Arts Therapies – serie

The field of expressive arts is closely tied to the work of therapeutic change. As well as being beneficial for the individual or small group, expressive arts therapy has the potential for a much wider impact, to inspire social action and bring about social change.The book's contributors explore the transformative power of the arts therapies in areas stricken by conflict, political unrest, poverty or natural disaster and discuss how and why expressive arts works. They look at the ways it can be used to engage community consciousness and improve social conditions whilst taking into account the issues that arise within different contexts and populations. Leading expressive arts therapy practitioners give inspiring accounts of their work, from using poetry as a tool in trauma intervention with Iraqi survivors of war and torture, to setting up storytelling workshops to aid the integration of Ethiopian Jewish immigrants in Israel.Offering visionary perspectives on the role of the arts in inspiring change at the community or social level, this is essential reading for students and practitioners of creative and expressive arts therapies, as well as psychotherapists, counsellors, artists and others working to effect social change.

Art and the therapeutic uses of art provide older adults with valuable ways in which to express and share their feelings, needs and fears, and with a resource for coping with life's major changes. This practical book is filled with step-by-step exercises for art therapists and other professionals to use in work with older adults, either individually or in groups.The author provides brief, imaginative warm-ups, which encourage participants to become more at ease expressing themselves creatively. She offers ideas for engaging and innovative creative projects across a range of media, including art, music, movement, poetry and creative writing, all of which can be adapted, personalised or combined to meet the particular needs of individual participants. Points to consider when working with this client group are explored, and case study examples, with participants' artwork, are included throughout.Appropriate for use with all relatively able older adults, including those with depression, anxiety or in the early stages of dementia, this will be an invaluable tool for art therapists as well as counsellors, psychotherapists, social workers and carers.

Breaking new ground in the areas of attachment and child development, Sue Jennings introduces the concept of 'Neuro-Dramatic-Play' exploring the sensory experiences that take place between mother and child during pregnancy and the first few months after birth. She explains how this interaction, that is essentially 'dramatic' in nature, is of crucial importance for the infant to develop a healthy brain, strong attachments and future resilience.Based on sound experience and observation, this book consolidates current theories of neuroscience, attachment and therapeutic intervention and challenges commonly held psychoanalytic ideas of child development. By expanding on the often narrow view of what is understood by attachment, this book makes a strong case for early years inclusion of play and arts therapies. Neuro-Dramatic-Play is also discussed in relation to fostering and adoption, teenagers and young adults, and children with developmental or cognitive disabilities.This accessible text will interest all therapists and practitioners who work with children and teenagers, including child psychotherapists, psychologists, social workers, paediatric and perinatal nurses, paediatricians, child psychiatrists and play and arts therapists, and post-graduate students.

Including contributions from some of the leading art therapists in Britain, this important book addresses the key issues in the theory and practice of art therapy. The fundamental significance of the art in art therapy practice permeates the book, close attention being paid by several writers to the art-making process and the aesthetic responses of therapist and client. Other authors explore the tensions between art and therapy, images and speech, subjectivity and objectivity, arguing that the dynamic interplay between these elements is inherent to the practice of art therapy. The role of containment is another theme that is explored by contributors in a variety of ways to highlight the importance not only of the therapeutic containment of the client by the therapist, but also the containment of the therapist. The physical contexts of the session, within an art room and within the larger working environment, are identified as important arenas where conflict and tension is experienced and must be explored if art therapy is to continue to develop.

Recent research has shown that art therapy can be particularly effective for children with autism and related communication disorders. The extensive range of symptoms experienced by autistic people makes them extremely individual in presentation, so any treatment used must be tailored to a range of varying needs. Art Therapy with Children on the Autistic Spectrum presents a new model of practice, which primarily focuses on communication difficulties. The authors describe how negative behaviours and subsequent tension may be alleviated when the autistic child is involved in interactive art making with the therapist.The book is divided into three parts: the first part explores art making processes and art work, with an emphasis on how art can be specifically communicative. A history of autism is presented within the therapeutic context. The second part challenges existing methods of practice within art therapy and considers the most appropriate approaches to treating autistic children. The last part discusses research that lead to the formulation of this specific model - methodology and assessment interventions are analysed, as well as the ongoing development of appropriate assessment instruments. Case studies of art therapy with individual autistic children demonstrate the use of the model and the outcomes. Throughout the book, it is emphasised how art therapy works as an integral part of overall management and treatment approaches to autism. It will be of particular interest to all those professionals working with autistic children and specialists in other communication disorders.

