Book Description

Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy provides a comprehensive overview of the many ways in which animals can be used to assist therapists. Coverage includes how animals can assist specific patient populations (children, the disabled, AIDS patients, etc.), how animals can aid in specific settings (hospitals, prisons, independent practice, etc.), and how professionals can best select appropriate animals (species, breed, and individual temperament) and design an AAT program.
Humans have long had a special bond with animals, initially as work animals, then as pets, and now more frequently as therapeutic companions. Animals help the sick recover more quickly and help the aged live longer and more satisfying lives. Specially trained animals are now helping stroke victims, the handicapped, and others to regain or build lost faculties. Increasingly, animals assist in nonphysical/medical therapies, helping the stressed and angry relax and the shy be more forthcoming.
Contributors represent the top people in the field from hospital settings, vet hospitals, animal training centers, and therapists in practice. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Credible, clinical but enjoyable-A Keeper
This tome features a number of various case study articles on different subjects pertaing to not only animal-assisted therapy, but also to service animals (there is a significant difference). One area (service animals)is for disabled individuals who have an animal-usually a dog-to assist them. The other area is for those interested in Biophilia, how clients benefit from exposure to animals from a therapeutic stance, where handlers bring their animals into long-term facilities, and the like.
I enjoyed this book so much I loaned my copy to a psychiatrist at a neighboring mental health clinc that I know who was conducting a group. She wanted to talk to them about the benefits of service animals for those with mental and emotional disorders, but didn't have the background on the subject. This book was indispensible for her. I plan to add more volumes like it to my library.

Worth the Money
This book contains bonafide information to help AAT professionals in everything from forming a practice, zoonotic disease charts, guidelines for AAT in a variety of settings (hospitals, schools etc.), and with a variety of clients to Nature therapy and animal abuse issues.

Additionally, it offers information on assessment tools that can be applied to research in this area. It explains different statistical methods and how to use them.

This book is a 'must have' reference. It is encouraging to see good literature emerging in this field. As a practitioner in this area, I am encouraged by works like this.

Extremely informative
The Hanbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy is a useful resource on the topic of anthrozoology and animal-assisted therapy. The sections of the book are written by many of the most prominant researchers in the field. The book is interesting, as well as informative.

A Must Have Book
The Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy edited by Aubrey Fine is a must have book for anyone really serious about Animal-Assisted Therapy and its incorportaion into your profession. It is well written with articles by the "who's who" professionals currently in the field of AAT. I have been waiting a long time for this book and I'm glad it's finally here! It's worth every penny you pay for it. ... Read more

Book Description

The best clinically-focused, mid-sized reference covering the evaluation, management, and treatment of common orthopedic conditions.Emphasizes the impact of changes in imaging technology on the optimal approach to diagnosis and treatment.Includes a concise review of the basic science underlying current orthopedic surgery practice. Features more than 500 illustrations, an easy-access format, and a valuable chapter on orthopedic surgery in children. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

it makes you feel up-date in the vast field of orthopaedics
This book makes you feel so comfortable in the "up-date" orthopaedics literature, with no need to buy an expensive text-book, this manuable book gives us a chance to review very well any topic in this very vast field of orthopaedics. I think that in some moment the author is going to need a yearly edition of this practical work.This book seems to be the "musculoskeletal current" option...some changes are predictable, but they will come in next years, thak you Dr. Skinner, its a good job, junior and senior surgeons will apreciate your effort to give us this good and easy to use information data bank.

It's not as good as I thought...from 1st edition...
I have readed 1st edition and this 2d edition, and I think this have not the order and hierarchy a review must have. I think there is a long way for Dr Skinner to revitalize this book for a 3rd edition as soon as possible. Maybe there are two books to see the Format : Apley's system and Ortho ' review.

all most a needed book for the junior orthopedics surgeon
This book must be in every orthopedics resident librery, it has the fast way to find out a review of an specific topic in the wide field of the orthopedics. This book must be edited as often as possible to make it a "current", even the senior surgeons need it for a fast consultation in every day practice. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Vestibular Rehabiltation
Concise, good example/case studies. Thorough review of vestibular system. A great read prior to any vestibular course. ... Read more

Book Description

Although the healing qualities of nature have been recognized and relied on for centuries as a valuable part of convalescence, recent history has seen nature's therapeutic role virtually eclipsed by the technological dominance of modern medicine. As the twentieth century comes to a close and the medical community reacknowledges the importance of the environment to recovery, the healing garden is emerging as a supplement to drug- or technology-based treatments.

Healing Gardens celebrates this renewed interest in nature as a catalyst for healing and renewal by examining the different therapeutic benefits of healing gardens and offering essential design guidance from experts in the field.

