Not on Speaking Terms

Elena Lesser Bruun, EdD, LMFT, is Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the New York University School of Medicine. She is an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Clinical Member and Approved Supervisor, and a past president of the New York State division (NYAMFT). She practices in Manhattan, where she sees individuals, families, and couples, an ever-increasing number of them premarital. Her Web site is www.elbtherapy.com. Suzanne Michael, LCSW, PhD, sociologist and LCSW, has been a family therapist, an assistant professor of social work; and the director of educational and health related programs. Currently, she is an evaluation consultant; and a senior research analyst at Rutgers University’s Education and Employment Research Center. Dr Michael has authored articles, research reports and book chapters, and has served on the editorial board of several peer review journals.

"This book has value for someone struggling with a cut-off from a family member or close friend, in part because it points out how common such problems are and helps the reader identify possible causes. It is of greatest value, however, to such professionals as school social workers and counselors, grief counselors and mental health therapists." "A powerful description and analysis of the all-too-common phenomenon of cut-offs. Particularly important and relevant to therapists but also to anyone concerned with the complexity of human interaction. Absorbing, thoughtful, and a compelling read." -- Ruth Sidel, MSW, PhD, author of Unsung Heroines: Single Mothers and the American Dream; Professor of Sociology, Emerita, Hunter College, New York, NY "This is an amazing book. The stories alone are a rich and moving experience. The clinical challenge is: what is the part that 'cut-offs' of family and friends play in your therapy practice, and what can you imagine doing about it? The authors provide abundant material-cases, theory, and literature-to help you decide." -- C. Christian Beels MD, MS, retired Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY "An intelligent, well-thought-out and researched book that is broad in scope and abundant in its strategies. The authors take an often-overlooked subject and place it front and center. With their rich professional experience, they offer thought-provoking ideas to experienced professionals, in addition to practical advice for the less experienced. I highly recommend this addition to today's professional literature." -- Anita Bardin, MS, accredited supervisor in family therapy, and past director of the Shiluv Institute of Family and Couple Therapy, Jerusalem, Israel "Those who have a serious interest in family therapy should read this book. Through a thorough, historical, and practical analysis, the authors elevate the therapeutic dilemma of the 'cut-off' and provide a road map to working with clients that is both elegant and pragmatic. This book is an invaluable guide!" -- Lois Braverman, LCSW, President, Ackerman Institute for the Family, New York, NY