Mental health problems are ubiquitous in contemporary society. All social workers, whether in specialist or generalist settings, need specific knowledge, skills and values to work effectively with people with mental health problems. This book emphasises the importance of appreciating the lived experience of mental illness, and of establishing partnerships based on incorporating a consumer perspective into all mental health work. It also emphasises the healing potential in relationships between consumers, carers and service providers. This is a thorough introduction to social work practice in specialist mental health settings as well as in other fields of practice in the community. It provides a knowledge base for practice with people with the most commonly encountered mental health problems. It offers a practical guide to assessment, case management, family work, community work, and the application of the principles of partnership to work with individuals and their families, as well as multidisciplinary teams and agencies.

About the Author

Robert Bland is Professor in the School of Social Work and Human Services at the University of Queensland. Noel Renouf is Senior Lecturer at the School of Social Work and Social Policy at La Trobe University. Ann Tullgren is a social worker who has suffered of mental health problems.