Unique and comprehensive, Healing Gardens provides up-to-date coverage of research findings, relevant design principles and approaches, and best practice examples of different types of healing gardens. It begins by exploring what current research reveals about the connection between nature, human stress reduction, and medical outcomes. It then presents case studies and design guidelines for outdoor spaces in medical settings that include general, psychiatric, and children's hospitals as well as hospices, nursing homes, and Alzheimer's facilities. Historical information, literature reviews, and studies on use are included for each type of outdoor space covered, offering important insights into what works in healing gardens-and what doesn't.

Generously supplemented with photographs, site plans, anecdotes, and more, Healing Gardens is an invaluable practical guide for landscape architects and others involved in creating and maintaining medical facilities, and an extremely useful reference for those responsible for patient care.

A unique and comprehensive look at the therapeutic effects and design of healing gardens For more and more people, the shortest road to recovery is the one that leads through a healing garden. Combining up-to-date information on the therapeutic benefits of healing gardens with practical design guidance from leading experts in the field, Healing Gardens is an important resource for landscape architects and others working in this emerging area. With the help of site plans, photographs, and more, it presents design guidelines and case studies for outdoor spaces in a range of medical settings, including:
* Acute care general hospitals.
* Psychiatric hospitals.
* Children's hospitals.
* Nursing homes.
* Alzheimer's facilities.
* Hospices. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Essential Resource for the Healing Garden Designer
Beautiful organization, research examples to support common-sense recommendations, case studies with pictures, this superb book is the first stop for the healing garden designer. The case studies and design recommendations are grouped by health care setting, which makes the reading more focused. By far the best professional text on the topic.

Aplicaciones para la salud
Creo que es un buen punto de partida para comenzar a incluir en el diseño del entorno y el paisaje pautas que incluyan un beneficio directo en la salud de quienes lo contemplan. ... Read more

Book Description

This book is written for those preparing for the field of therapeutic recreation and for professionals providing services to clients. The approach focuses on the design, development, and evaluation of therapeutic recreation services. Therapeutic recreation is concerned with direct delivery of services to clients with disabilities, illnesses, or special needs. This book addresses both areas (process and content) utilizing a comprehensive and integrated approach. This is the only truly comprehensive book in the field; it is considered the bible of therapeutic recreation. This exciting edition represents a total revision that new and past users alike will welcome and appreciate. For new or experienced theraputic recreation professionals. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

finally, a readable and up-to-date book for professionals
As a recent counseling graduate (PhD), I was always put off by the art therapy books on the market. They were all so poorly written and talked about antiquated theories of counseling and therapy. Now, finally there is a wonderfully readable text and I am glad to have found it as I begin work with clients. This book is for anyone who is interested in using art in their work with adults, children, adolescents, and groups-- there are helpful chapters on trauma, medical issues, autism, ADHD, etc. There are also sections on art therapy assessments that are very well written and concise.

This is the state-of-the-art art therapy book for your counseling, psychology, or art therapy library. Also, if you are a beginner, see Malchiodi's Art Therapy Sourcebook, another readable volume. ... Read more

Book Description

Occupational Therapy for Children, Mosby's top selling Occupational Therapy book and a market leader, has been fully updated for the 4th Edition with many new features. It maintains its focus on children at many ages and stages in development, comprehensively addressing both treatment techniques and diagnoses in all settings. The 4th Edition builds on the existing strengths of the text, with improvements in the individual organization of each chapter, a greater overall consistency, updated photos and illustrations, the addition of a second color to clarify and improve the visual interest of the book, more case studies, and expanded and revised information on many topics. Occupational Therapy for Children continues in itsreputation as a dependable and outstanding source for occupational therapy undergraduate students, graduate level students, and practitioners. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The book title says it all: "OT for Children"
This resource provides an overview of many conditions found in pediatric treatment. The reviews of developmental progressions of all ADLs, pre-writing, fine motor, gross motor, cognitive, and other skills are presented both in concise, outline form and in paragraph form for more details. All chapters are well-organized, and focused on OT practice, while the section by Exner on the Development of Hand Skills is exceptional. This is a MUST HAVE resource for OT working in pediatrics.

essential reading
As a Paediatric Occupational Therapist I find this book a valuable resource in my department. ... Read more

