SELF-HELP EXERCISES

For my group programs (Never Diet Again®, Transition Seminars®, and Lemon-Aid®), I have developed a series of worksheets to assist in learning. Some of these materials include several sections or “threads” that build from one week to the next. Because so many personal difficulties contain some common elements, I have included two of those threads here for your use: Learning to Say No, and Exploring Your Relationship with Food. For the best value, I suggest that you complete each section for yourself IN WRITING, and with reflection, before simply reading ahead to the other sections.

If you would like to discuss any of these experiences when you have completed the thread, please contact me.

Note: If you are a therapist or presenter and want to use these materials, please provide a proper citation on every page (© 2005 Jaelline Jaffe, Ph.D. www.LemonAidCounseling.com). I am happy to share my work, and am giving it to you here, with only the request that you acknowledge the source. Thank you for operating with integrity.

BOOKS AND OTHER MATERIALS

There are many self-help books, tapes, and programs on the market. Some are very useful, and others offer information that is less helpful. Some are very inexpensive and you can get new or used copies of many books by shopping online at Amazon.com. Just enter the topic (such as “stress” or “panic disorder”) in the Amazon search box. Then scroll through the titles. Click to view the Table of Contents, check the number of pages (consider how much you want to read), and if possible, look at a sample chapter, to get a feel for the style of writing before you choose. Or go to the Psychology or Self-Help section in a large bookstore and browse through the books to fins something that feels comfortable to you. If you know someone who reads self-help materials, (and whose opinions you value), you can also ask for recommendations.

• Check my resources for some of my personal favorites
• Consider working with a skilled professional in addition to using a book, to tailor the experience to your own life.

Some programs, such as videos or CD materials, may cost several hundred dollars. Before investing:

• Ask others for recommendations that might be good for your situation and style.
• Check the authors to see if you feel comfortable with their backgrounds.
• Find out about the return policy, and write down the information.

After reviewing the materials, if you decide you do not want them:

• Send them back promptly.
• Be sure to cancel according to the company’s instructions, and keep all documenting materials.
• Check your credit card statement to be sure you have received proper credit for cancellation.
• If you have not been refunded, call your credit card company to stop payment on the bill (there is a time limit, so act quickly). Do this first, before trying repeatedly to contact the company directly, which can cause delays and result in passing the deadline for a refund.

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