Understanding Social Work Practice in Mental Health

'An excellent introduction to the main themes of social work and mental health. It provides a comprehensive summary of contemporary debates and perspectives around mental health practice. I would recommend this to all social work students' - Philip O'Hare, University of Central Lancashire. 'This book is a timely restatement of the central role of social work in mental health. In this important work, Coppock and Dunn have developed a well written and closely argued case for retaining social work skills as a key part of a truly integrated mental health system' - Terry Bamford, Director, Social Perspectives Network. This book provides an authoritative overview of mental health theory, policy and practice. Exploring the complex moral and ethical dimensions underpinning the field, the book engages with the key issues encountered by practitioners working in the modern mental health system. Using real world scenarios, case studies, and reflective exercises, it asks students to critically examine the world of mental health practice from the perspective of users of mental health services and their carers. Reflecting the core values, skills and knowledge frameworks required for professional social work qualification in the mental health context, this book will enable students to: understand mental health theory and practice as a contested arena; recognize professional differences and inter-professional strengths; tolerate uncertainty and complexity in practice; and, develop critically as reflexive mental health practitioners. Included in the text are practice dilemmas, chapter summaries, and resources to aid further study.