Book Description

OT Study Cards in a Box has been completely revised and updated into a comprehensive second edition perfect for both OT & OTA students and clinicians.These convenient, easy-to-carry cards contains over 255 cards inside 13 sections that are designed to be used as: Review cards for OT/OTA students. Focus cards for fieldwork. Preparation cards for the NBCOT certification exam. Reference cards for clinicians.OT Study Cards in a Box, Second Edition offers a complete overview of important theory, assessment, and treatment topics, along with information on pediatrics, mental health, management, and research. Current healthcare terminology is also reflected with the latest information from Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain and Process.The user-friendly format includes tabs located on the side of the cards for easy navigation of the subject areas. Whether a student is preparing for the certification exam or a clinician simply needs a reminder, OT Study Cards in a Box, Second Edition provides the facts needed at a moments glance. *This is the latest edition of the OT & OTA Study Cards in a Box that will fulfill the needs of students and professionals in both areas. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great for studying for the exam
These cards were very helpful for studying for the exam. They were a great review for me. They also allowed me to see what my weakest areas were. The cards were convenient and very portable. I could easily take the box or just a few cards to work to study when I had time.The cards outlined key points and concepts. I would recommend using these cards as a supplement to other study materials that you are using, but don't rely on these cards alone. You will need to refer to other sources for more in depth knowledge.
As a practicing OT, I occasionally refer to these cards to refresh my mind on unfamiliar topics.

OT Review Cards in a Box
I felt these cards were convient and easy to follow. I am using them for review for my certification exam. I do believe that these cards would be helpfull to use in school. The thing I like most is you can carry this info in a box and its easier than using 2-3 books and notes from class ... Read more

Reviews (3)

This is a wonderful book
This book has been very informative. It has an abundance of information. As a new grad I refer to this book often and I have found it very helpful.

A "must" for OT students!
As a current OT student, this book is wonderful! The pictures and the understandable language is great!! This book helps with the understanding of the OT profession. I only hope that you get out of it what I have!!

The ultimate handbook for occupatonal therapists!
As an OT you are often in doubt of what to do for your cliet. This book helps you to gather your knowledge and focus it on the actual problem. Almost everything is there. A great book to get ideeas! But don't take it for a bible. Remember - You have to add yor own exprinces and, perhaps,a'lot of other sources to solve the problem. Never forget you and your knowledge is the most valuable resource for your client. ... Read more

Book Description

The Myofascial Release Manual is now available in a new, thoroughly updated, and refined third edition. This improved and expanded book places a greater emphasis on hand placements that is reinforced with over 350 photographs. Three renowned experts in their own field, Sam Keggereis, PT, ATC, Steven Nowicki, PhD, and Robert Ward, D.O, have all contributed to this third edition, offering their unique insight and clarity into the technique of Myofascial Release. This timely book has a user-friendly format that concentrates on the specific how-tos of the myofascial techniques, as well as offering an explanation of the theory and experience of the method of Myofascial Release. The book begins by presenting the basic learning steps of the techniques, then takes the reader into the advanced techniques and evaluations. Additional resources such as posture evaluation forms and references are included at the end of the book, to augment the value of this superior learning tool.The Myofascial Release Manual, Third Edition is an essential manual that includes answers to commonly asked questions and does an excellent job of illustrating hand placement for many of the muscles in the body. Carol J. Manheim, MS, MEd, PT, LPC, renowned in the area of Myofascial Release, has developed this new edition to be modeled after her own extensive background, teaching experiences, and lectures. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

I wish Ward Wrote More
The author brags that Ward, who termed the phrase "myofascial release" and helped popularized it among mainstream American Osteopaths, was one of the co-authors but he only contributes two paragraphs regarding myofascial release. The book describes different techniques for different problems but the reader should be warned: Myofascial release is both clinician and patient dependent, so the book should only be a guide of what you could possibly do. Furthermore, myofascial release involves three parts: compression, traction and twist. The author just describes stretching in her techniques. Because myofascial release is so patient and clinician dependent writing a book on this particular technique is very difficult. The author has not been able to meet the challenge.

a practical book
This book is useful to help you apply the manual techniques of trigger point release. However,you will have to buy other books to have a complete guide about the practice of myofascial release. This book can help you. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Really great!
This is a great book for tapping into that inner voice, taking some time to be quiet with ourselves and just plain have some artsy-craftsy fun. The book sarts with some intro chapters that provide short stories/examples of the healing power of art through the ages - from Buddah to present day folks. From there it talks about "being mindful" - here there's discussion of drawing things from your dreams, using your imagination, etc. I love the section that talks about the difference between "curing" (where you remove all evidence of the disease) and "healing" (a more spiritual transformation of repairing and connecting, gaining a peace.) Again, there are lots of stories andexamples within the text which makes it interesting reading. The next few chapters go into getting in touch with your soul's palette - rediscovering what you see as "art", remembering your own personal history as an artist,paying attention to symbols. Next there's a whole chapter on different mediums to play around with (water color, clay, pen & ink, chalk, etc. Then she gets into playing around with art, being creative, letting ourselves free to create. There are short exercises throughout to help get you rolling and there are great discussions on things like howe to talk to your images/embrace them and create meaning around them. Then there's the healing aspect - one excerise is "paint or draw your emotional response to illness" another is "use color to sooth your symptom." There's also a section that talks about keeping a journal. Overall a really excellent book that I've enjoyed. Its fun, and there are so many interesting ideas/information woven in. Symbols have always been of interest to me and there's some interesting info on that in here too.

