A critical examination of the effectiveness of psychotherapy through the lens of the scientific method. Using both case examples and clinical research, the book challenges the conclusion that there is empirical support for the notion that psychotherapy is effective.

Psychologist-attorney Eisner puts psychotherapy on trial by critically examining its effectiveness through the lens of the scientific method. From psychoanalysis to cognitive-behavior therapy as well as the 500 or so other psychotherapies, there is not a single experimental study that supports the effectiveness of psychotherapy over a placebo or religious healing. Using both case examples and clinical research, this book challenges the conclusion that there is empirical support for the notion that psychotherapy is effective.