Theoretical Perspectives for Direct Social Work Practice: A Generalist-eclectic Approach

"Finally, a social work practice text that makes a difference! This is the book that you have wished for but could never find. Although similar to texts that cover a range of practice theories and approaches to clinical practice, this book clearly has a social work frame of reference and a social work identity.
--Gayla Rogers, Dean of the Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary

The major focus of this second edition is the same; to provide an overview of theories, models, and therapies for direct social work practice, including systems theory, attachment theory, cognitive-behavioral theory, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, the crisis intervention model, and many more. However, this popular textbook goes beyond a mere survey of such theories. It also provides a framework for integrating the use of each theory with central social work principles and values, as well as with the artistic elements of practice.

This second edition has been fully updated and revised to include:


• A new chapter on Relational Theory, and newly-rewritten chapters by new authors on Cognitive-Behavioral Theory, Existential Theory, and Wraparound Services
• New critique of the Empirically Supported Treatment (EST) movement
• Updated information on the movement toward eclecticism in counseling and psychotherapy
• A refined conceptualization of the editors' generalist-eclectic approach

Nick Coady, PhD, is professor and dean, Faculty of Social Work (FSW), Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU), Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.

Peter Lehmann PhD, LCSW is a retired Professor from the University of Texas at Arlington. His primary areas of research are in solution-focused brief therapy and batterer intervention programs.