The chapters in the book are as follows:

- Rediscovering the Soul's Palette
- Creativity as a Healing force
- Knowing materials and creating space
- Visual symbols as messengers, guides and friends
- Letting your images tell their stories
- Images as a path to physical well-being
- Art as reparation and restoration
- Nuturing the sacred
- Sharing the Artist within

I definitely recommend this book for someone looking to open up/get in touch with that quiet voice. I have a clay cup that has a saying written on it - "When in doubt, listen quietly to yourself." This book helps you listen to that quiet voice.

beautifully written, best book on this topic to date
I have read all the books on art and health and this one surpasses all of them. The author writes beautifully and sensitively about art making and why it is helpful to one's well-being. The exercises suggested in this book are easy to do and have great results, for both the beginner as well as more advanced. While I loved No More Second Hand Art by London and Trust the Process by McNiff, this book is much more clear in its writing and message.

The book is particularly useful if you are going through a physical illness or emotional distress-- you will find that the author offers many creative strategies to help. And if you are interested in spiritual aspects of art making, you can buy no better book on why art and spirituality are closely connected. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Hand Rehabilitation
This book gives case studies of specific hand/arm injuries with time-tables for splinting/treatment in therapy, etc. Aids in outpatient clinic setting.

Excellent resource for therapists
Information is laid out clearly & precisely. A great "how to" book with useful & practical information. I would recommend this book to any therapist practicing in hands.

Useful clinical book of protocols for hand therapy
This book has been helpful in following a hand/UE protocol when you have not received one from the doctor. It also helps if your a new therapist and are not sure where to start with your patient.

Great quick reference
A great quick review reference book, very helpful within a practice setting for easy-to-access information. Information is designed in a diagnosis-treatment summary style, good for therapists looking for a quick reference on common treatment diagnoses. For more detailed info (as one might need for initial instruction or for the CHT exam), one might be better served by the "Rehabilitation of the Hand" volumes. This book is very practical and helpful in day to day practice. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Teaching In a Foreign Country?
I am teaching a course on pediatric occupational therapy in Germany. This book has been a life-saver for me, since it has given me clear definitions of major frames of reference in use around the world. I am looking forward to the newest edition!

An excellent resource
This book provides an excellent guide for moving from theory to practice! Each frame of reference is clearly delineated and the application to practice section of each frame of reference demonstrates how it can be used. It is a critical resource for providing theory based interventions. Good background information is provided for becoming a good, well rounded pediatric practitioner. ... Read more

Book Description

All across the country, a groundbreaking movement is forming in the field of health care: art and medicine are becoming one, with remarkable results. In major medical centers such as the University of Florida, Duke, University of California, and Harvard Medical School, patients confronting life-threating illness and depression are using art, writing, music, and Dance to heal body and soul.

A woman with breast cancer who has never made art before finds healing and empowerment by creating sculpture.A man with AIDS uses journalling to overcome feelings of despair and helplessness.A woman suffering from depression following her divorce learns to dance for the first time in her life--and in he body's movement she rediscovers a sense of play and joy.A musician gives meaning to his art by helping people with illness transform their life through music.Physicians and nurses are beginning to use creativity to complement and enhance their medical practice.

Creative Healing presents readers with the inspiring ways in which the arts (painting, writing, music, and dance) can free the spirit to heal.In one volume, the authors detail the transformative power of a diverse range of artistic activity.Michael Samuels, M.D., has over twenty-five years of experience working with cancer patients and is the best-selling author of Seeing with the Mind's Eye and The Well Baby Book.He teams up with fellow pioneer Mary Rockwood Lane, R.N., M.S.N., to share their extraordinary findings on the healing powers of the arts.Through guided imagery, personal stories, and practical exercises, they teach you how to find your "inner artist-healer," enabling you to improve your health, attitude, and sense of well-being by immersing yourself in creative activity.Both Samuels and Lane offer invaluable insight through their personal journeys and extensive groundbreaking research, noting that "prayer, art, and healing come from the same source--the human soul."

