A new edition of a readable introduction to the work of the OT in the short term psychiatric setting. The emphasis throughout is on non-institutional care. It takes account of the many changes in recent years affecting the provision of care, for instance the increasing move to short-term hospital treatment and continuing care in the community.The book also helps the reader with a basic of knowledge of psychology, sociology or medical psychiatry to build on that knowledge, and link it in with an occupational therapy approach. Chapters have been written and updated by experts in the various topics covered. Every effort has also been made by the editor to make the content relevant to those working and studying in the UK as well as students from other countries. The text adopts a practical and readable approach, and addresses the needs of the therapist in the clinical situation, as well as covering purely theoretical aspects.