Mental health issues continue to be high on international health care agendas. There are no simple solutions to the challenges posed by people exhibiting mental disorders. In this dynamic area of nursing, there are many changes taking place, with the continuing provision of care for mentally ill people within the community and mental health nurses assuming greater responsibility for managing therapeutic interventions. Advanced Clinical Practice in Mental Health Nursing reflects those areas where nurses are assuming greater responsibility at a practice level. The text tackles conceptual, professional and clinical issues from an international perspective, linking together similar trends in the USA, Canada, Europe and Australia. The text is divided into three sections: the context of practice; approaches to practice; and clinical issues. The first section concentrates on the move from patient to consumer of mental health services and the implications this has had on practice. The second section examines therapeutic skills and the therapeutic alliance between nurse and client. The last section examines the current challenges with specific client groups: the depressed, elderly, children and adolescents, and clients with personality disorders.

I would recommend [this book] to all mental health nurses wanting to make a difference. Martin Ward, Health Service Journal 1999 A fascinating and challenging collection of perspectives on clinical, theoretical and policy issues facing mental health nurses, matched with inspiring descriptions of innovative in-practice solutions. Overall, this is an inspiring and thought-provoking volume for all and any practitioners. Tracey Frudd, Mental Health Care, 1999 Overall, the book draws on a range of international expertise to provide an eclectic view of the bio-psychosocial approach to mental health problems. It should be compulsory reading for all nurses because it brings together consumer, professional and academic perspectives on mental health nursing practice. Roy Riseborough, Nursing Standard, 1999