Reviews (2)

An amazing book
I had the privilege to attend the weekend workshop on which this book is based about six years ago. It was a life-changing experience for me in my recovery from food addiction. This book is almost a word-for-word replica of that workshop (and was approved by the leaders of the workshop). For anyone struggling to understand the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, read this book immediately. It is true to the heart and soul of the "big Book" and completely modernizes the information so that it's easy to understand in today's world.
A Program For You
A very readable, thorough, and helpful overview of the AA Big Book. This is actually a textual version of the well known weekend long Big Book Study seminars given by two gentlemen who shall remain anonymous as in the book.I found this to be a great way to delve into the Big Book again and look atit in a structured fashion. Once you are finished with this book you willhave learned about the history of AA, the history of the Big Book, read theBig Book, and actually studied the Big Book.It also contains generalinformation on the disease of alcoholism. I believe that this is arefreshing look at the Big Book and will lead you on the path that theoriginal AA members intended for you to follow. Most AA members at sometime feel that they have received most of the information that the Big Bookhas to offer, this book will give you a new plan to study the Big Book andwill renew your interest in the wonderful program of AA. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alcoholics    2. Alcoholics Anonymous    3. Recovery    4. Rehabilitation    5. Self-Help    6. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    7. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    8. Twelve-step programs    9. W., Bill    10. W., Bill.    11. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    12. Popular psychology    13. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (24)

Glad I read some of her other stuff first
This book is okay.I think her book "Where to Draw the Line" was much better.Still this is a good workbook format and Dr. Katherine is the boundary master.Not sorry I bought it, but would recommend going to the other book first.

pretty good
boundaries is an issue of considerable difficulty for most folks.knowing when to allow yourself to be pulled in versus isolating.while most of us settle in somewhere in the middle, most folks face boundary problems with someone - a parent, child, spouse, co-worker...this is a fairly short book.it does not discuss ad nausium scholarly, research, or theoretical bases.it discusses numerous topics that can be of immense help as well as some (very) good exercises.this book is an easy read and relatively well written.i think it is worthwhile perusing for the individual experiencing boundary concerns.i think it is definitely worth the used price, possibly new.

Disappointed
No real practical advise.
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Subjects:  1. General    2. Human relations    3. Interpersonal Relations    4. Intimacy (Psychology)    5. Psychology    6. Recovery    7. Popular psychology    8. Psychology & Psychiatry / General   

Reviews (7)

Repeat After Me is worth the money
This book contains some nice information and is a worthwhile read.
"Repeat" is not Realistic
This is a work book designed to help ACOAs break free of the constraints of their upbringing.I am an ACOA and, like you reading my review, wanted to believe that re-training my thinking and outlook through these text book exercises would improve my life.I am sorry to say that is NOT realistic.The book is juvenile and tiresome with it's page after page of lists of feelings and events.Also, it is nothing more than her earlier book "It will never happen to me" with these exercises punctuating each paradigm.My best recommendation would be to purchase her original book and save your time, hope and money by passing over the temptation to commit to Repeat after Me work book.The original book is quite insightful and thought provoking on it's own.Good luck.

Recommended by my doctor
I haven't ordered this book yet, but it was recommended my pshyciatrist.As for causing more pain, well, when it comes to matters like these, it's going to happen.I will be using this in conjunction with medication to help me out of my depression, caused by my mentally abusive childhood.It usually gets worse before it gets better...No pain, No gain...I am doing this for me and my family. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Conduct of life    2. Emotions    3. Fiction - General    4. General    5. Recovery    6. Self-esteem    7. Early learning / early learning concepts   

Reviews (27)

Clinical, not spiritual, a little tough to read
I've read a lot of break up books since my break up.This book was helpful, but not sure if it actually helped me?Anyway, I found 2 sites...one for girls and for guys that ended up helping me because of the support groups. brokenheartedgirl.com and brokenheartedguy.com.Sometimes you need to talk to people and they also recommend other books.

Excellent
The book was really helpful on overcoming my breakup.The book has really good information in it.The best information that I have found yet.In my opinion I highly recomend this book to anyone who is going through divorce or a breakup of any kind.
Average
It covers most of the major themes dealing with loss.It reads a bit slow and some parts are not interesting. Rebuilding is significantly better book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. General    2. Interpersonal Relations    3. Psychology    4. Self-Help    5. Self-Help / Recovery   

Reviews (12)

Wonderful Resource
This is an incredible book that I bought in my early recovery and it has been with me along the journey and will stay with me for the continuance of my sober path.Its a great resource for those getting sober, staying sober, and clinicians who work in the field of addictions.I highly recommend that you grab a copy and keep it close to you.

the recovery book
very educational for someone who knows or is close to an addicted person. Gives a great alternitive to other self help programs. well written and easy to follow.