Practical Approaches to Dramatherapy is derived from the authors' experiences of working with dramatherapy in a range of different situations. It focuses on the flexibility of the applications of dramatherapeutic principles. The book provides a comprehensive account of the history, theory and practice of drama and its therapeutic use. The authors explain the shape of a session, how dramatherapy works, and how it can be interpreted via myth, symbol and psychological theory. Work with individuals and groups is described, as are sessions with masks, improvisation, and use of scripts. The reader is encouraged to incorporate dramatherapy approaches into a variety of existing ways of working: for example, in socials skills groups, assertiveness training and anger management. Highlighting the potential scope of dramatherapy and providing practical examples and advice, Practical Approaches to Dramatherapy extends the boundaries of dramatherapy practice.

'The author of this book is a speech and language therapist, and is still practising in the health service, which gives her advice practical value. If all writers followed the principles in her book their readers, in whatever capacity, should owe Ms Williams a debt of gratitude.'- Physiotherapy Journal'... the book is written in a user-friendly format and flows in a logical way. It provides very practical ideas and advice, covering all areas of written information. It would be ideal as an introductory text for novice practitioners or those wanting to update their knowledge about standards in providing written information. This book would be useful for any department as a reference book for all practitioners at any level.'- British Journal of Occupational Therapy'This text offers clear and concise advice on the development and use of writing skills. The style is one of numerous checklists, applied to various writing contexts as a practical aid to clear written communication this book would be extremely beneficial in a healthcare setting.'- Journal of Community Nursing'... well presented and easy to read. I think it would assist practitioners from different backgrounds and would be particularly useful for students. It is a good aid to effective writing which could be referred to whenever needed.'- Rostrum'... this book contains comprehensive information and practical guidance on the wide range of writing skills that health professionals need in order to be effective practitioners and communicators. The content is relevant to dietitians and covers many writing skills they need.'- Dietetians Today'Written by an experienced lecturer and writer in communication skills who is a therapist, this book contains comprehensive information and practical guidance on the wide range of writing skillls that health professionals need in order to be more effective practitioners and communicators. The content is relevant to dietitians and covers many of the writing skills they need. Most dietitians would find this book a very useful resource. It could be used either as a reference guide to "dip into" when asked to write something for the first time, or by acting upon the action points to improve existing writing skills.'- Dietetics TodayWriting Skills in Practice presents a comprehensive overview of the development of writing skills for both students and practitioners in health care, offering useful information on all the main areas of writing practice in one volume.The first part introduces newly qualified professionals to the skills of clinical record keeping, report writing and supplying clear written information for clients. The section on teaching and learning provides hints for students on note-taking, structuring essays and writing up research projects. Health professionals and experienced social care practitioners undertaking an educational role will also find advice on preparing materials for teaching, setting questions and assessing students' work. Practitioners who wish to further their professional development by publishing their work will find a range of topics covered in the final section, from the initial stages of developing an idea, to presenting articles and manuscripts for publication.Clearly laid out with summary points, practical activities and checklists, Writing Skills in Practice makes relevant information easily accessible for the busy health professional.

Arguing that the profession of art therapy has its roots in the studio environment, Catherine Moon proposes that it is now time to reclaim these roots, and make art once again central to art therapy. She suggests that there has been a tendency for art therapy not merely to interact with and be enriched by other perspectives - psychological, social, anthropological and transpersonal - but to be subsumed by them. For this reason she makes a clear distinction between using art in one's practice of therapy, and working from an art-based model. This book presents a model of art therapy where the products and processes of art constitute the core of the model, rather than serving as the impetus for adaptations of other theories of counselling or therapy. It addresses how an arts-based approach can inform the therapist in all aspects of practice, from the conception of the work and the attempt to understand client needs to interacting with clients and communicating with others about the profession of art therapy.Integrated into the book are stories about the work of art therapists, art therapy students and those who seek help in art therapy, presenting the theory behind studio art therapy and bringing it to life. Moon believes that the arts have something unique to offer to the therapeutic process which distinguish the arts therapies from other therapeutic professions. This book is a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the possibilities inherent in the therapeutic use of the arts.

