*This reader compiles essential articles from the journal Counselling to explore the multifaceted field of therapeutic practice.* Stephen Palmer, drawing from the British Association for Counselling's key publications, presents a collection that bridges academic research with practical and personal insights. The book is structured to cover core therapeutic approaches, diverse practice contexts, and critical social, professional, and ethical considerations within the field. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the theories and practices that shape modern counselling.

This reader is positioned as essential for students, trainees, and practitioners in counselling and allied professions. The collection's strength lies in its synthesis of accessible research with professional and personal reflections, offering direct access to foundational theories and contemporary issues. Its structure, including discussion points at the end of each article, is designed to foster debate and critical reflection on the current state and future direction of the counselling profession. The book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the evolving landscape of counselling.