Because there lies an artist and healer within each of us, Creative Healing is an invaluable resource for anyone wishing to discover the beauty of music, dance, writing or art and connect with a deeper part of oneself.Filled with inspiration and guidance, it will help you make changes in your life and the lives of others and gain access to the sacred place where inner peace exists.

"Dr. Mike samuels is one of the leading pioneers in exploring creativity as an important part of every person's healing journey."

- Dr. Dean Ornish ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A nightingale finds its voice
Many thanks to the authors for helping me to tap into my boundless creative energy and thus tackle my morbid obesity. My poundage has remained pretty static but at least I have been able to detract from it by holding my friends and family spellbound with my beautifully crafted semi-autobiographical free-verse epic poems and impressed by my congealed lamb fat sculptures. Thank you Mr Samuels for allowing my spirit to soar.

ART AS FAITH HEALING
How can anyone be against bringing the arts into hospitals to ease the pain of hospitalization, to comfort the afflicted, to provide patients diversions from the unpleasant things that are happening to them, and to offer them some measure of control over events?

But that's a far cry from the sweeping claim of the authors that"Art heals you, and it heals others, and it heals the earth" (p.38).How can we know that arts healing does all the marvelous things that the authors claim, any better then, say, eating chicken soup or watching TV or playing chess?This question is made more difficult to answer by the fact that "healing" is never defined. In some places, it is treated as a behavior, like praying or making art, all reported to have the same physiological attributes (p.1). In still others, it is treated as a belief system, a treatment, and even a cure for illness (pp.7, 275). So it's hard to pin down just what the authors meanwhen they say that art is "healing" or to know if it "works."

The authors present a host of sweeping claims, but little evidence, that this is a book about "conquering illness" (p.2) The evidence presented consists largely of anecdotal data which, of course, present only individual successes, never failures, or of studies done in fields other than the arts. The authors brush aside the need for proof. "Do we need proof," they ask (p.97) "that the soul exists to use that word, or that God exists to pray?" Yet they refer to their "medically proven" technique (p.2) with which "we believe that many people have cured themselves of cancer, AIDS and depression"(p.7)

In fact, there is constant reference to research. The book cites work done by investigators like Dr. Herbert Benson, who found that meditation and prayer lowered blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate as evidence that art works the same way, although Benson never mentioned art. Nor do the authors refer to the fact that Benson found that the repetitive use of nonsense words had the same effect as "spritual" activities like praying or meditating.

Neither Benson nor Noman Cousins (who found that humor aids in recuperation) makes the kind of lofty claims that appear in this book. Nor did Dr. William Fry or Dr. Steve Allen (son of the comedian) with whom I shared a platform at the National Library of Medicine of the NIH on the subject of The Medicinal Muses.

The traditional way of finding if a program is accomplishing what we want it to accomplish is to conduct an outcome study, comparing people in this program with those who have had other experiences, other treatments, or no attention at all.

But the authors make it clear (p.32) that they are not intested in "outcome measurement other than the patient's experience of the process as being meaningful.Fair enough, but there are many ways of comparing patients' attitudes and perceptions of the experience of art with their perceptions of the meaningfulness of reading a book, or talking with visitors, or looking at flowers, or eating ice cream from the ward refrigerator, or even with the laying on of hands.

Without defining what the program is supposed to be doing, we can't validate it. And without outcome measures, how can we distinguish between healing triumphs and specious travesties? How can we know the difference between significant recovery and the feel-good results of the Hawthorne effect? Or of a stiff martini?

It's just these kinds of exaggerated and unsupported claims by some arts therapists that motivated my dance therapist wife and me to spend five years of research on our book The Art and Science of Evaluation in the Arts Therapies: How Do You Know What's Working?, in which we wrote: "Increasing numbers of . . .nonverbal therapists have come to accept the need for more than faith, zeal and anecdotal reports of cures in considering the effectiveness of their work."

But, contend the authors, they do accept the need for research. However, their concept of research is interesting. They write: "Research needs to be done qualitatively and quantitatively to determine HOW [not if] art heals. More research needs to be done to DEMONSTRATE THAT [not verify if]art improves the quality of life, reduces symptoms, and relieves pain. Important research needs to be done TO DEMONSTATE THAT [not verify if] art lengthens the lives of people with life-treatening illness and THAT {not if] it cures illness" (p.275)

Art these the words of an investigator or of an evangelist?

