This is a revised edition of the classical text on systemic thought. A total of 10 of the 22 chapters were completely rewritten, and the other 12 were revised. This is a textbook par excellence: a detailed look at basic theory, with many practical examples taken from the everyday experiences of the readers in their own contexts of psychotherapy, counseling, social work, coaching and organizational development.Since its initial publication in 1996, this volume has not experienced a radical change in paradigms, albeit a great number of innovations have occurred in methodology and the relevant settings. Systemic therapy and counseling has now been integrated into many new fields, has developed a number of responses to new problems and has become concerned with interacting with basic research in therapy and counseling approaches. Also, it has managed to sideskirt the usual internal debates. The authors present a broadly based and well-integrated picture of systemic therapy and counseling. They have also expanded the role of new innovations and methods derived from the English-language literature. This book is required reading for both students and practitioners in healthcare, social work, education and pastoral care as well as for persons who work in or with management and business consultation.

Prof. Dr. phil. Arist von Schlippe, Diplom-Psychologe, ist Inhaber des Lehrstuhls »Führung und Dynamik von Familienunternehmen« am Wittener Institut für Familienunternehmen (WIFU) an der Universität Witten/Herdecke und Lehrtherapeut für systemische Therapie, Coach und Supervisor (SG).