Great!
This book does not allow for excuses, it answers every question you may have, and addresses every fear.By far the best book on recovery I have ever read. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alcoholics    2. Drug addicts    3. Handbooks, manuals, etc    4. Recovery    5. Rehabilitation    6. Self-Help    7. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    8. Coping with drug & alcohol abuse    9. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (9)

This was a life saver
This book helped me see who I am.The way I think, is clearly in this book.I can't remember part of my childhood and I thought I was abnormal. Reading this book, I have come to find outthat I am quite normal for a child of an alcoholic.If you are a adult child of an alcoholic, I urge you to read this book and see if it helps you too.

A very good start
The ideal book if you are beginning your journey of recovery due to alcoholics. It give many answers to initial questions. It does not give any lasting answers to the great mysteries of life but that is not its purpose anyway.So...a good start

shocked
About ten years ago I was in a book-store in Cambridge, Ma. and happened to browse through that book. Just reading a few questions and answers wasone of the greatest shocks in my life. Reading the truth when you alwaysthought that you are so strange, noone else can image, is not easy. I washardly able to go to the cashier and pay for the book. This was the firstday of a new life for me.Read more

Subjects:  1. Adult children of alcoholics    2. Alcoholics    3. Alcoholism    4. Family relationships    5. General    6. Miscellanea    7. Recovery    8. Self-Help    9. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    10. Treatment    11. United States    12. Coping with drug & alcohol abuse    13. Psychology & Psychiatry / General   

Reviews (12)

A Must-Have for Every Partner of a Survivor
This book has everything you need to know, and it's told in a style that feels like you're sitting in your living room with a good buddy who just happens to have gone through the same thing. This is an OUTSTANDING RESOURCE! Every partner of a survivor needs this book. I think it's far superior to Allies in Healing.
Good book about this topic.
This is a pretty good book, well written and easy to understand.Basically it's support guide for men who are in a relationship with a partner who is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse.
What About Me by Grant Cameron
I have worked with Survivors of sexual abuse and their families, in a professional capacity, for over 12 years and I have found this book to be a valuable resource for partners.Oftentimes, men have commented to me that they "could have written the book themselves" and they often feel empowered after they read it because they get the sense they are not alone with their experiences and feelings.The book also helps the partner to gain a better understanding of what his partner is going through and to heal rifts in their relationships.I strongly reccommend this book to other professionals who work in this field and to survivors of sexual abuse and their partners. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Abuse - General    2. Abuse - Sexual    3. Body, Mind & Spirit / Mental & Spiritual Healing    4. Family/Marriage    5. Self-Help    6. Self-Help / Recovery    7. Child abuse    8. Coping with personal problems   

Reviews (2)

Quick 101 education
This book has the basis information a person needs to quit their addiction.Is the same basic principles that rehabilitation programs used.Except that in the rehab you have a team a people that help you and the AA/NA meetings are all day.

Turning away from alcohol and/or drugs
The workbook allows one to view his/her compulsion to drink and/or use drugs from multiple perspectives, to better realize the consequences and to make a reasoned choice about whether or not to embrace sobriety. It then gently guides one into early recovery, giving tips and support for making important changes in life so as not to return to alcohol and/or drugs. Fanning writes in short, clear sentences so that the book is very easy to understand, and shows great compassion for those who are burdened by the terrible compulsion that is addiction.
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Subjects:  1. Alcoholics    2. Alcoholism    3. Drug addicts    4. Handbooks, manuals, etc    5. Recovery    6. Rehabilitation    7. Self-Help    8. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    9. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    10. Treatment    11. Coping with drug & alcohol abuse   

Reviews (22)

Absolutely Recommended
This book is a great resource for clinicians, survivors, and anyone who knows a survivor.