The authors distinguish between art in healing and the arts therapies (their understanding of which is seriously deficient, except for the fact that the practice of arts therapies requires training). In their comparison, they reject the need for training, and they state: "Currently, we believe that there is no need for licenses to certify artists in art and healing. The only license you need to be with another human being in a time of suffering is to be human, to be present, and to have the intention to be healing" (p.32).

In view of this clear distinction, it's puzzling that the home institution of one of the authors is offering both at the University of Florida and at a local community college, an art-in-medicine certificate program to promote "career options" for artists. While the physiological and psychological benefits of laughter have been well documented, the proponents of humor in healing would probably consider it a joke to suggest a certificate program in telling jokes in hospitals.

One may also wonder, in light of their clear distinction between art therapy and art healing, why an article in The Gainesville Sun, with no attribution other than "Special to the Sun" (which usually means that the article was submitted by an unamed outside source) describes the artists as "therapists," and why the program co-director (and the co-author of this book)refers to the program as "a complementary therapy."

Creative Healing shows you how to use art for healing.
As one of the artists with Shands Arts in Medicine, the pioneering program discussed in Creative Healing, I feel compelled to respond to some of the reviews that have appeared here. While the Shands AIM program is certainly not the first, it is one of the most comprehensive programs in the country. We have had hundreds of artists volunteer their time over the years.

Authors Samuels and Lane advocate art as an adjunct to medical care; they encourage sterile, dry, humorless medical institutions to add to their ranks those people whose only task is help patients express their pain, sadness, wishes, joy, anxiety, happiness, or fear, not from any clinical base, but from a human, craetive space.

I work with patients on a regular basis, and I see how patients and families are eager to have us enter their rooms. How much joy is expressed when we encourage them to sing, dance, draw, paint, tell stories, write poetry. They are eager to participate, to make art, to dance from wheel chairs, and squish paint together between pieces of colored paper, to write poetry. You have only to read the messages on the tile wall in the lobby and the healing ceiling tiles to know how important simple creative acts are to people with life-threatening illness.

Nurses and doctors invite us to visit particular patients. We offer creative breaks for hospital staff and welcome diversions for patient's families who spend long hours in the hospital often far away from home.

These stories may seem unbelievable, but I see amazing things happen every day I am at the hospital. Is it too good to be true? Nope. The synergy of art and healing is a surprise for anyone who embarks on the effort, not as a job, but as a gift.

Rather than laying claim to a concept, Lane and Samuels are spreading the word. It is past time for hospitals and medical institutions to integrate art into the healing environment. Healing is more than a result of medical attention, it's a result of attention to the whole body, mind, and spirit.

As far as the! comments about erroneous anthropology, one as only to read the great controversies within that discipline itself to know that there are already a variety of opinions on the subject. Science is even beginning to rethink evolution! And what about those flying dinosaurs? I think the past is open to speculation and I support those who are creative enough to view the world with an open mind.

Creative Healing has a wealth of information about creating personal art and about bringing art into medical settings. It's a do-it-yourself manual, complete with exercises, ideas, and experiences. I applaud the authors' efforts and look forward to hearing stories from other writers who have pioneered these concepts. The more that is written, the more likely those in charge of planning and designing hosptials will realize that an art room is as important as an operating room.

mixed feelings about glittering generalities
This title caught my interest when advertized in a recent issue of a family therapy magazine. As a therapist I know many people who use art as a hobby and a way to help them through difficult times. I commend the authors for talking about this form of personal growth and therapy (although the authors shun this word, they still are taking about therapy) and for compiling many stories of whay they call "creative healing."

However, I found the language and tone of this book a bit far-fetched. While I believe in the message this book conveys, its glittering generalities spoil the overall content. The authors seem to want the reader that they have discovered some new form of healing, even say that it is just emerging and "being born"; later they contradict themselves, saying art as healing has been around since the dawn of history. This is not a new field and many others have talked about the use of art in healing for many decades, including expressive arts therapists and the work of Rudolph Steiner quite early in the 20th century.

However, I am most disturbed by the message that everyone will heal from becoming involved in art or working with a healing artist. Again, while I believe in the power of arts (and also alternative aand conventional medicine) to heal, the message of this book would have been more strong if the authors had infused their broad experiences in health care with their observations (if only to be ethical with an audience of physically ill and often desparate, people who may be reading the book with hope for recovery and extended life). There are too many contradictions in what the authors state (that healing arts are not therapy when it seems that all the cases demonstrate how therapeutic the arts are, that there is no concern for finding meaning when throughout they talk about finding meaning aka: interpretation of art), Yes the arts are difficult to classify and is certainly difficult to research, but some attempt could be made to get things straight. Als! o the use of the term "art" to cover all the arts is very confusing (it seems the authors do not have fine arts backgrounds other wise they would have been more sensitive to this) and the exercises are vague and would be difficult for many of my patients to follow without more specifics. If a person is truly looking for some books which will help guide them in their search for how to use art as healing, I recommend Pat Allen's Art is a Way of Knowing and Shaun McNiff's Trust the Process; these are by two authors who seem to have a grasp of the real essentials of art for healing and growth.

