Women with Serious Mental Illness

Women with serious mental illness (SMI) include those with schizophrenia severe depression bipolar disorder and/or complex posttraumatic stress disorder whose illnesses significantly impair daily functioning. While these women commonly present in psychotherapy and research samples their needs are rarely addressed in academic literature and mental health training programs. <p/><em>Women with Serious Mental Illness </em>focuses on these women's experiences including the history of mistreatment marginalization and oppression they have encountered within their everyday lives and within the mental health system. With decades of combined clinical experience Drs. Lauren Mizock and Erika Carr offer evidence-based strategies for mental health professionals working with this overlooked population. Built on a framework of feminist theory concepts on the intersectionality of oppression and a more holistic view of recovery the book examines the impact of racism sexual objectification trauma relationships work and class on the development and presentation of symptoms of mental illness in these women. These discussions are then synthesized into an effective treatment intervention Gender-Sensitive and Recovery-Oriented Care (G-ROC) which values an equal therapeutic relationship and validates the client as an expert on their own mental health. Chapters include worksheets discussion questions and case narratives for easy practical application in research or training programs. Women with Serious Mental Illness underscores the need for improved care for women men and gender nonbinary people with serious mental illness. Using these tools clients can begin the process of seeking hope empowerment and self-determination beyond the effects of mental illness.<br>