Logotherapy Revisited offers a comprehensive yet brief summary of the principles, philosophy, and techniques of logotherapy. Indeed, I consider it a Desk Reference for Logotherapy.
One of the complaints about logotherapy is that the texts about the philosophical underpinnings are often dense and thus difficult for introductory students to grasp. Logotherapy Revisited offers a great deal of understanding to those new to logotherapy, but it also provides a very useful review for seasoned logotherapists. The writing is clear and easy to understand
The first part of the book is an elaboration of Mendez’ 2004 book – A Life with Meaning: Guide to the Fundamental Principles of Viktor E. Frankl’s Logotherapy. The content of the first part of the book is very similar to A Life with Meaning. However, Logotherapy Revisited adds a considerable appendix (4 chapters). The appendix is considered a study guide and is a summary of the earlier concepts in the book. Logotherapy Revisited also offers reflective questions for each major unit of study. The added appendix and reflective questions make the book even more useful as a textbook, a training manual, or a review text for those seeking deeper understanding of logotherapy.
The first four chapters of the book review Frankl’s life and key philosophical concepts of logotherapy and logophilosophy. Chapters 5 and 6 describe basic processes of logotherapy, and chapters 7 through 9 detail a number of logotherapeutic techniques. Chapters 10 through 13 are the appendix and summarize other parts of the book. Chapter 14 offers an approach to teaching logotherapy called Attentive Meaning Sensitivity®. While most of the book is a good summary of logotherapy concepts, chapter 14 introduces the new concept to logotherapy of Attentive Meaning Sensitivity.
Logotherapy Revisited provides a handy summary of major techniques in logotherapy, as well as a brief treatment of specific techniques, such as: the mountain range exercise, the logoanchor technique, and the appealing technique. The specific techniques are catalogued and explained briefly yet fully enough to equip logotherapists to use the technique.
The chapter on Narrative Logotherapy is a summarization of some of Elizabeth Lucas’ contributions to logotherapy and offers relevant cases and perspectives on therapy that are easy to understand and apply, but not referenced in many other logotherapy books. Specifically the section on the Socratic Dialogue is well developed and gives adequate case examples of the use of the technique in various clinical situations. Yet, the section is brief, so as to be a thorough introduction, without being wordy.
Another benefit of this text is that it is available in electronic formats. I read my copy on an I-pad using the Amazon Kindle application. The electronic text is easy to navigate, and I can take it with me wherever I have my I-pad. As a comprehensive yet brief textbook Logotherapy Revisited is a valuable addition to the logotherapy literature. I recommend Logotherapy Revisited especially to new students looking for a brief guide and to experienced logotherapists who want a concise review.
Michael Winters is a Psychologist in Houston focusing on marriage counseling and therapy. Michael received his PhD from the University of Memphis and has been practicing since 1991.