Support Groups Books

If I could only buy one book to help me get through a family member's dementia this would be it. I have read it, underlined it, quoted it and used it. It is a source of information and comfort. This is a must buy!!

This book is absolutely wonderful. Other books on caregiving were too clinical. This book is like having a wonderful conversation with friends who have been through what you are experiencing. The book offers the perspectives of many different caregivers which was very helpful because the nature of the dementia differs for many people. There were helpful tips and suggestions and words of advice from caregivers and this was presented in short easy to digest segments.

I am a caregiver to my 90yr old blind mother who suffers from vascular dementia as well. This book was written by other caregivers with information , questions and answers that can only be appreciated by those who care with someone with this type of illness. The book covers many types of dementia, whether it be Alzheimers, vascular or others. What is really important is that the book encourages the caregiver to take care of themselves if they are to be able to take care of their patient.

This book is one of the best books on caregiving and dementia. It gives real life stories and situations that one can really relate to. The authors have done a great job. Each chapter is about a different issue in the life and path of the person with dementia as well as ones about the caregivers. You will see so much of yourself and the person you caregive for in these pages. I gained further insight into what to do in many situations I have encountered as a caregiver. Good stuff and highly recommended.

I find this book to be a very loving and thoughtful account of the stories of caregivers of loved-ones with Dimentia. It has practical advise on how to cope, where to go for support and even a some comical moments told with the utmost of respect! I would recommend this book to anyone who is a caregiver or knows someone who is. It seems we all know someone with this disease.

After reading Stepping Out of the Bubble a year ago, I went back and read it again for a second time. I was able to pick up even more information this time around that helped me understand and overcome some of my own internal conflicts. This is a book you can read at any point in your life and always find information that pertains to that particular moment. Krehbiel has a way of explaining things that others may consider unexplainable. Whether you are a student, a teacher, or just a guy like me, this book can and will change your life.

James P. Krehbiel's Stepping Out of the Bubble was a fascinating read. I found myself underlining various passages. His explanation of how we get stuck in the bubble (comfort zone), and how we find our way out is powerful. It provided me with hope as I move through my own personal journey. I found myself experiencing an emotional reaction to many of the case examples and concepts he explored. He definitely hit some "hot buttons" in my life. But Mr. Krehbiel also provided specific guidelines and tools for stepping out of the bubble. At one point he says, "Courage can be defined by those who live outside the bubble as opposed to those who live in it. I like to compare stepping out of the bubble to wading into the water."

His chapter which includes ideas on multidimensional thinking is appropriate in today's political climate. He indicates that true dialogue takes into consideration the appreciation for differences in opinions. He makes some profound statements about pop culture's affect on the lives of today's children. He also gives parents tools and resources for assisting their children in bettering their behavior. The book ends with a resounding "yes" to life with a hopeful, powerful way of perceiving and reframing life's problems. This was an excellent book!

Stepping Out Of The Bubble by James P. Krehbiel, Is an outstanding book on Counseling Therapy. Krehbiel, is able to put life patterns and fears into perspective so that the lay person can fully understand the mystery that most think is behind counseling. His approach to show that so much of what we seek answers for is within ourselves and with the right counsellor we can become free and step out of the Bubble or Bubbles that a lot of us are in.

This book should be a gift to every teen and their parents, no home should be without it.

"Stepping Out of the Bubble : Reflections On the Pilgrimage of Counseling Therapy by James P. Krehbiel is an amazing and outstanding book that provides help and direction to the many people that are suffering from problems described in this book.

I was amazed at how many of the problems and challenges, that the author writes about, are problems and challenges I have seen many people suffer with.

The counseling theory and practice information in this book provides a direction for people that have a problem and are willing to go to counseling and risk moving forward in their journey toward finding personal growth and development, and eventually stepping out of the bubble.

Many people have problems and challenges that they never seek help for and they and their loved ones continue to suffer. This book goes a long way in bringing the thought of counseling to people and helping people to better understand the counseling process.

To author James P. Krehbiel thank you for writing your great book. I am convinced your book will help many people and because of your book many more people will step out of the bubble. I recommend this book very highly and also feel it would be a great college text.

For me, "Stepping Out Of The Bubble" was reminiscent of the renowned books of author, M. Scott Peck, in the style of presenting profound insights into sensible, easy-to-understand language and clear ideas an average person can relate to. Practicing Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist and author of "Stepping Out Of The Bubble", James Krehbiel proficiently shares a portion of his expertise, condensing great weight into accessible and workable solutions for a more fulfilling life's plan.

