Matters Of Interpretation

Matters of Interpretation presents an integrative, self-reflective approach to clinical and counseling psychology and psychosocial inquiry that is based on hermeneutics-the art and science of interpretation. This effective approach-particularly relevant to working with children and adolescents at risk for negative life outcomes-allows for the integration of both the client's and the therapist's values in the therapeutic relationship. The goal is a mutually transformative experience that results in increased self-understanding and a deeper therapeutic relationship.

An effective new therapeutic model that integrates the client's and therapist's values

This groundbreaking book offers therapists and counselors an effective new therapeutic model based on hermeneutics—the art and science of interpretation. It recognizes that the clinician is not a neutral observer in the therapeutic process but brings to the interaction his or her own values, judgments, and prejudices.

Grounded in theory yet deeply inspirational, the book is filled with rich personal reflections from real-world clinicians who have used this model and found the process to be deeply transformative. This new approach not only deepens the therapeutic relationship but has proven to be especially effective with young clients at risk for negative outcomes.

MICHAEL J. NAKKULA is an assistant professor in the Department of Human Development and Psychology at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where he has helped to create the program in Risk and Prevention. He is also cofounder and director of Project IF: Inventing the Future, a school-based preventive collaborative involving Harvard University, Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Boston Public Schools. SHARON M. RAVITCH is a doctoral student in the Education, Culture and Society Program, an interdisciplinary program in anthropology, sociology, and education, at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education. She is a research fellow at the Cantor-Fitzgerald Center for Research on Diversity in Education at the University's Center for Urban Ethnography.