This is a key text for courses in the helping professions that will assist students in learning the basic skills of helping. The course is a requirement for any student in counselling, psychotherapy or social work as it prepares students for the work they will be doing with clients.

With a focus on developing skills that are collaborative by involving the client in the helping process/solution and it has an integrated focus on multicultural skills and social justice. The author first outlines the basic process of counselling and counsellor self-care, then goes on to conversation and counselling, receiving, attending, listening, positive regard, empathy and connection. He then moves onto the basics of developing a relationship with the client as well as relating to the experience. Finally, a look is taken at the treatment-planning stage via a shared experience by involving the client in the process.

Every chapter contains the following pedagogy:

- case study

- sample dialogue

- chapter objectives

- boxed capsules to highlight key skills

- reflections on practice

- experiential exercises

- questions for reflection

- video demonstrations.