An Introduction to Counselling and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, Practice and Social Purpose, 7th Edition

John McLeods accessible bestseller provides a comprehensive, research-informed overview of the theory and practice of counselling and psychotherapy. Now in its seventh edition, this leading introduction to the discipline has been expanded to include a renewed focus on social justice, the use of technology in therapy, non-Western traditions, socio-political and decolonising perspectives, and working with clients who are considering taking their own lives.

The book retains its comprehensive coverage of both mainstream and emerging approaches to therapy, and professional issues such as supervision, training, therapist development, ethical standards and research-informed practice. New to this edition is wider coverage of issues such as racism, the climate crisis, gender and sexuality; debates around neuroscience, spirituality and integrative approaches to therapy; and third-wave transdiagnostic cognitive-behavioural therapies such as ACT, mindfulness and FAP.


Fully revised and updated throughout, the seventh edition also contains:
Access to complementary online resources
Case studies
Landmark and contemporary research studies
Critical analysis of the cultural, historical and social context of therapeutic approaches
Reflection and discussion topics
Suggestions for further reading

This book equips readers with the confidence to navigate and apply a range of therapeutic models. Building on the authors extensive research and professional experience, the 7th edition of an introduction to counselling and psychotherapy remains the definitive guide for students and practitioners.

john mcleod is a household name in the world of C&P education. John has held Professorial position at the Universities of Keele, Abertay, Oslo, Padua, and Massey and at the Institute for Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy, Dublin. He has published 14 books and more than 100 articles and chapters, and has an international reputation as a leading figure in counselling and psychotherapy practice and research.