A Psychologist's Proactive Guide to Managed Mental Health Care

"The key word is in the title of this important book -- 'proactive.' The editors have put together contributions from leading psychologists to lay out a forward-looking, affirmative plan not just to cope with but to take full advantage of current and future changes in the structure of mental health delivery systems. Based on empirically supported approaches, this provocative and optimistic collection offers strategies that exploit clinical psychology's unique strengths as a science-based profession with built-in accountability -- and there is no question that increased accountability is demanded, and rightly so, in today's and tomorrow's managed care environment. This book should be read, studied, and discussed not only by practitioners but by faculty and students in clinical training programs."
—Gerald C. Davison, Ph.D.
University of Southern California

"Kent and Hersen have done an excellent job of bringing together chapters that present a realistic look at managed behavioral healthcare and the challenges and opportunities it presents to psychologists. Rather than focusing on those aspects of managed care that have negatively affected psychological practice, the editors have chosen to present ways in which psychologists can succeed, demonstrate value and accountability, and thrive in the healthcare system of today and the future. They also discuss the skills that must be acquired and developed in order to do so. This book is a must for any psychologist or graduate student who is considering practicing in a managed care setting."
—Mark E. Maruish, Ph.D.
United Behavioral Health

"...timely and much needed.. .a must for psychologists as they prepare for the challenges presented by the continuing evolution of managed care and the health care industry. The chapters, written by a top notch group of scientist-practitioners, detail the changes seen in the traditional role of the psychologist, as well as examine new roles that are developing. The proactive stance offers a fresh and useful perspective on a much discussed topic. A valuable resource for clinicians, academicians, and graduate students alike."
—Alan M. Gross
University of Mississippi

"A Psychologist's Proactive Guide to Managed Mental Health Care provides an excellent overview of managed care, addresses challenges facing psychological assessment, frankly discusses how traditionally trained clinicians must change the services they deliver and, perhaps most importantly, alerts the reader to even more radical forthcoming changes in mental health service delivery that offer substantial opportunities to psychologists. I definitely recommend this informative book to established psychologists as well as to those who are still in training."
—Warren W. Tryon
Fordham University