"In O'Neill's book - at once a case-history, a novella, and something more than either - we have a remarkable story of what two people can do for each other if they can experiment with trust." Adam PhillipsWhen therapist-in-training James O'Neill starts his placement at a therapy centre in west London, his first referral is Abraham, a silent and frightened young man in a tightly-zipped, hooded anorak.For the majority of their initial sessions, Abraham hardly speaks. But O'Neill gradually gains his trust and learns of the abuse and violence Abraham was subjected to as a child that caused him to hide away from the world - barely sleeping, too afraid to get undressed even in the shower.Over the many years they meet, Abraham's unfolding story and bravery inspire O'Neill to confront his own complicated past. Together they achieve something radical, as Abraham creates his own kind of therapy and teaches O'Neill to do the same.

About the Author
James O'Neill is a psychotherapist with an independent practice in south London. Born in Toronto, he moved to London in 1977 where he taught history before starting therapy training. He is a member of the Site for Contemporary Psychoanalysis. This is his first book.

Reviews
A brave and moving book which demystifies what it is to be a good and generous therapist. --
I read this extraordinary short story of a psychotherapist and his patient in a single sitting... A powerful testament, not only to therapy, but of the healing that trust, empathy and love can engender in all of us.
Vegan cook Kate Ford shares her quick, easy recipes - with no odd ingredients * The Times *



Book Information
ISBN 9781780723945
Author James O'Neill
Format Hardback
Page Count 160
Imprint Short Books Ltd
Publisher Short Books Ltd
Weight(grams) 249g
Dimensions(mm) 200mm * 132mm * 20mm