This book is part of the Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice series written specifically to support students on Counselling and Psychotherapy courses. These books are practical in focus, concentrate on linking theory to everyday practice, and include practical activities to aid learning. Written specifically for students beginning their counselling and psychotherapy courses, What is Counselling & Psychotherapy? is an indispensable overview of the profession -from its origins in nineteenth century psychiatry to the current changes in professional practice. This book traces the ways in which competing biological and psychological explanations of personality development, (including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural, and humanistic theories), led to therapy's 'Age of Confusion' in which a multiplicity of counselling and psychotherapy models competed for adherents and users. The Author then examines the trend towards Integrative Models of Counselling and Psychotherapy and how modern therapists work within the commercial, educational, and health service sectors, giving the student a real insight into the skills and knowledge that is required by today's therapist. Concluding chapters bring together some of the likely imminent developments and advancements in the accreditation and education of counsellors and psychotherapists; developments that have put therapy onto the road to statutory regulation. Book jacket.