The author cuts through the myths and misunderstandings surrounding today's therapy and explores the pros and cons of both psychoanalysis and the many other, often recently introduced therapies. Although a psychoanalysist himself, Dr Kovel is not a proselytizer for professional treatment. He suggests that a distinction must be made between neurosis and unhappiness and proposes that many psychological problems might be radically altered if there were fundamental changes in society. The author examines the historical origins and discusses the merits of group, family and individual therapy and looks at, among other things, Freudian psychoanalysis, the existential approach, Reich and bioenergetics, Gestalt and Rogerian therapy and behavioural-directive therapies. Above all, this book gives guidance to anyone considering treatment. At the same time it also provides a perspective on the social and political role of therapy in contemporary society.