Alternative Essential text COUN 671 all year, 2026
John McLeod’s accessible bestseller provides a comprehensive, research-informed overview of the theory and practice of counselling and psychotherapy. Now in its seventh edition, this leading introduction to the discipline has been expanded to include a renewed focus on social justice, the use of technology in therapy, non-Western traditions, socio-political and decolonising perspectives, and working with clients who are considering taking their own lives.
The book retains its comprehensive coverage of both mainstream and emerging approaches to therapy, and professional issues such as supervision, training, therapist development, ethical standards, and research-informed practice. New to this edition is wider coverage of issues such as racism, the climate crisis, gender, and sexuality; debates around neuroscience, spirituality and integrative approaches to therapy; and third-wave transdiagnostic cognitive behavioural therapies such as ACT, mindfulness, and FAP.
Fully revised and updated throughout, the seventh edition also contains:
Access to complementary online resources
Case studies
Landmark and contemporary research studies
Critical analysis of the cultural, historical, and social context of therapeutic approaches
Reflection and discussion topics
Suggestions for further reading
This book equips readers with the confidence to navigate and apply a range of therapeutic models. Building on the author’s significant research and professional experience, the 7th edition of An Introduction to Counselling and Psychotherapy remains the definitive guide for students and practitioners.
John McLeod has extensive experience as a counsellor, psychotherapist, supervisor, educator and researcher. He is currently Professor of Counselling at the Institute for Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy in Dublin, Ireland, and has held similar roles at universities in England, Scotland, Italy, New Zealand, and Norway. His publications include the following books with Open University Press: Counselling Skills: Theory, Research and Practice, Embedded Counselling in the Helping Professions: A Practical Guide and Personal and Professional Development for Counsellors, Psychotherapists and Mental Health Practitioners.
ISBN: 9780335252312
Publication date: 21/03/2025
Edition: 7
Price: $127.79
RRP: $141.99
Format: Paperback
Available stock: 1
Publishing status: Active
Author: McLeod, John
Imprint: Open University Press










