Of the many methods that have been designed to help people quit their problem drinking and change thei lives, a few originated by pioneering self-help groups - such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Rational Recovery - have had considerable success. But not with everybody. When AA Doesn't Work for You is the first book in which the world famous founder of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Dr. Albert Ellis, applies the powerful insights of REBT specifically to recover from problem drinking. This book explicitly shows the reader how to get to recovery, how to stay there, and how to move on to another higher level: a more enjoyable and fulfilling life.

From Library Journal

According to the authors, the irrational thoughts and beliefs of the alcoholic--as opposed to the concept of "powerlessness" taught by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)--contribute greatly to alcoholism. Recognizing that AA may not work for everyone, they present a form of cognitive therapy known as Rational Emotive Therapy (RET). In RET, the alcoholic's irrational beliefs about drinking are consistently flushed out, challenged, and replaced with more rational ones. The authors also address "stinking thinking," a phrase coined by AA to describe the negative thoughts that often lead to relapse. Exercises in positive self-talk, creative imagery, and daily self-care are included. The ideas presented are similar to those found in a growing number of titles that offer alternatives to AA, including Jack Trimpey's The Small Book: Revolutionary Alternatives for Overcoming Alcohol and Drug Dependence (Delacorte, 1991). However, the information may be more beneficial when coupled with professional guidance. Purchase for self-help, psychology, and medical collections.
- Linda S. Greene, Chicago P.L.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.