Kevin Gournay – författare

One of the commonest of the phobias, agoraphobia is also one of the most difficult to treat and is often ill-understood. Originally published in 1989, this valuable review of the effectiveness of various approaches to agoraphobia at the time brings together contributors from all the major mental health professions.The topics dealt with range widely, from discussions of the nature of the syndrome, through assessments of the effectiveness of exposure (behavioural) treatment and drug treatment, to an analysis of the part played by sex-role stereotyping and social factors in treatment failure and in treatment outcome generally. The contributors’ accounts of the nature and treatment of this crippling problem will be of particular interest to those specializing in the research and treatment of agoraphobia. Today it can be read in its historical perspective.

'Offering wisdom and understanding, written with sensitivity, this book has much practical help within its pages for a loss like that feels like few others' SandsWhether it happens before or shortly after birth, the loss of a baby brings overwhelming grief and parents often struggle to access the professional help they need.In this new edition of their compassionate and practical book, Professor Kevin Gournay - who himself lost a child to stillbirth - and distinguished midwife Dr Brenda Ashcroft offer understanding of what it means to go through this bereavement, and healing advice on how to make sense of it. They give important information about parents' rights, and cover such difficult topics as post mortems and inquests. The book considers parents' reactions, not least feelings of anger, as well as offering help for, and insight into, the relationship difficulties that often follow the loss of a baby. There is support for anyone who might be experiencing anxiety or depression, advice on how other children in the family might be affected, and possible prevention and treatment for future pregnancies.Sympathetic, expert and warmly supportive of any bereaved parent, this book also provides a guide to good practice for professionals in all relevant fields.

Clinical Management in Mental Health Services is a practical guide to the day to day operational management of mental health teams. It explores both the theoretical aspects of management plus strategies for dealing with the wide range of management issues faced by managers working in mental health. It looks at issues such as leading a multidisciplinary team, Communication and Public Relations, the importance of clinical supervision, evidence-based practice, and quality assurance. It addresses the issue of workload management, clinical information management, how to plan a budget and how to manage stress.

OCD is thought to affect up to one million people in the UK, and an estimated three million in the USA. Listed among the top 10 most debilitating illnesses by the World Health Organisation, OCD can have a devastating effect on work, social life and personal relationships. Professional treatment can be hard to access, and in addition many people are too ashamed of their problem to seek help. Coping with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder offers expert advice and a thorough self-help programme based on solid scientific evidence.

Schizophrenia is traditionally difficult to define and commonly misunderstood, but involves problems differentiating inner experiences and perceptions to everyday external reality. This book provides up-to-date information about changing views on schizophrenia and how it can be treated. As well as exploring classic symptoms such as hallucinations and hearing voices, it provides strong practical suggestions for dealing with the mental and emotional distress involved. Topics include: History of name and diagnostic categories; Myths and facts about schizophrenia; Medication; Therapy (especially CBT); Professional help; Diet and exercise; Social support; Work and leisure; Dealing with stress in the family; Stigma, discrimination and educating the public.