Disappointing
As an artist, therapist, and expressive therapist I wasdisappointed with the contents of this book. While as an artist Iagree that there is a healing quality to the arts, this book was not well-researched in terms of the arts, art history (many erroneous facts from cave art to the present-- an anthropologist's and art historian's nightmare!!), or the connections between art and nightmare!!), or the connections between art and medicine. They are also under the impression that they have discovered "art and hea\ ling," summarily dismissing arts therapies as diagnostic and treatment-oriented (erroneous again), thus carving out what they insist is their own unique philosophy about arts and healing. In this respect, they either have not done their homework or decided to bypass what has already been talked about for several decades about arts and healing and the uses of arts as therapies.

The authors also convey the message that "healing artists" can help you to overcome your distress, illness, and other woes. They also assert that "Making healing art is easy. Anyone can heal himself or herself with art." Again, I agree with the premise-- art has been important in my life as a healing force-- but there have been well-trained guides and facilitators along the way, too (usually in the form of people like Samuels and Rockwell who has professional training in working within healthcare). While I am sure many compassionate, socially-minded and caring artists are out there, as a psychotherapist as well as an artist, I would be a bit more cautious about telling people they need a "healing artist" to help solve a depression or trauma. And although "art heals," it is a bit of a stretch to say that anyone can heal himself with art and that the process is easy. Anyone who has tried to help someone change, transform, or emotionally repair someone (through traditional or non-traditional medicine, psychotherapy, or any other healing art form), or who has had to overcome trauma! or crisis in his or her life knows that this process of reparation (whether is be body, soul, or psyche)is not at all easy or foolproof.

The book's strong points are artists' examples of healing arts. The weakess point, however, comes across throughout-- that the authors are not as deeply connected to the healing arts as the artists they speak of. It seems that they found a "gold mine" through gathering all these stories into one book. They are to be commended for collecting some many wonderful stories about these artists and it is these stories which convey the essence of why art helps and heals in certaingnore the snake oil in cases. If the reader can focus on these stories this is a book worth reading. ... Read more

Book Description

A review and exploration of the evidence that animals have a significant influence on human life and health. The authors, who were the original investigators of well known studies, show that physical and emotional health can be improved with human-animal interaction. The book reviews the evolution of domestication and the basis for the importance of companion animals in our lives. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

For Responsible Pet Owners Only . . .
I would like to revise my original book review on this book.

This book is outstanding and I would highly recommend it for EVERY dog owner and POTENTIAL dog owner.

In addition to discussing the reasons why people choose pets, as well as discussing traits of pets themselves, the authors address other very important topics. Some of the topics discussed are: euthanasia; dog bites -- causes, statistics, solutions; strays -- how to identify them from wandering but owned dogs, and the health problems strays pose; dog packs -- how they operate and the dangers of packs. The authors included a table, The Urban Stray Dog, which is helpful in identifying the difference between an 'Owned Dog' and an 'Unowned Dog.' Also addressed are the diseases that dogs and pets can pass on to humans, their occurrence, and solutions to these disease threats. Not left out are issues such as dealing with people who have too many pets -- and how this type of multiple ownership causes problem for other urban dwellers; the traits of these multiple pet owners are also discussed. Dog laws are also discussed as are poop scoop laws.

The back of the book lists books and articles that the reader might find helpful under various topics discussed in the book; also listed are resource to be found on the internet on topics such as Pets in Therapy, Pet Information, Animal Behavior, Animal Care, Pet Loss, and Veterinary Education and Professional Services.

The book discussed other companion animals as well, but as a dog owner, I tended to focus my review on those issues relevant to me. I do not mean to bias you against the book by excluding mention of other companion animals addressed in the book. This book is probably one of the most comprehensive books I have read about companion animals and the issues surrounding them.

This book covers issues not dealt with in any other book I have read -- yet knowledge of these issues is necessary for being a responsible pet owner. No matter what your pet, you ought to give this book a read. It is a very easy and interesting read, the balance between active and passive voice tends to draw you into the context and makes it hard to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

For Serious Pet Owners Only . . .
This book is a "must read" for those who consider their pet a close friend or family member.

