Reviews and Testimonials of the 1st Edition

"I have been reading your book on group leadership, because I am using it in a class I will teach at Argosy this fall. It is an excellent text; complete, full of great ideas, etc. I'm glad I decided to use it, and will use it again."

Dr. Jeff Edwards, Northeastern Illinois University

"...The book offers an in-depth, comprehensive description of group process and dynamics. The text provides an "insider's" view of internal processes and dynamics through cases studies and group member journal entries. Specific techniques and strategies are described with examples of statements group leaders might make during the group interaction. Students and professionals will find examples of leader responses to be very helpful...There are so few that go into the depth characteristic of this book.

"This book will be a pleasure to teach from.It provides examples and content that will enhance a student's ability to understand what group leadership is all about. The self-reflection questions and case studies are helpful tools for teaching group leadership."

Dr. Paula Helen Standley, Radford University

"This is an excellent text to be considered for a group therapy class.I think its strengths are manifested in the writers' clear knowledge of group therapy, the excellent examples given throughout the book, and the reflective exercises at the end of the chapter."

Dr. David J. Westhuis, Indiana University

"It is a clear method for working with groups that is based in clearly identifiable behaviors. It is a roadmap that will be helpful for those developing this type of clinical skill."

Dr. James Borling, Radford University

"I believe that this text has no other text that comes close to it. It is unique and above the rest in practical detail for leading a group...This textbook is an excellent resource for people learning to lead groups. It provides a wealth of examples, case histories, techniques, and alternative ways to assist the leader in being successful in running a group."

Dr. Dick Rundall, Rock Valley College

"If you are a counselor education professor searching for the optimal textbook to provide your students with an excellent foundation in group counseling theory, concepts and techniques, look no further. Here is a book that will provide a framework that will enable your students to go into clinical practice with the sets of skill and confidence that they need to guide their clients through a self-discovery journey that will change and improve their lives.

"Group Leadership Skills: Interpersonal Process in Group Counseling and Therapy by M. Chen and C. Rybak (2004, Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole) is a highly engaging text, full of clear, meaningful examples of interventions that group counselors need to employ in order to ensure the growth and success of their groups. This book is a remarkable combination of the theory and techniques that group counselors need to understand and master so as to effectively lead a group throughout its life cycle. An invaluable resource that will be treasured and referenced by group counseling clinicians throughout their careers, Group Leadership Skills: Interpersonal Process in Group Counseling and Therapy is the ideal textbook for group counselors in training."

Jane L. Coen, M.B.A.
31-year Public Educator
20-year Business Manager
Counselor Education Graduate Student

"'Group Leadership Skills' by Chen and Rybak really soars high in comparison to other textbooks. I benefit so much from this book because of its inspiring nature that guides me on the journey of becoming an insightful and sensitive leader in group work. The sincerity and sensitivity conveyed by the authors creates a positive energy as I learn about the group counseling process. I really love the comprehensive skills and clearly defined techniques outlined in the book. They prepare me in the unique opportunity to discover my talents in leadership in a group environment that is warm, respectful, and safe. The innovative methods described in the book, such as the Hot-Seat and Stirring the Pot methods, challenge me to develop effective conflict resolution skills.

"Also, I am encouraged to reflect on each group session so as to properly assess members’ growth and to promote individual member's further work in the group. Reflection journals really nurture my self-awareness, which enhances my confidence and ability to guide a successful group. The valuable knowledge gained through this book is not going to be forgotten because it creates memorable experiences, in which I will continue to practice the learned communication, listening, and reflection skills in my personal and professional life. I believe that "Group Leadership Skills" is a powerful and lasting gift that an instructor can give to students in training. I recommend it without any reservation."

Lydia Suh

"I really love this book! It is so applicable! Not only does it teach you the theory of groups, but it also gives you the step-by-step guides to actually running a group. What I especially like is that for each concept, there are examples of things you might actually say to facilitate in a group setting. Whether you're in graduate school or already practicing leading groups, you are definitely going to want to own this book."

Happi Bills