Preface, 1. Introduction: Failing the Humanity Test, 2. Biography: Getting on my nerves, 3. Disability: Who and what is disabled?, 4. Therapy: The search for a soulful life, 5. Spirituality: The transcendental turn, 6. Society: Uncivilization and its discontents, 7. Humanity: Passing the test
John Barton is a UKCP and BACP accredited integrative psychotherapist in private practice in London, with a doctorate in Counselling Psychology, which he gained in 2019. His first career was as a magazine writer and editor in the UK, and then for a decade in the US, before he returned to London and, after a stint as a Samaritans volunteer, trained to be a counsellor. He is also a father, writer and painter.
'This is a wise and fascinating account, written accessibly by someone who is a reliable guide to the worlds of disability and psychotherapy, because it’s exactly where he lives. I trusted him immediately and recommend this book to all.' Tom Shakespeare, Professor of Disability Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine – 'The Humanity Test is a great book. John Barton has found a balance between being candid and learned about disability. This book acknowledges the emotional aspects of disability in an sensitive and intelligent manner. Each chapter is an accessible primer on interesting and relevant topics relating to disability, while bringing everything together in a carefully structured argument for social justice. There are many different ways of thinking about disability, Barton manages to acknowledge this while finding universalities for all disabled people.' Josh Hepple, disability equality activist and consultant – 'Barton shows how disability exposes us to ourselves in all our vulnerability, loneliness, incompetence and fear of disappearing. His research demonstrates how this can paradoxically lead to a deeper, more soulful humanity, so lacking in our contemporary world. The Humanity Test should be part of all therapeutic training.' Professor Emmy van Deurzen, existential psychotherapist and writer, Principal of the New School of Psychotherapy and Counselling and Director of the Existential Academy
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