by Robert Sardello (Introduction by), Randolph Severson (Author)
Finally, at last, a therapeutic psychology that sees, honors, extolls, concentrates on the very best, the very highest qualities available to the human being. What counseling should be about -- developing strategies with patients to inwardly find the ever-present virtues, ideals, deep human longings, and bring them into the world in concrete and practical ways. Soul as action Drawing on the work of James Hillman and Alfred Adler -- but equally on the great thinkers of the Catholic tradition, such as Hilaire Belloc, George Bernanos, Frederick Willhelmsen and Jean Leclereq -- Randolph Severson develops a view of the highest in humanity. An archetypal psychology of what we can become: the human soul as act of Honor, and the archetypal patterns within which such qualities can be found -- exemplified by the Roman tradition of "Humanitas" -- ancient, and ever new. You will find in this book what you have always hoped psychology would address -- responsibleness with soul, stewardship, sacrifice, reverence, service, a sacramental view of reality, the deepest sense of family, nobility, mystery, dignity -- the martial qualities needed to live these ideals as realities, and the strategies to achieve them. A most remarkable writing, written in the deep Catholic tradition of rhetorical flourish, filled with stories of compassion and the action of love. There has never been a psychology like this
Author Biography
Randolph Severson, Ph.D. is a counselor whose many writings are known for their 'soul, ' their expressive blend of rich imagery, erudition, and compassionate humanity. An early student and assistant to James Hillman, he trained in the structural strategic therapies of Minuchin and Haley. Severson is a recipient of the Baran-Pannor Award for Excellence in Adoption, and the Congressional Angel of Adoption. He has practiced for thirty years in Dallas