In today's mental health services, there is a pressing need for practitioners to place greater emphasis on working with users of services and to use skills which have a sound theoretical basis. This book focuses on evidence-based practices but reflects that in mental health, the best evidence is the personal experience of the user. This book seeks to guide, plan and suggest down-to-earth treatment ideas for individuals on a day to day basis. There are many publications which explore theoretical aspects of service delivery or provide an in-depth analysis of specific clinical interventions. However, how practitioners comprehensively amalgamate theory with their practice is often missing. This book fills that gap. Section 1: Perceptions of SMI and treatment methods - includes a unique chapter from a user which vividly illustrates the experience of mental illness, as well as an introduction to treatment methods, stress vulnerability and the diagnostic process. Section 2: Assessment - Choosing and using the assessment process is the cornerstone of effective interventions, and this section looks at how to choose and use some of the tools available. It addresses the specific skills in focussing this information towards achieving clients goals and identifying risk factors. Section 3: Interventions - This section provides chapters on a range of interventions specific to individual client needs. It reflects the often complex picture of needs which clients experience. Section 4: Cautions in Effective Treatment - This section addresses those issues which often underpin the success or failure of interventions. Its aim is to guide practitioners to reflect further on issues which surround their relationships with clients, including culture, ethical issues and professional considerations. Whether in training or in practice, you will find this book a practical, user-friendly guide to working with clients and their families. Easy to read, clearly designed, and, above all, focussing on the needs of practitioners and their clients, it is the essential handbook for practitioners in this challenging area.