Social Construction of Mental Illness and Its Implications for Neuroplasticity - by Michael T Walker (Hardcover)

About the Book

The Social Construction of Mental Illness and Its Implications for Neuroplasticity examines how the current concept of mental illness in society informs the dialogic skills and perspectives of psychotherapists.

Book Synopsis

The Social Construction of Mental Illness and Its Implications for Neuroplasticity examines how the current concept of mental illness in society informs the dialogic skills and perspectives of psychotherapists.

Review Quotes

In clear and compelling terms, Walker joins a phalanx of critics who challenge the constraining and injurious practice of mental illness diagnosis. However, Walker draws from his extensive experience as a therapist and coach to explore a humanistic alternative to knee-jerk drug prescriptions. As he demonstrates, the results of artful compassion are indeed consistent with those of contemporary neuroscience. This is essential reading for therapists and the public alike.

This passionate and captivating book offers important clarifications and distinctions at a crucial time in the history of postmodern ideas. It is a professionally inspiring read for anyone interested in incorporating neuroscience in psychotherapy while honoring the complexity of human life experience. It will definitely be on my students' required reading list.

Walker challenges us to break free from the taken for granted beliefs of the medical model, which have long suffered from a frozen worldview and hardened categories. He invites us to cross the threshold into a postmodern landscape, an indeterminate space where therapy is practiced as an art form, where language generates new realities and multiple possibilities, and where intersubjectivity becomes the therapist's 'studio' and the 'key to neuroplasticity'. I strongly recommend this timely book.

About the Author

Michael T. Walker, PhD, is practicing psychologist in Los Angeles.