Howard M. Halpern received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Columbia University in 1954. He taught at Columbia and other colleges and has been a consultant, clinical psychologist, and psychotherapist at several New York colleges and clinics. He was the codirector of the New York Student Consultation Center and is a past president of the American Academy of Psychotherapists. Dr. Halpern has practiced psychotherapy in New York City for forty-eight years. His previous books include "Cutting Loose: An Adult Guide to Coming to Terms with Your Parents" and "Finally Getting It Right," He also wrote a nationally syndicated newspaper column called " On Your Own" . His appearances on national media include "Donahue," "The Today Show," "20/20," and CNN.