Helen Webster

Helen Webster

Helen Webster

@helenwebster - Reader

Helen Webster

Helen Webster

@helenwebster - Reader

Helen Webster
Helen Webster left a comment on You Don't Need Therapy. The SYSO System. 7 Steps to Sort Your Sh*t Outabout 4 years ago
about 4 years ago
@alanlucas Thank you for taking the time to respond here. I do appreciate it. My comment on Instagram was not an attack. It was merely a question regarding why you chose this title for the book. I have no doubt that the content of your book may contain useful "tips" to help people manage difficulties in their lives. And I am very aware mental health services are stretched and that some people find self-help approaches effective. I have no issue with this. My query was merely regarding the chosen TITLE of the book. And my concern /query still remains/I feel is still valid. To say "7 steps to sorting your sh*t out" to me comes across as rather brash, dismissive, insensitive (if I told someone or they told me in day to day life to "sort sh*t out" or "get sh*t together", the tone of voice is quite negative/aggressive; one of frustration - just the use of the word "sh*t" itself I think in THIS CONTEXT is quite wrong. You probably used it playfully, to make the book seem more accessible, and make "self help" seem less daunting. But actually, my personal view is that reducing people's problems to "sh*t" can potentially be damaging - particularly if a person is feeling very sensitive, very vulnerable. As I say, I've no doubt the CONTENT of your book is well researched and offers some valuable guidance. I simply feel that - particularly if you have worked as a therapist yourself for a time - the TITLE of the book is somewhat ill considered. And I respectfully disagree. You say the book title isn't suggesting therapy is not good, or that people shouldn't seek help. But actually, by saying YOU DONT NEED THERAPY, I think it DOES somewhat nullify the benefits of therapy; you're literally telling people they DON'T need it. Words are very important. And can easily be misconstrued. With a book cover/title as your 'shop window', so to speak, I just felt this was a strange/risky title to go for, given the breadth of your target audience and the vast spectrum of difficulties people face in their lives. This is merely my personal view/feedback. That said, I wish you well with your book. And thank you again for taking the time to reply to me.
Helen Webster
Helen Webster left a comment on You Don't Need Therapy. The SYSO System. 7 Steps to Sort Your Sh*t Outabout 4 years ago
about 4 years ago
This morning, I passed comment on Instagram regarding this book. I NEVER post critical stuff on social media.. But this post really jarred. I commented that I didn't like the book title. That, for people who have suffered great life traumas (abuse, PTSD, etc), therapy is very likely a lifeline! I have seen and experienced first hand how people can BENEFIT from therapy.. (it can be life saving!) and so, seeing a book title like this (which to be honest is flippant and pretty much immediately discounts therapy as a useful tool for healing) may have the devestating effect of invalidating a person's feelings at a point where they may already have little self confidence/self worth. And subsequently, they may not take that first crucial step to seeking help they DO need. I said I felt that a title like this exuded a form of toxic positivity. And that I was curious to know why they used it. Rather than respond, the author decided to block me on Instagram. Which I think says alot. Not a book I shall be purchasing personally.
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