Edith Kramer is one of the pioneers in the field of art therapy, known and respected throughout the world. This collection of papers reflects her lifetime of work in this field, showing how her thoughts and practice have developed over the years. She considers a wide spectrum of issues, covering art, art therapy, society, ethology and clinical practice and placing art therapy in its social and historical context. Drawing on her very considerable personal experience as an art therapist, Kramer illustrates her conviction that art making is central to practice and cautions against making words primary and art secondary in art therapy.Art as Therapy offers a rare insight into the personal development of one of the world's leading art therapists and the development of art therapy as a profession. It will make fascinating reading for anyone interested in art therapy.

Breaking new ground in the areas of attachment and child development, Sue Jennings introduces the concept of 'Neuro-Dramatic-Play' exploring the sensory experiences that take place between mother and child during pregnancy and the first few months after birth. She explains how this interaction, that is essentially 'dramatic' in nature, is of crucial importance for the infant to develop a healthy brain, strong attachments and future resilience.Based on sound experience and observation, this book consolidates current theories of neuroscience, attachment and therapeutic intervention and challenges commonly held psychoanalytic ideas of child development. By expanding on the often narrow view of what is understood by attachment, this book makes a strong case for early years inclusion of play and arts therapies. Neuro-Dramatic-Play is also discussed in relation to fostering and adoption, teenagers and young adults, and children with developmental or cognitive disabilities.This accessible text will interest all therapists and practitioners who work with children and teenagers, including child psychotherapists, psychologists, social workers, paediatric and perinatal nurses, paediatricians, child psychiatrists and play and arts therapists, and post-graduate students.

The field of expressive arts is closely tied to the work of therapeutic change. As well as being beneficial for the individual or small group, expressive arts therapy has the potential for a much wider impact, to inspire social action and bring about social change.The book's contributors explore the transformative power of the arts therapies in areas stricken by conflict, political unrest, poverty or natural disaster and discuss how and why expressive arts works. They look at the ways it can be used to engage community consciousness and improve social conditions whilst taking into account the issues that arise within different contexts and populations. Leading expressive arts therapy practitioners give inspiring accounts of their work, from using poetry as a tool in trauma intervention with Iraqi survivors of war and torture, to setting up storytelling workshops to aid the integration of Ethiopian Jewish immigrants in Israel.Offering visionary perspectives on the role of the arts in inspiring change at the community or social level, this is essential reading for students and practitioners of creative and expressive arts therapies, as well as psychotherapists, counsellors, artists and others working to effect social change.

Art and the therapeutic uses of art provide older adults with valuable ways in which to express and share their feelings, needs and fears, and with a resource for coping with life's major changes. This practical book is filled with step-by-step exercises for art therapists and other professionals to use in work with older adults, either individually or in groups.The author provides brief, imaginative warm-ups, which encourage participants to become more at ease expressing themselves creatively. She offers ideas for engaging and innovative creative projects across a range of media, including art, music, movement, poetry and creative writing, all of which can be adapted, personalised or combined to meet the particular needs of individual participants. Points to consider when working with this client group are explored, and case study examples, with participants' artwork, are included throughout.Appropriate for use with all relatively able older adults, including those with depression, anxiety or in the early stages of dementia, this will be an invaluable tool for art therapists as well as counsellors, psychotherapists, social workers and carers.

Bonnie Meekums presents creative group work strategies and techniques for professionals working with women who have experienced child sexual abuse. The practical strategies have been developed from an understanding of the complex process of recovery, and are informed by the voices of women who have been abused in childhood themselves.The book is divided into two parts. The first looks at the theoretical issues, exploring the nature of abuse and patterns of recovery and also considers the debate about `false memory syndrome'. The second part of the book presents practical group strategies, detailing a full sequence of creative exercises for the sessions. The author outlines how to set up the group, how to establish the group and how to manage group endings. The material in the book has been successfully trialled in a variety of professional settings, including a specialist multi-modal arts therapy program with a group of fourteen women.Creative Group Therapy for Women Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse will enable professionals and students to understand and support women through the difficult process of recovery from childhood sexual abuse.

Practical Approaches to Dramatherapy is derived from the authors' experiences of working with dramatherapy in a range of different situations. It focuses on the flexibility of the applications of dramatherapeutic principles. The book provides a comprehensive account of the history, theory and practice of drama and its therapeutic use. The authors explain the shape of a session, how dramatherapy works, and how it can be interpreted via myth, symbol and psychological theory. Work with individuals and groups is described, as are sessions with masks, improvisation, and use of scripts. The reader is encouraged to incorporate dramatherapy approaches into a variety of existing ways of working: for example, in socials skills groups, assertiveness training and anger management. Highlighting the potential scope of dramatherapy and providing practical examples and advice, Practical Approaches to Dramatherapy extends the boundaries of dramatherapy practice.