Still classic and gay affirmative
This book is one of the first books I read which includes examples of gay men sexually abused as children without including homosexuality as the result of sexual abuse. If you are a gay man and are looking for an affirmative book on sexual abuse which does not pathologize your gay identity, look no further. Lew has written it and you have found it!
The best book for Survivors.
My copy of Mike Lew's book is well worn, most pages have sections underlined and notes written down the margins.
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Subjects:  1. Abuse - General    2. Abuse - Sexual    3. Adult Child Sexual Abuse Victims    4. Adult child sexual abuse victi    5. Incest victims    6. Male sexual abuse victims    7. Mental Health    8. Psychology    9. Recovery    10. Self-Help    11. Sexually abused boys    12. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    13. Family & Relationships / Abuse   

Reviews (3)

Great Book for Co-Dependents
I've read all of Pia's books.They are all great, especially the first one (Facing CoDependence) and this one.The first book explains the symptums and the mechanics of how and why.This book drills into details of the key concepts from the first book.It touches the how and why briefly, but focuses on the real life examples of dysfunctional behaviors and contrasting it to functional behaviors.This book really manifests the concepts in the first book into practices and guidelines. Really helpful book!
This book explains how we develop insecurities and feelings of inferiority that makes us develop codependent relationships.The author uses many examples from her own experiences as well as those of many other people to vividly illustrate the connections between our past life experiences, our present insecurities and inferiorities, and how we feel and behave in our present relationships. It is an excellent book that allows us to open our eyes and see inside ourselves! I would recommend it to anyone who feels like their life (not just their relationships) can be happier than what it is now. Another more comprehensive book that allows us to apply these messages to a wider variety of things is "The Ever-Transcending Spirit" by Toru Sato. It is absolutely one of the best in the business! Sato's book makes it so easy to understand our development, our personality, and our relationships. I would highly recommend both of these books!

Good boundary work; quit it with the AA stuff!
Pia Mellody notes in the beginning of THE INTIMACY FACTOR that her deepest reason for writing the book was "to acknowledge the role of spirituality in intimate relationships."This is in itself is a worthy goal; spirituality (general, not within a specfic religious framework) as specifically applied to relationships is not addressed often enough, and it's a frequently forgotten part of too many partnerships.Mellody writes that true sprituality is the realization that God is Love and we can trust in that Love.That love is what restores to us the truth of our own inherent worth, thereby enabling us to have truly intimate relationships with other human beings.Read more

Subjects:  1. Family & Relationships    2. Family/Marriage    3. Interpersonal Relations    4. Intimacy    5. Psychology    6. Family & Relationships / Interpersonal Relations    7. Marriage & relationships   

Reviews (1)

The tragic story of a rock star's fall from grace
Alice In Chains was one of the premier hard rock alternative bands of the last three decades. But lead singer Layne Staley couldn't handle many of the pressures that were associated with being a huge star on display to the world. He died an early and tragic death of an accidental overdose of heroin and crak in 2002.
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Subjects:  1. Recovery    2. Self-Help    3. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General   

Reviews (7)

If you want to stay in denial, don't read this book.
This is a straight-forward, no BS, book about addiction and you don't have to be a doctor to understand it.What it covers includes:addiction & the addictive personality defined, in detail; how folks tend to become addicted; things they tend to try to do about it that don't work; thoughts/beliefs etc to watch out for that undermine recovery (and realistic ways to deal with them); things that DO work to help a person out of addictive thinking/behavior; and what the person in recovery can look forward to as a result of their efforts.It's good not only for those addicted but for those dealing with an addicted loved one.
Great book; negative review below misses the mark
I rarely write reviews of books I've read but had to chime in with the previous reviewer to say that this is a TERRIFIC book for anyone who finds himself/herself ashamed or frustrated by the inability to stop an addiction. It's more than I've gotten from 12-step meetings because it delves into the creation of an addiction from a neuropsychological point of view.That has really helped me recognize what's going on in my head, so I can appreciate the fact that from a physiological point of view, I REALLY AM ADDICTED to some things, and need the group process to fight the battle.

A deeper perspective on addiction
I disagree with the last reviewer.This book offers an unusual, and highly useful, perspective on the causes and treatments of addiction.Typically, the goal of most self-help books on the subject is abstinence from use.The present book considers abstinence only the first step in the life-long process of addiction recovery.The book focusses on addictive behaviors and personality traits, how they originate, why they lead to addiction. It gave me terrific insight into why I can quit smoking, but tend to relapse after a few months.Highly recommended to any thinking person interested in understanding and recovering from their addiciton. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Compulsive behavior    2. Psychological aspects    3. Psychopathology - Compulsive Behavior    4. Recovery    5. Self-Help    6. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    7. Substance abuse    8. Treatment    9. Coping with personal problems    10. Self-Help / General   

Reviews (4)

Excellent Introduction to Psychology of Mind and addiction treatment
Joseph Bailey did a wonderful service by writing this book which clearly and efficiently discusses how to apply POM to the understanding and treatment of addiction. Highly recommended to professionals and the self-help audience.--Fred P. Gallo, Ph.D., Author of Energy Tapping and Energy Psychology

Practical Book
This is a practical spiritual book no unlike 12 steps it works. I would also encourage people to read An Encounter With A Prophet for a powerful spiritual book that get's you closer to your higher power.

