Tony Humphreys

Dr Tony Humphreys is an Irish consultant clinical psychologist who writes on human behaviour, education and relationships. He is known for The Power of Negative Thinking (1996) and for twelve further titles on self-esteem, family life and leadership. His books appear in Ireland and abroad, and support his work as a national and international speaker.

Tony Humphreys began his career in clinical psychology in the State Psychiatric and Psychological Services in England and Ireland. In 1990, he entered private practice in Ireland, working with individuals, couples, families, schools and community groups. He later became Director of three National University of Ireland courses at University College Cork and at an outreach centre in Dublin.

His early books addressed family life and the care of children. Self Esteem, The Key to Your Child’s Future (1993) examined how a child’s self-image shapes learning. He wrote that “the self-esteem of children is central to their educational development.” Leaving the Nest explored family stages and the search for individuality.

All About Children used a question-and-answer format to guide parents through daily concerns. He later produced A Different Kind of Discipline, which presented discipline as a form of mutual respect rather than control, and A Different Kind of Teacher, which focused on school climate and the self-esteem of teachers and students.

The Power of Negative Thinking (1996) set out his view of defensive responses as protective and creative. He wrote that such responses should not be removed until emotional safety is present. Whose Life Are You Living continued this theme by examining social labels and the loss of autonomy. Work and Worth examined the link between identity and employment and described how work can take over the personal life.

In later years he addressed illness, leadership and relationships. The Compassionate Intentions of Illness explored the psychological meaning of illness, while Leadership with Consciousness (2011) examined the role of unconscious processes in economic and social life. Relationship Relationship Relationship (2010) and Myself, My Partner studied adult connection. Understanding Teenagers (2012) and Finding Sexual Realness expanded his work with young people and adults.

Dr Tony Humphreys also co-founded the Irish Association of Relationship Mentors and remains a member of the Psychological Society of Ireland.

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