The book is an easy read, and I found myself 3/4 of the way through it the first night. Not only is the topic interesting, but the writing skill is commendable -- it is written with a nice balance of active/passive voice.

It explained to me, in easy layman terms, the physiological benefits of pet companionship. It also explains why we psycologically find pet 'ownership' so satisfying.

Other books have explored this human-pet relationship through pictures -- "Guys and Dogs", "Woman's Best Friend", "New York Dogs" and they have done a fine job with the pictures.

The authors of "Between Pets and People" have now given us the words and facts to explain our feelings for our pets, And through the facts and explanations emerges a legitimacy for the pet-people relationship that didn't exist before. As you read the book you discover as much about yourself as you do about animal companionship.

This book belongs on your bookshelf! ... Read more

Book Description

This practical guide to clinically significant neuroscience, written with rehabilitation professionals in mind, connects neuroscience theory to clinical application with stories. It also includes case studies, and lists summarizing key features of neurological disorders. Numerous tables, flow charts and boxes highlight essential concepts, processes, and relationships. Full-color illustrations, including an atlas, clarify the spatial relationships among neural structures, demonstrate pathological neural changes, and show individuals with various neurological disorders. Unique features include an accurate summary of contemporary research and theory on spasticity and a thorough explanation of vestibular function and dysfunction. The book follows a logical progression from the molecular and cellular level to systems and regions, making the text both comprehensive and useful. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A good general reference
Laurie Lundy-Ekman's book was the textbook in my recent upper division neuroanatomy course and offered a good base reference for the course. The author mentions neurological problems relevant to the brain area discussed in that chapter, which is helpful for a better understanding. Its a great reference book to keep on the shelf and its smaller size makes it more handy than other larger neurology books. ... Read more

Book Description

The most widely used of all modalities in physical therapy is the use of electrical modalities for both diagnosis and treatment. This handy pocket reference provides clinicians and students with the set up protocols they need to use the modality effectively. All clinical protocols are based on research and clinical experience and are presented in an easy-to-read format. Each protocol is accompanied by a line drawing with clear identification of proper electrode placement. Reviews electrotherapy technique by diagnoses: wound healing, spinal cord injury, carpal tunnel syndrome, pain management and more. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

excellent on everything
this boock is an excllent and accurate source of information on electrotherapy and all of it forms, including TENS, electroacupuncture and more ... Read more

Book Description

Occupational therapists, those in psychosocial practice and students preparing for careers in both areas will appreciate the way in which Psychosocial Occupational Therapy: A Holistic Approach, 2E incorporates theory, research and clinical practice. A discussion of the history of occupational therapy and its evolution within the psychosocial practice provides a solid foundation for practical instruction regarding the development of therapeutic treatments, use of psychotropic medicines, and the construction and evaluation of clinical research studies. Outlines for developing therapeutic treatments and examples illustrating ideas and techniques found throughout.(key words: occupational therapy, occupational therapists, holistic, research) ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Lots of eval and assessment tests overviews
This book offers a great reference to find evaluation tests and assessments. This is a good reference for the OT student. It provides an overview of many tests used in psych occupational therapy. It also gives food for thought regarding myths in mental health. It provides stress management information and gives application on how to use stress management in occupational therapy practice. This book shows the relationship between the theoretical models of psychology, theories and occupational therapy frames of reference. ... Read more

Book Description

Completely revised and updated to reflect changes in the field, the new edition of this popular text presents a model of a disabled human operator using various assistive technologies.Also included: an overview and historical perspective of the field; special disabilities and the use of assistive technologies; how to derive and measure standards of performance; proper positioning when using assistive devices; and more.New to this edition -- a comprehensive glossary; new appendices, including a list of resources and a list of product manufacturers; additional case studies; new illustrations and photographs; and more! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Super Book
This is one of the best books on Assistive Technology that I have read. Sue Hussey establishes herself as the leader of this field. The whole world wonders what will she write next? The illustrations, apparently done by her talented brother, are also incredible.

This book is more than a Bible for who is in the field.
Very good for Occupational Therapists and Physical Therapists. Excellent for rehabilitation engineers. A very good guide for those who wish to start an AssistiveTechnology Service in rehabilitation. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Essential!
This compilation has been with us for a few years now yet remains essential for anyone wishing to delve into the study of human activity - 'occupation' in the context of the emerging discipline of occupational science that has now been developing since at least 1989. As a doctoral student in this area of study, it is a book I return to again and again to gain clarity and vision when composing papers and attempting to digest the complexity of why and how humans engage in daily life. Don't let the publication date deter you...the papers in this book remain very relevant for the very exciting academic discipline that is taking shape right now! Enjoy... ... Read more