Finally, a concept that really works.
Bailey has presented easy to grasp ideas that really work for the person in recovery. I have used it on both a personal and professional level and would encourage others to do the same. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alcoholics    2. General    3. Mental Health And Hygiene    4. Peace of mind    5. Recovery    6. Rehabilitation    7. Self-Help    8. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    9. Complementary Medicine    10. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    11. Popular psychology    12. Self-Help & Practical Interests    13. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Editorial Review

The violent forms of child abuse that make headlines are not the only ones that leave lifelong scars. A child who grows up in an unstable environment where empathy, clear boundaries and trust are lacking, can end up living a ravaged adulthood. Children can be crippled by mixed messages, family secrets and reversed parent-child roles. Many victims of these practices are not even sure their childhood was abusive. This balanced, practical guide delineates traits of abusive families. Narrative vignettes in each section illustrate and personalize critical issues. Most valuable is the step-by-step self-help program that includes exercises and journal work for recovery. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

book review
The book was informative and helpful. It gave me some real insight into helping my patients. I have also recommended the book to some of my patients.

Good Resource to Understand How You End up with Your Issues
I remember reading this book over and over again at one point of life, but in retrospect, this book traumatized me in a realization of the issues I was dealing with at the time. I would call this type of book "pathology book" in stead of calling it "recovery book." It helps to understand why certain issues arise, but in life, what you do about it is more important than understanding it. This book left me so sad without a lead to a hope of living. The solution suggested in this book was not effective to me. It would have been better if a book had pathology part and EFFECTIVE treatment part.
A much needed prescription for victims
Thank you, Mr. Farmer, for recognizing that the hurt doesn't stop once the abuse does; for me, coping with it as an adult was more difficult than as a child because I now realize with an adult's intelligence and insight, exactly what was being done to me and how horrible it was. So much abuse is undetected until the child grows up and realizes that no, this isn't normal (I didn't realize all families weren't like this) and it WAS wrong. Too many well-meaning people minimize the adult survivor's pain or dismiss it as meaningless: "that was years ago and it's over" "get over it and move on" or the worst, "Just don't dwell on it anymore." If you haven't been abused, you don't get it and never will. thank you, Mr. Farmer, for not only understanding, but for showing us a way out. The focus on child abuse is on children, not the survivors, and we need help too. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Adult child abuse victims    2. Child abuse    3. General    4. Men's Health    5. Mental Illness    6. Mental health    7. Psychotherapy    8. Recovery    9. Self-Help    10. Health & Fitness / Men's Health   

Reviews (1)

A new paradigm for families
Debra Jay has been on Oprah more than a few times. She's the blond lady with the glasses who is always so direct with addicts and their families. Her new book is a revelation. Basically, her idea is that there should be zero tolerance for untreated addiction in the family. After all, why should the alcoholic have the right to "hit bottom" in their own sweet time, when the family is suffering?
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Subjects:  1. Alcohol Abuse    2. Alcoholism    3. Drug Abuse    4. Drug addiction    5. General    6. Psychopathology - Addiction    7. Religion    8. Religious aspects    9. Self-Help    10. Spiritual    11. Spirituality - General    12. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    13. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Drug Dependence    14. Substance abuse    15. Treatment    16. Self-Help / Recovery   

Subjects:  1. Government policy    2. Medical / Nursing    3. Prevention    4. Public Health    5. Recovery    6. Self-Help    7. Smoking    8. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    9. Tobacco use    10. United States    11. Medical / Public Health    12. Personal & public health   

Reviews (5)

Could Use a Proofreader
It is necessary to note that this book is required for CADC licensure in some certification programs.As such, it is so poorly written and organized, I am finding it difficult to get through it. I am disappointed to have paid significant money for what is assumably quality research and information about substance use and abuse, presented in a manner that is careless and disorganized.There are innumerable grammatical errors and the author lacks focus and consistancy within paragraphs.It is inexcusable to read a "textbook," where basic sentence structure and writing is neglected.While the information contained is assumably valid and of great value, its presentation is lacking at best.I hope that future additions are more cost effective and adhere to a higher standard of professional educational writing.