Diana Milia examines the effect of art therapy interventions with clients who harm their bodies. Her starting point is the definition of self-mutilation itself. In many cultures, self-mutilation is incorporated in sacrificial rituals as a means of healing the whole society. Body modifications such as scarification and tattooing are used in rites of purification, healing and maturity. Self-mutilation may also be incorporated in performance art.Diana Milia draws out these aspects of self-mutilation, informing them with theories from psychoanalytical literature, to explain how art therapy can help patients who self-harm. She argues that using art as intervention supports the self-mutilating person's preference for ritualized symbolic action and their need to create transitional objects. She describes artmaking in terms of symbolic modification of the self-mutilating client's own body, with the ultimate goal of self-transformation. The creative process itself provides an arena for the discharge and mastery of aggressive impulses, and develops self-control, self-esteem, and symbolic capacities, all of which are crucial in the treatment of self-mutilating behaviors.Demonstrating how these theories can be implemented in practice, Milia then describes examples from her clinical experience, and includes extended case studies. She analyzes art therapy sessions and the process and content of artwork. Her book is practical; it also extends our understanding of the concept of self-mutilation and how best it may be addressed.

It was the author's own experience of fictional autobiography that led Celia Hunt serendipiditously to appreciate that such writing could be therapeutic. She noticed, for example, and this was subsequently echoed in many of her students' experiences, a beneficial psychological change - and increased inner freedom, greater psychic flexability (perhaps the key to creativity and psychological health), a stronger sense of personal identity. This book tells us about the hows and whys of such therapeutic change.'- AutoBiographyJournal.com'A critical examination of the therapeutic possibilities of autobiographical fiction that draws on perspectives from both psychoanalytic and literary studies.'- The Journal Of Critical Psychology, Counselling and PsychotherapyTherapeutic Dimensions of Autobiography in Creative Writing brings together theory and practice from psychoanalysis, literary and cultural studies and the growing field of creative writing studies. It highlights the importance of autobiographical writing not only as an opening into fiction writing, but also as a powerful therapeutic tool.Celia Hunt discusses how autobiographical fiction can be used in therapeutic work by art therapists, psychotherapists and creative writing tutors, as well as in personal development by writers of any kind. She draws up guidelines for a successful course on autobiography and creative writing, and presents case studies and practical ideas for writing about the self.She shows how writing autobiographical fiction can help people to explore significant events and relationships in their lives. Finding a writing voice in this way clarifies and strengthens the writer's sense of identity, leading to a fuller realisation of his or her potential in life.

Within the last decade music therapists have developed their work with the elderly and with people with dementia. Drawing on the diverse research and considerable personal experience of contributors from around the world, Music Therapy in Dementia Care takes a comprehensive look at music therapy as a means of improving memory, health and identity in those suffering from dementia - particularly the Alzheimer's type. It explores the issues which may arise in working with this group, such as coping with wartime memories, and shows how music therapy facilitates and enables communication through sound and movement. This fresh, original book is an interesting and informative read for the caregivers and families of dementia sufferers, and an essential resource for music therapists and all those involved in psychogeriatry.

The phrase 'art therapy' was first coined in 1942, but Susan Hogan's study begins in the latter part of the eighteenth century, when the arts were used as part of the 'moral treatment' method. In the nineteenth century psychological and anthropological writings come under scrutiny, in particular the way in which symbolism in art and language was linked to theories of degeneration and assumptions about the hierarchy of races. The author explores in detail psychoanalytic theories of symbolism, the development of a 'psychopathological school' and analytic (Jungian) psychology.Susan Hogan's book is informative, well researched and entertaining. As well as providing an authoritative history of art therapy, it covers such diverse topics as the philosophy of art therapy, the way attitudes to insanity have changed, the role of art therapy in the context of post-war rehabilitation and the treatment of tuberculosis patients, Surrealism, and Britain's first therapeutic community. It is an invaluable resource for art therapists, and an interesting, informative read for anyone interested in art history or the history of ideas.