The "bubble" represents our security and comfort zone, but it is also the inner place where we store the pain of our past experiences and the unpleasant reality of that not being made conscious which keeps us bound in unhealthy and self-defeating patterns. Staying within this bubble limits our emotional responsiveness as we numb ourselves to the coexistence even as unresolved issues unconsciously filter forth. To step outside of the bubble is to courageously examine the contents in all honesty and to face life's reality outside of the bubble. Once outside the bubble, one can move forward to experience life in more emotional depth, fullness and passion. "Being a fully functioning individual is about being true to whom you are and letting things be the way they are," explains author, James Krehbiel.

With brilliant and compassionate understanding, Mr. Krehbiel briefly details methods used and pertinent case examples within his therapy practice. "Self-regulation is a goal of therapy. I educate people in the fact that all the answers are ultimately within." "Stepping Out Of The Bubble" strives to do the same, by giving information on how we become trapped in the bubble and how beneficial the making of conscious choices to leave, can be.

Some of the many topics included within this book are: being assertive, characteristics of an "authentic" person, the integration of each of our different personality parts, the difference between true guilt and false guilt, setting boundaries, addictions and addictions to "manic" relationships, awareness (staying in the moment or mindfulness), grounding, honoring one's inner voice, panic attacks, OCD and mood disorders. The section regarding kids and parenting was exceptional, in my opinion, and I found many points about discipline that made much sense. Also appreciated was the section relating to religion (dogma) versus faith (spiritual) as well as what needed to be said about pop culture.

I enjoyed reading "Stepping Out Of The Bubble" and would recommend it to anyone. It is enriching and inspirational.

When I was diagnosed with lung cancer, I read countless books searching for valuable information, insight and support. Cancer Talk was far and away the best book that I read. Cancer Talk addresses the cancer experience comprehensively from the perspectives of patients, family members/loved ones, and health care professionals. The voices that are heard in this book are inspiring and life-affirming. I cannot say enough good things about this wonderful book. Reading Cancer Talk will make your cancer experience easier to bear - you will find hope and the wisdom of survivors in its pages.

Recently diagnosed with Non Hodgkins Lymphoma, I felt very isolated as most women's cancer support groups focus on breast cancer. This book let me know that I was not alone- and that what I was feeling was not only normal, but healthy. It reinforced my belief that positive thought and support are crucial elements to being a survivor. Highly recommended!

Having spent almost 4 years in the cancer treatment process with my wife, I highly recommend this book. Its wealth of stories, resources, and insights will be invaluable to anyone who finds themselves trying to understand treatment alternatives and make good decisions for themselves or a loved one. I wish this book had been available to provide guidance and hope to my wife and I. I highly recommend that you buy a copy, use it yourself, or give it to someone who needs it. I have given copies to friends going through the cancer experience, and they have all expressed great appreciation for the knowledge, hope, and inspiration they received from "Cancer Talk".

I happened to be reading "Cancer Talk" just prior to undergoing a biopsy for prostate cancer. The book offered me a special balance of comfort and knowledge from both clinical and personal perspectives. It helped prepare me emotionally for the procedure and the anxiety I felt awaiting the test results. Fortunately the biopsy turned out negative, but reading "Cancer Talk" was a very positive experience. I recommend this book to everyone who needs to understand more about this disease and how it affects patients, survivors, caregivers, friends and family-and I can't think of anyone who would be excluded from this list.

This isn't just a book for people who have been touched by cancer, but, for their loved ones as well.

It will get you informed on every aspect of cancer. Help you deal with the emotions of your diagnosis, helps you cope with the physical and sexual issues. Help you to learn your options in your treatment process, and in the legal work place issues and what your insurance will and will not cover; most of all, how important it is to be in a cancer support group. This is a very important book for those who want to be well informed about this illness.

I've yet to deal with this in my family, knock wood, I was sincerely impressed and informed. Very well done.

Taken into Custody: The War Against Fatherhood, Marriage, and the Family

With "EVERY SINGLE GIRL'S GUIDE", Adryenn Ashley has packaged a necessary lesson for todays' about-to-be-married woman in an easy to read style. With the death rate for first marriages running at approx. 50%, many women will be marrying divorced men. Those men carry a lot of baggage, and step children are, arguably, the least of the lot. There is an ex-wife to consider, and the biases of the family courts, and the child support payments. In a light, sometimes humorous, writing style, Ashley has created a road map through the mine fields of marrying after a divorce. Chapter after chapter covers all the important topics, the financial aspects, the problems you will share with your recently divorced new husband, and the emotional import. Put romance aside while you read for practical effect. A real eye-opener, and a necessary prep before saying, "I DO!"

This book is hilarious and should be mandatory reading for anyone dating a previously married man. It will help you to feel empowered and knowledgeable about the big issues in marriage. As we all know, communication is essential for a healthy relationship and money is one of the most common triggers of fights between spouses (or spouses-to-be). So, here is THE guide to get you talking and laughing at the same time!