Poorly written
This is a surprisingly poorly written textbook.One can tell that more and more information has simply been cut and pasted into this book over the years. The continuity and organization of the book suffers.The authors (or a new author) should consider writing a new text from scratch --- one that encompasses the entire field of substance abuse counseling more comprehensively.

loosening the grip
Overall, this is a good book in learning the concepts of alcoholism ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Recovery    2. Self-Help    3. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    4. Alcoholism    5. Coping with drug & alcohol abuse    6. Self-Help / Alcoholism   

Reviews (49)

It saved my best friend! A must have!
I could sense for a long time that my best friend was going through some serious personal problem but he didn't want to tell me about it. A few weeks ago he came to me and confessed that he is addicted to sex, his life was getting out of control and he badly needs help and support. As a recently married I too was quite prone to be more sexually active so I decided that it is a very good idea to have this book just in case. I gave it to him as well as the bestseller "scientifically guaranteed male multiple orgasms and ultimate sex".As he shared with me Dr. Carnes proved him black on white this is a kind of diseases which can be cured. Then scientist Ritz showed him how to gradually eliminate each of the health problems caused by chronic overejaculating. My best friend was getting better with every day and I am so thankful to these 2 great authors for covering A-Z the psychological and physiological aspects and treatment of this serious problem. That's why I urge you to get both books because they compliment each other perfectly. They WILL help you to understand and eliminate your addiction and have normal and incredible sexual life after that!

Great service, fast shipment!
Happy to recommend - shipped very quickly, book in excellent condition!

Well written
Sexual addiction is almost impossible to understand or comprehend by the non-sexually addictive person. This book is written in a way that is easy to read and very easily understood, by both the addict and the non-addict. It puts into perspective what, why and how the sex addict functions. It takes the burden of guilt and frustration "off" his/her partner and re-inforces that addiction is a disease, and in many ways not a choice. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Recovery    2. Self-Help    3. Sex addiction    4. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Sexual    5. Sex & sexuality   

Reviews (5)

Great Recovery Companion
This book inspires and encourages continued recovery.Highly recommended for those directly and indirectly involved with recovery.

Thoroughly enjoyed it!
Dear K, I love the book and I'm so glad you were published in it because otherwise I might not have read it. After 18 years of sobriety, I'm still inspired by an individual's story ofaddiction, the necessary desperation that leads to the first step, and their journey to recovery. Although it's the kind of book I might reread, when I'm finished I'll probably pass it on to someone that I think needs to read it and hope it keeps getting passed along until it's worn out. This book won't go out of style. PAP

Very encouraging book
I think you can't go wrong with this book.The stories are encouraging and uplifting which is what someone in recovery needs, in my opinion.I've even highlighted pages so that I can go back and re-read what really spoke to me.I'd recommend buying this book in heartbeat. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Biography    2. Compulsive behavior    3. Inspirational    4. Inspirational - General    5. Motivational & Inspirational    6. Recovering addicts    7. Recovering alcoholics    8. Recovery    9. Recovery movement    10. Self-Help    11. Spiritual Healing    12. Substance Abuse    13. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    14. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Drug Dependence    15. Self-Help / Alcoholism   

Editorial Review

"Quit drinking on your own terms," urges Jerry Dorsman, addictions counselor and an alcoholic in recovery for over 16 years. Those terms, carefully outlined in Read more

Reviews (25)

quit for good
I read this book and more like it after trying aa three times in one year. Finally heard ( from an Amazon review ) about Schick Shadel Hospital in Seattle. 10 days will stop all cravings. Just got back from treatment in oct 06. Came back a non drinker. This program saved my life. This book was helpful for post treatment ideas but not a lifesaver like Schick Shadel.

How to Quit Drinking without AA
This author is thorough and positive.He describes many factors which can be helpful in recovery.Many people with alcohol abuse difficulties do not want to attend AA for one reason or another.Mr. Dorsman is able to describe an alternative process,and maintain a positive outlook.It is refreshing.I will admit, however, that a few of his descriptives were a bit far fetched.Generally a good alternative book about alcohol abuse and recovery.

Interactive
This was a good workbook.It was like being with your own personal pyschologist helping you figure out why you drink and what different methods there are out there to stop.I liked it so much I got one for someone else too. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alcoholics    2. Recovery    3. Rehabilitation    4. Self-Help    5. Self-help techniques    6. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    7. Self-Help / General