First published in 1984. This is the first book in the mental health field to examine the complex phenomenon of the single-parent family from a systems perspective and to offer a clinical approach based on that expanded perspective.

This is the only book that captures the essentials of families in crisis in one volume. The editor focuses on practical issues and techniques for family counseling, including diagnosing, marital counseling, and referral services. Also discussed are gender issues, adolescents and their families, divorce mediation, and bereavement counseling. The book presents an integrated approach to family therapy, combining systemic and cognitive-behavioral theory. The diagnosis/assessment process is at the systemic level while the interventions are primarily behavioral. Professor Atwood utilizes a life cycle approach, the new direction in family therapy.

Known in academic circles as the “bible” for clinical practitioners of social work, Casework: A Psychosocial Therapy introduces readers to the basic theory and principles in the practice of psychosocial therapy, along with attention to the historical development of the approach as it has been enriched and expanded over the years. The authors’ approach reflects a balanced focus on people, their environment, and the ways in which people interact with their environment. Essential techniques including how to conduct initial interviews with clients, crisis intervention, arriving at assessments, and choosing appropriate treatment, are thoroughly explained, and often clarified with case studies and vignettes, preparing readers to assess social work clients from a variety of perspectives. The book is designed for the graduate-level student who needs to master the principles, theories, and approaches of the psychosocial approach to applied practice, but it may also be used to fit a variety of courses, including the Introduction to Social Work BSW student who is looking for supplemental information on the basics of clinical practice. Now in its fifth edition, Casework has been thoroughly revised to keep discussions clear and up to date. New material has been added throughout, including a greater variety of case studies, discussions about current topics such as the influence of ethnicity and diversity in the social work practice, changes in family life roles, changes in ideas and practice approaches, and a significantly updated bibliography for reference.