This practical handbook identifies the major problems which confront therapists working with couples and families and suggests solutions to the difficulties which thwart them in providing effective help. Such problems include difficulties in engaging clients and in maintaining the therapeutic alliance; the questioning of the therapists's competence; the failure to complete an agreed task; dealing with secrets and violence; and deciding when and how young children should be involved. Throughout, the authors warn against the dangers of perceiving clients as "resistant" or "unmotivated". The therapist's task is rather to identify and analyze difficulties and to cooperate with the clients in developing solutions to the problems posed. The book brings together theory, research and practice. The authors draw on their own experience of marital and family therapy and consultation in different settings, and the text contains case examples. There is a bibliography and each chapter is followed by suggestions for further reading. The text is aimed at therapists (psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, social workers) who use the techniques of family therapy, students of family therapy, marriage guidance counsellors and is not confined to practice in the UK.