In The Self-Esteem Companion, the authors teach readers how to deal with 'shoulds and mistakes, handle criticism and feel more self-confident in their personal relationships. Each of thesixtyexercises include a brief, motivating description of the technique, tips for maximizing its effectiveness, and simple step-by-step instructions for putting it into place. Included are strategies for unmasking and talking back to the critic, making a realistic inventory of personal strengths and weaknesses, recognizing and rebutting distorted thoughts, and practicing self-compasssion.
Matthew McKay is the founding director of Haight-Ashbury Psychological Services and co-director of Brief Therapy Associates in San Francisco. He is the coauthor of twelve popular self-help books. Dr. McKay is also on the faculty of the Wright Institute in Berkeley.
Patrick Fanning is a professional writer in the mental health field. He is the author of eight self-help books.
Carole Honeychurch is the coauthor of Talk to Me and Love Tune-Ups. Catharine Sutker is coauthor of The Self-Nourishment Companion. Both are San Francisco Bay Area freelance writers.