This book introduces a more inclusive paradigm of social work practice based on an integration of new theories and more traditional models of social work theory and practice. The majority of texts in social work direct practice focus on a specific at risk population (such as abused children) or on a specific methodology of practice. David Derezotes′s new philosophy of practice is developed using theory and research drawn from the Ecological paradigm, Postmodernism, and "Revisionist" psychology.

Intervention paradigms that include psychodynamic, cognitive/behavioral/communications, experiential/humanistic, existential and transpersonal are presented as the four sources of social work. The book touches on paradigms of intervention and discusses advanced generalist approach interventions with individuals, couples, families, and groups. Because of its thorough, systematic, and well-referenced coverage of key issues of direct practice, instructors will find the book useful as a required or supplemental text for direct practice courses.