Spaulding et al. compellingly argue that the adoption of a new, integrated model of treatment is long overdue, particularly when dealing with severe mental disorders. This book provides a framework that is at once theory-driven, based in the cumulative findings of outcome research with the severely mentally ill, and firmly grounded in the authors' long history of work in the field. Presented is a truly pragmatic approach that, if successfully applied, promises to considerably enhance service provision to this challenging population. I strongly recommend this book for mental health policymakers, clinicians, and researchers. Graduate psychology students, especially those in psychopathology or clinical interventions courses, will find the book's integration of theory and sound practice guidance to be of immense utility.--Morgan T. Sammons, PhD, Mental Health Department, Naval Medical Clinic, Annapolis, Maryland
Every student, scientist, and practitioner who wants to know where psychiatric rehabilitation is headed needs to read this book. The authors, national leaders in psychopathology and rehabilitation, combine their intellectually varied backgrounds to bring clarity to the confusion and disagreement that characterize current practices in psychiatric rehabilitation. The book's remarkably satisfying synthesis provides the scientific foundation for an action agenda for 21st century psychiatric rehabilitation. A biosystemic paradigm is used to give logical coherence to clinical assessment, formulation, and rehabilitation planning. So comprehensive is the authors' approach that they are able to conclude with a detailed algorithm for treatment and rehabilitation of schizophrenia. This book is an invaluable source of scholarship, clinical insight, and practical advice for anyone who seeks to understand disabling mental illness and to improve the lives of those who face its daily challenge. As a text, it will be suitable for graduate students in psychology or rehabilitation and for psychiatric residents in specialized programs in community psychiatry.--Morris Bell, PhD, ABPP, Yale University School of Medicine and Department of Veterans Affairs, Rehabilitation Research and Development Service
This is one of the handful of books that should be on the desk of every mental health professional, researcher, administrator, and advocate concerned with understanding people with severe psychiatric disabilities and providing effective interventions. The authors provide a unique conceptual foundation for rehabilitation that draws on empirical research on biological, behavioral, and social factors. Their comprehensive, unified approach combines rigorous analysis with humanitarian understanding. Students and professionals alike will gain from this book not only a conceptual structure on which to build specific skills, but also an understanding of what it takes to create, implement, and lead cost-effective rehabilitation programs. Highly recommended as a text in graduate and upper-division courses in psychology, psychiatry, rehabilitation, social work, and mental health administration.--Gordon L. Paul, PhD, Department of Psychology, University of Houston