Now, if your future husband has children from a previous relationship (and you don't), it would be a good idea to brush up on your safety and read a parenting book or two ;) This can help ease any tension that might creep up with the ex! ;)Care for Kids: The Essential Guide to Preparing Caregivers

Fun book and very easy to read. I have bought several copies and have given them away at my pleasure parties to my brides to be. Plus, I have a gaggle of single girlfriends and have gifted this book to them and they LOVED it, too.

Knowledge is power is my motto. Adryenn teaches you everything you should know before you even think about getting married. Fun read and very sensible advice that you can put to use immediately.

I own this book and found it both fun to read and filled with great tips and must have information for any woman who plans to spnd her life with someone. Whether you're marrying a divorced man, or even just in a long term relationship without marriage plans - like myself - this book will be very helpful to you in planning your relationship strategy.

Adryenn Ashley's book is a clearly written, current, All-in-One, comprehensive guide to creating a marriage financial plan. Don't waste your money buying other books, then try piecing together outdated information.

If you have questions, need help planning your future marriage finances or getting through the legalese, this is the guide for you. Adryenn Ashley's book was written to strengthen marriages through sound and proven financial planning. Every Single Girl's Guide to Her Future Husband's Last Divorce

The book shares stories of women with POF and it helps you feel like you are not the only one in the world who has this condition. I wish this was available when I was diagnosed! It would have saved me months of doubting and crying. I recommend this to anyone who has POF or knows someone who does.

Reading this book will provide a tremendous source of valuable information for women with POF, especially those first struggling to learn about it when they are diagnosed. The emotional support can be felt by reading all the stories written by the brave women who have POF, and by their loved ones who contributed stories as well. Also, this book is wonderful in that it is helping create the awareness that premature ovarian failure exists in the first place.

This book is full of accurate, important information for women with premature ovarian failure. Money well spent!!!

It is wonderful that there is FINALLY a book for women, family members and friends who are facing POF! This book is incredible for the multi-faceted dimensions of POF that it presents, providing a real-life picture of what it is to live with this relatively rare disease. A superb resource!!!

"Faces of POF: Learning and Living with Premature Ovarian Failure" is a touching book about women's struggle with Premature Ovarian Failure and their methods of coping with this life-altering disease. If you, or someone you know, is suffering from POF, this book is a MUST for you to understand the emotional rollercoaster that is POF.

Reading other men's views and feelings about key life issues in Finding Our Fire provided an inside view of what other men think and feel. In understanding their perspective, I felt a sharing with all men making me feel more positive about my own sense of masculinity. This 'diving into me',so to say, provided a unique experience I've rarely received from other books. I strongly recommend Finding Our Fire not only to men but to women also so they can understand us better.

We live in a culture that devalues the masculine. This devaluation tends to promote negative stereotypes of boys and men which snowball in the media and become entrenched ideas. Brossman's "Finding Our Fire - Enhancing men's connection to heart, passion and strength" is a clear and insightful look into masculinity that bypasses and goes far beyond the stereotypes. It offers an easily accessible and perceptive view of what men need to do, and what men are doing, to connect with our passion and fire. Brossman is a captivating story teller and an old hand at observing and facilitating human development. You get pearls from him throughout the book but importantly you gain from the voice of the many men who for the last 10 years have been a part of his Men's Inquiry groups. In fact the book is a great source to bring understanding about men and their ways of doing things but also a very powerful guide and template for men to create their own inquiries with other men.

The book is also a great tool for women trying to love and understand the men in their lives.

Highly recommended.

This is an interesting book. At first, it felt a bit weird to read all of these guys' responses to the various questions. It's a much different book than a lot of others out there that just give you the author's viewpoint. This book gives you an assortment of viewpoints about all kinds of things related to life as a man. I am about halfway through the book and really enjoying it. I am taking the book as slowly as it deserves.

Martin is a unique character who never fails to find the golden core of those he meets. In this book, he touches the golden core of men in a way that enlightens and provides fodder for reflection and meaningful discussion. Oprah ought to be all over this author and his book. And I'm not a guy who generally cares for Oprah.

This is the most complete book on the subject of wayward children I have read. I teach an adult Sunday School class and found a wealth of material and application. Also, having had a prodigal son, I found this book a tremendous comfort and tool to sort out the factors that led to my son's rebellion.

Our group of four couples "taught" ourselves the associated class based on the principles in this Christian-based book; three couples for rescue and one for prevention. I am now teaching the class for the third time and, as word spreads, several dozen families have been helped in rescuing their rebellious teens and by learning prevention techniques and guiding principles used in raising their children. We recommend it highly.

Our church used this as the core text for a series of group sessions for hurting parents-- parents of teens in various states of rebellion, destructive lifestyle choices, and apathy. It proved to be quite helpful, well-grounded in Christian principles, and with many good insights and practical steps to take.