Arguing that the profession of art therapy has its roots in the studio environment, Catherine Moon proposes that it is now time to reclaim these roots, and make art once again central to art therapy. She suggests that there has been a tendency for art therapy not merely to interact with and be enriched by other perspectives - psychological, social, anthropological and transpersonal - but to be subsumed by them. For this reason she makes a clear distinction between using art in one's practice of therapy, and working from an art-based model. This book presents a model of art therapy where the products and processes of art constitute the core of the model, rather than serving as the impetus for adaptations of other theories of counselling or therapy. It addresses how an arts-based approach can inform the therapist in all aspects of practice, from the conception of the work and the attempt to understand client needs to interacting with clients and communicating with others about the profession of art therapy.Integrated into the book are stories about the work of art therapists, art therapy students and those who seek help in art therapy, presenting the theory behind studio art therapy and bringing it to life. Moon believes that the arts have something unique to offer to the therapeutic process which distinguish the arts therapies from other therapeutic professions. This book is a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the possibilities inherent in the therapeutic use of the arts.

Recent research has shown that art therapy can be particularly effective for children with autism and related communication disorders. The extensive range of symptoms experienced by autistic people makes them extremely individual in presentation, so any treatment used must be tailored to a range of varying needs. Art Therapy with Children on the Autistic Spectrum presents a new model of practice, which primarily focuses on communication difficulties. The authors describe how negative behaviours and subsequent tension may be alleviated when the autistic child is involved in interactive art making with the therapist.The book is divided into three parts: the first part explores art making processes and art work, with an emphasis on how art can be specifically communicative. A history of autism is presented within the therapeutic context. The second part challenges existing methods of practice within art therapy and considers the most appropriate approaches to treating autistic children. The last part discusses research that lead to the formulation of this specific model - methodology and assessment interventions are analysed, as well as the ongoing development of appropriate assessment instruments. Case studies of art therapy with individual autistic children demonstrate the use of the model and the outcomes. Throughout the book, it is emphasised how art therapy works as an integral part of overall management and treatment approaches to autism. It will be of particular interest to all those professionals working with autistic children and specialists in other communication disorders.

Supervision is growing in importance in all professions as a means of focusing on the personal and vocational skills of the supervisee, as well as a means of supporting them in their work. In this book Mooli Lahad argues that the most effective method of supervision uses both right and left hemispheres of the brain, the intuitive and logical. He encourages the use of metaphors, images and stories to enrich theoretical knowledge and improve our understanding of the processes of therapy and support.In Creative Supervision Lahad introduces techniques, drawn from the expressive arts therapies, which can be employed during a supervision to release information from the creative hemisphere of the brain. These techniques include storytelling, role-playing, guided fantasy, imaginary dialogues, letter-writing, drawing, and the use of colours and shapes. Case examples show how the techniques were used, and how they provided insight into problematic relationships with clients. Drawing from his experiences of working in the aftermath of tragedy in Israel, Northern Ireland and the former Yugoslavia, Lahad examines how to supervise a crisis intervention team: he also focuses on self-supervision.Combining humanistic, creative and practical approaches, Creative Supervision gives a fresh, new perspective which will inspire supervisors to re-think their practice.

In a world where natural, social and political disasters are a daily reality, the therapist is increasingly called upon to find rapid and effective methods of treating the survivors of trauma, including sexual abuse, torture, war-related trauma, addiction, depression and bereavement. The contributors to this book provide persuasive evidence of how psychodrama can safely be used to create paths of change for even the most severe traumatization and they also discuss the possible transmission of trauma patterns across generations. Research following World War II, neurobiological studies and other recent research into PTSD has shown that many trauma symptoms are unconscious, non-verbal, right-brained experiences which cannot be accessed through talk therapy. Psychodrama creates a place to act out unprocessed trauma within the containment of therapy, in order to stop the obsessive repetition of the past.Psychodrama with Trauma Survivors documents the impact of trauma and explores the development of treatment, providing integrated models of experiential treatment for clinicians to use. It is an invaluable resource for those interested in psychodrama and those working with trauma survivors.

Edith Kramer is one of the pioneers in the field of art therapy, known and respected throughout the world. This collection of papers reflects her lifetime of work in this field, showing how her thoughts and practice have developed over the years. She considers a wide spectrum of issues, covering art, art therapy, society, ethology and clinical practice and placing art therapy in its social and historical context. Drawing on her very considerable personal experience as an art therapist, Kramer illustrates her conviction that art making is central to practice and cautions against making words primary and art secondary in art therapy.Art as Therapy offers a rare insight into the personal development of one of the world's leading art therapists and the development of art therapy as a profession. It will make fascinating reading for anyone interested in art therapy.

