Offering an historical perspective on the development of mental health consultation and community mental health, this book's intent is twofold. First, it describes and evaluates Harvard psychiatrist Gerald Caplan's innovative approach to consultation and related activities with respect to the current and future practice of clinical community, school and organizational psychology. Second, it pays tribute to Caplan whose ideas on prevention, crisis theory, support systems, community mental health, mental health consultation and collaboration and population-orientated psychiatry have influenced the practice of professional psychology and allied fields.; The text is divided into three sections: the first provides background information for the remainder of the volume; the second documents Caplan's influence on the way psychology has been applied in various settings; andthe last considers his contribution's present and past influence. The text is aimed at consultant and practising psychologists, community and school psychology graduates and professionals involved with community mental health services.