The late Carl Rogers, founder of the humanistic psychology movement, revolutionized psychotherapy with his concept of "client-centered therapy." His influence has spanned decades, but that influence has become so much a part of mainstream psychology that the ingenious nature of his work has almost been forgotten. A new introduction by Peter Kramer sheds light on the significance of Dr. Rogers's work today. New discoveries in the field of psychopharmacology, especially that of the antidepressant Prozac, have spawned a quick-fix drug revolution that has obscured the psychotherapeutic relationship. As the pendulum slowly swings back toward an appreciation of the therapeutic encounter, Dr. Rogers's "client-centered therapy" becomes particularly timely and important.

This volume stands as a splendid introduction to the life and work of a pioneering psychotherapist. Selections ranging from 1942 to 1987 provide a personal look at his early influences and marriage, and reveal his approach to psychotherapy, individual case studies, research, and even crosscultural efforts to improve communication with professionalsin the Soviet Union. We see the beginning of "client-centered" therapy and can trace Rogers's commitment to its ideas through a lifetime.