In this classic text Art Robbins explores the role of the art therapist in integrating aesthetics and psychodynamics into the therapeutic process. He argues that psychological phenomena have their aesthetic counterparts, and that incorporating these elements facilitates the therapeutic process. The artist in the therapist responds to the patient's use of colour, space, form and energy; the therapist uses his or her artist's reaction to ascertain the psychodynamics of the piece.Drawing on his extensive experience as a psychoanalyst, psychologist, art therapist and sculptor, Robbins weaves together object relations theory and principles of art to create a more cohesive understanding of therapeutic treatment. Now reissued by Jessica Kingsley Publishers, The Artist as Therapist integrates art and psychology and has profound implications for all those working in these fields.

Colleagues interested in the process of play therapy...will find much to enjoy and stimulate their thinking in this book. It is easy to read without being simplistic, and offers a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and delights of working with troubled children.'- Clinical Child Psychology and PsychiatryThe seven case studies in this book provide a detailed and absorbing account of play therapy undertaken with children and an adolescent, all of whom experienced emotional problems and/or varying forms of abuse. Through the narrative form of the individual case studies, details of the children's therapeutic progress are given, which are then used to inform discussion of wider practical and theoretical issues. These issues include communicating with young children, working with silent children, restoring a child's normal developmental trajectory within play therapy, and the roles of race, gender and power in play therapy.Balancing practice and theory, Case Studies in Non-directive Play Therapy will be of interest to experienced practitioners and students alike.

Including contributions from some of the leading art therapists in Britain, this important book addresses the key issues in the theory and practice of art therapy. The fundamental significance of the art in art therapy practice permeates the book, close attention being paid by several writers to the art-making process and the aesthetic responses of therapist and client. Other authors explore the tensions between art and therapy, images and speech, subjectivity and objectivity, arguing that the dynamic interplay between these elements is inherent to the practice of art therapy. The role of containment is another theme that is explored by contributors in a variety of ways to highlight the importance not only of the therapeutic containment of the client by the therapist, but also the containment of the therapist. The physical contexts of the session, within an art room and within the larger working environment, are identified as important arenas where conflict and tension is experienced and must be explored if art therapy is to continue to develop.

The author of this book is a speech and language therapist, and is still practising in the health service, which gives her advice practical value. If all writers followed the principles in her book their readers, in whatever capacity, should owe Ms Williams a debt of gratitude.'- Physiotherapy Journal'... the book is written in a user-friendly format and flows in a logical way. It provides very practical ideas and advice, covering all areas of written information. It would be ideal as an introductory text for novice practitioners or those wanting to update their knowledge about standards in providing written information. This book would be useful for any department as a reference book for all practitioners at any level.'- British Journal of Occupational Therapy'This text offers clear and concise advice on the development and use of writing skills. The style is one of numerous checklists, applied to various writing contexts as a practical aid to clear written communication this book would be extremely beneficial in a healthcare setting.'- Journal of Community Nursing'... well presented and easy to read. I think it would assist practitioners from different backgrounds and would be particularly useful for students. It is a good aid to effective writing which could be referred to whenever needed.'- Rostrum'... this book contains comprehensive information and practical guidance on the wide range of writing skills that health professionals need in order to be effective practitioners and communicators. The content is relevant to dietitians and covers many writing skills they need.'- Dietetians Today'Written by an experienced lecturer and writer in communication skills who is a therapist, this book contains comprehensive information and practical guidance on the wide range of writing skillls that health professionals need in order to be more effective practitioners and communicators. The content is relevant to dietitians and covers many of the writing skills they need. Most dietitians would find this book a very useful resource. It could be used either as a reference guide to "dip into" when asked to write something for the first time, or by acting upon the action points to improve existing writing skills.'- Dietetics TodayWriting Skills in Practice presents a comprehensive overview of the development of writing skills for both students and practitioners in health care, offering useful information on all the main areas of writing practice in one volume.The first part introduces newly qualified professionals to the skills of clinical record keeping, report writing and supplying clear written information for clients. The section on teaching and learning provides hints for students on note-taking, structuring essays and writing up research projects. Health professionals and experienced social care practitioners undertaking an educational role will also find advice on preparing materials for teaching, setting questions and assessing students' work. Practitioners who wish to further their professional development by publishing their work will find a range of topics covered in the final section, from the initial stages of developing an idea, to presenting articles and manuscripts for publication.Clearly laid out with summary points, practical activities and checklists, Writing Skills in Practice makes relevant information easily accessible for the busy health professional.