Böcker i Norton Professional Book-serien

These families must cope with a variety of problems, such as the heavy and often unpredictable demands of their ill member, the pain of lost dreams and expectations, and the bureaucratic complexity of the mental health system. However, with proper guidance and counseling, they can become the professional's most valuable allies in treatment of patients with schizophrenia and major affective disorders.This is a practical, psychoeducational approach, with special emphasis on the "nuts and bolts" of counseling families. The authors show how the family clinician can develop a cooperative, respectful relationship with family members, educating them about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of such illnesses as schizophrenia, helping them develop strategies to deal with both day-to-day problems and the long-term implications of the disease, and offering emotional support as needed.This book will be invaluable to all mental health professionals working with the chronically mentally ill and their families in hospitals, clinics and outpatient settings. Both professionals and trainees will find here a new model of compassionate care, essential as families are enlisted as allies in the treatment of chronic mental illness.

'This book will be helpful not only to members and students in Avanta Network and those acquainted with my work, but to all those seeking new dimensions to their lives. It is an important first step. It generously and authentically documents the general method, process and outcomes of five reconstructions, one in great detail....I feel pleased and honored that I have been a midwife to what is turning out to be a very important contribution in developing guidelines toward becoming more fully human.'--Virginia Satir

Autism's core symptoms surface as problems with social interaction, restrictive interests and abnormal language development, and they often appear quite differently in various children. Parents of children diagnosed with autism are often overwhelmed. They experience a range of feelings that may include denial, wishful thinking, and desperation. Sometimes they pursue unproven or useless treatments and interventions. This book will help professionals who consult with parents to understand autism's symptoms and to provide proactive guidance. It will also give parents knowledge to understand more fully the problems associated with autism and make decisions that help their child develop to be as fully happy and engaged as possible.