Book excerpt: Why do some therapeutic conversations go well but not others? We all have prejudices and assumptions which influence how we describe the world and how we conduct our conversations with others. Therapists' own narratives can sometimes impede, rather than facilitate, effective therapeutic processes, with far-reaching effects on clients' lives. This unique and important book describes how self-reflexive practices can lead to more ethically responsible, collaborative and life-enhancing conversations. Drawing on her many years' clinical experience, Fran Hedges explores self-reflexive practice in action, offering the reader a set of skills for assessing their own personal resources and stories and unpacking their professional belief systems. Each chapter: - describes a single extended case study in psychotherapy as a source of analysis and illumination - focuses on a particular theme, from the importance of language and emotion to the often-neglected significance of bodily responses. - interweaves theory with self-reflection to offer a compelling blend of critical, conceptual and personal material. This stimulating, innovative and practical book will appeal to trainee counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists as well as experienced mental health practitioners and supervisors who are looking for ways to invigorate and enhance their practice.