Written by an expert in gerontological social work and curriculum development this book provides a wealth of clinical information for social workers and other health care professionals who counsel older adults It describes a strengths based empowerment approach to treatment that integrates theory technique advocacy and social policy and encompasses the tenets of human rights The book s content has been tested in the classroom setting for a three year period with advanced social work undergraduate and graduate students The book examines various theories of aging including a contrast between the strengths based person in environment theory and the pathologically based medical model of psychological problems It advocates truly engaging with the older client during the assessment phase and discusses a variety of intervention modalities The psychological construct of stigma regarding aging is examined along with the major psychopathological problems common to older adults The book also considers Alzheimer s disease and dementia medical problems of older adults and co occurring psychological problems substance abuse older adult sexuality elder abuse and the vulnerabilities of gay lesbian bisexual and transgender older adults Additionally the book addresses mental health issues pertaining to residential settings and the aspects of death and dying that give older people concern Extensive case studies learning objectives and discussion questions are featured in each chapter The book also includes an instructor packet PowerPoint slides and an interactive PDF Key Features Provides a wealth of classroom tested clinical information Espouses a strengths based approach to treatment that integrates theory technique advocacy and social justice Consistent with social work mandates for a human rights focus Presents extensive case studies learning objectives and discussion questions in each chapter Includes an instructors packet PowerPoint slides and interactive PDF