13 years ago, we belonged to one of Buddy Scott's support groups and used his book as our manuel. I am firmly convinced that my husband & I would have been divorced now if we didn't have the help from Buddy's book. It is clear and concise with common sense approach to dealing with an out of control teen. It also gives principals to help younger children before they reach that horrible stage in their life. I will forever be grateful for Buddy's help! I am always recommending his book to those who are struggling with difficult teens. It's like receiving something substantial to hold onto along with the Word of God in a emotional emergency.

I thoroughly enjoyed this account of the adventures of a man who can talk intelligently about American History and a motorcycle engine in the same breath. He tells of his two year stint in the U.S. Marine Corps that shocked him into manhood and talks about his experiences with recreational drugs in the "60's". I especially enjoyed his adventures with the "Mountaineers" motorcycle club that he has been a member of for many years. This is a memior of an obviously well read introspective man who can write beautiful poetry in one chapter and tell darn good jokes in the next. It's a good read.

I really enjoyed reading and going on great adventures with Wayne, He's a very good communicater,and he has lead an interesting life. I especially enjoyed the touching moments when his father says good-bye and why wayne decided that hunting wasn't such great fun.

Getting It Sideways is the personal memoir of Wayne Bonkosky and is a faithful account of his travel, his time spent in the Marine Corps Boot Camp, his life in Germany as an immigrant worker, his twenty-five years of dirt-track motorcycle racing, and a great deal more. Written with the same "good clean fun" zest that the adventurous Wayne Bonkosky brought to his life experiences and opportunities, Getting It Sideways is sometimes humorous, often upbeat, and always reflects the challenges and joys inherent in the uplifting surge of questing for one's passion.

Many people do not relize the necessity of support for pastors and ministers. As a pastor's daughter I daily see the stress, pressure and frustration weighing on my father. This book has excellent suggestions for ways to bless those who bless others. There is no way any pastor or religious worker can perform their duty to the community and God without the support of EVERYONE in their congregation. Please read and use!

(Initial review Aug. 25, 1999)
I'm now reading it thru for the 2nd time, the first being two years ago. I have put some of the suggestions into action and have had great success with them. If you have a good pastor (I have the best one in the world) and you want to encourage/assist/take care of him, you simply must read this book. It has so many practical ideas in it, and they are pretty easy to put into action. Now, two years later, knowing my pastor better, some of the ideas are more timely, so the book is fresh even the second time around. But make no mistake, there are many things you can do right away!

I have alot of "how to" books, and this one goes on the top shelf. Recently, my pastor told me "Jamey, you are a pastor's dream". This book will help YOU get the same compliment.

I wish everybody in our congregation would read this book - You know what? I think I will buy it for them!!

2005 - Recently we used this book as a guide to determining benefits, vacation, time off, sick time and things like that for our Pastor.

Practical...doable...easy to use and follow...a must for all people interested in seeing their pastors thrive and grow in their ministries. Especially useful for church boards. Can also be useful for those searching for new pastors.

This is a book written in large print, so in its 90 pages are actually closer to about 45 pages of normal size and spaced text. But what's inside is really worth reading. Ms Bauser designs a program for 24 weeks of groups, and sets up objectives and questions for discussion, as well as establish guidelines for how to lead the groups. What I found most interesting was that the group sessions could be used for many different kinds of groups,not just those with survivors of neurologic brain injury.

Nancy Bauser's "Acceptance Groups for Survivors: A Guide for Facilitators" is a book that lends help to victims who have survived harrowing accidents leading to disabilities. A victim of a devastating accident in which she sustained extensive brain injury, Bauser draws on her own experiences of trauma and recovery to formulate a program that assists victims of extensive injuries and trauma.

Bauser's book opens with a note about the need for victims to find self "acceptance" in order to recover. She says that the key to victims' returning to normalcy is their ability to accept themselves for what they are. She points out that the process of rehabilitation essentially consists of recognition, admittance, and acceptance. This book follows a step-by-step approach to be put to use in a series of twenty-four sessions. Each weekly session is designed to guide facilitators in their attempts to help survivors as they come to terms with their loss by grieving and overcoming it. She mentions that with patience, facilitators can help survivors develop their inner strengths so that they can form and achieve noteworthy goals. Once survivors are able to come to terms with themselves, they try to cope with people around them. Survivors may struggle to be accepted by other people, but this problem can be solved with the assistance of support groups. Bauser suggests that survivors get involved in volunteer work; so that they realize that they too have the potential to make valuable contributions to society. Active participation in charity work can help survivors recognize the value of support groups and make the most of the interactive sessions.

Written in a straightforward manner, this book reaches out to other survivors and lends them a helping hand in bringing their lives back on track. The empathetic treatment of the subject and hands-on approach make this book a valuable guide for survivors and rehabilitation experts alike.