Like a good detective novel, Michelle Skeens book will help you uncover the mystery of your difficult relationship. After reading this book, youll understand how your childhood experiences still affect your life, but more importantly, youll learn what you can do to put them behind you and move on. Jeffrey C. Wood, PsyD, psychologist and coauthor of The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook is goodreads free to read books The Critical Partner: How to End the Cycle of Criticism and Get the Love You Want
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Beware of Slim Volumes!By Arthur D. LiberaAs they say, "beware of slim volumes"... this book while not a "big book" it is packed with vital information on navigating the complexities of human relationships. Dr. Skeen uses the Schema Theory which was appealing to me in examining my patterns because of my repeating of destructive, self defeating behavior in relationships. Of all the books I have read on relationships, this book clearly helped me identify the root causes of my struggles in relationships. Unlike some books on relationships, this one is not only theory but practice. Dr. Skeen thoughtfully engages the reader with worksheets and exercises which truly engaged me in the process of honestly evaluating my truth and my part in the dynamics of my relationships. The book is very helpful because no matter if you are the "critical partner" or not, there is ample understanding for all parties. The book is not a "blame book", it's a book of deepening understanding, empathy and most importantly healing solutions. Because the Schema Theory is about addressing repeating destructive patterns in relationship that are related to childhood, this work gets to the real causes of our reactions and difficulties in dealing with others, and truly helps the reader create solutions and ultimately healing and healthy choices.Dr. Michelle Skeen also has a great website which I highly recommend, [...]. The website also has links to her weekly radio show, "Relationships 2.0", which is in limited distribution in California radio markets. I predict Dr. Skeen's work and media exposure is just beginning, keep your eyes and ears tuned to her. She has valuable workable solutions to the challenges of improving relationships. This book is a staple of my self improvement, and I cannot recommend it enough as a path to growth!3 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Now things make senseBy R. WilliamsThe Critical Partner is the kind of book that can truly change how you interact with important people in your life. In this age of disconnection, Michelle guides you to deeper connection with yourself and with your significant others. The examples and worksheets are incredibly helpful. Give yourself time to read and absorb this book, it's definitely worth it! R. Williams, coauthor of The Mindfulness Workbook for Addiction.0 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Too much blah, blah, blah at the beginning...By TuffypaintTurn to the last few chapters to get the strategies you need. I don't have time to take an inventory on my spouse...besides, he would never cooperate....because he's critical....so that part of he book was useless. The advice in the last few chapters was okay, but you have to remember that being critical is something that will never end....it's only attempting to minimize the amount you receive. Also, the follow up discussion part....well, lets just say that wont happen without a therapist present.