Psychotherapists just starting out in the field often have more questions than answers: “Am I really cut out for this job?” “Where do I want my career to be heading?” “How do I deal with my reactions to clients, or theirs to me?” In this empathic book, seasoned therapist and supervisor Robert Taibbi speaks directly to new clinicians about the world of work and the workplace, the arc of careers, and the keys to staying creative and energized. The book can be read sequentially or readers can dip into any of the 59 concise chapters on such topics as honing clinical skills, first aid when sessions go off the rails, supervision problems, transitioning into private practice, and how to be wise. Insightful reflection questions are woven throughout.

See also other essential resources for new clinicians—Becoming a Therapist, Second Edition, by Suzanne Bender and Edward Messner, which covers what to say and why, starting from the very first session, and The Mental Health Clinician's Workbook, by James Morrison, which takes a learn-by-doing approach to building diagnostic skills.