introduction.
Adolescent Development.
Presenting Problems.
Preparing for the First Session.
The First Session.
The Process of the First Session.
Special Populations.
Case Study: Jeremy.
Afterword.
Notes.
References.
The Author.
Index.