Neuroscience for the Mental Health Clinician offers an accessible and succinct overview of neuroscience essential for contemporary mental health practice. Author Steven R. Pliszka synthesizes current knowledge on the neurobiological bases of major psychiatric disorders, exploring brain systems that underlie cognition, emotions, and behavior. The book delves into how disturbances in these systems can lead to psychopathology and examines the impact of genetic and environmental risk factors across development. It also addresses how both pharmacological and psychosocial treatments act on the brain to reduce symptoms.

The second edition has been updated with over a decade of important advances in brain science, including heightened focus on brain networks and cutting-edge discussions of genetics and epigenetics, the biological impact of stress, neurotransmitters, novel depression treatments, and more. Detailed chapters are included on autism spectrum disorder and dementia, along with numerous new and revised figures.

With 93 black-and-white figures and 14 color plates, this comprehensive resource is ideal for clinicians and students seeking to deepen their understanding of the neuroscience behind mental health disorders.