Judith Milner was a counsellor, trainer and Independent Expert in child protection proceedings where there was substance misuse and domestic violence. Now retired, she is studying moral psychology.Steve Myers is Director of Social Sciences at the University of Salford, UK.Patrick O'Byrne is a Freelance counsellor, supervisor and family mediator and was formerly a senior lecturer at the University of Huddersfield, UK.

• Introduction 1. Assessment in the 21st Century 2. Anti-Oppressive Practice 3. Effective Assessment Processes 4. Selecting a Map 5. A Satellite Map: Systems Approaches 6. A Map of the Ocean: Psychodynamic Approaches 7. An Ordnance Survey Map: Behavioral Approaches 8. A Handy Tourist Map: The Task-Centered Approach 9. An Explorer Map: Strengths-based Approaches 10. Assessment in Childrens' Services 11. Assessment in Adults' Services 12. A Map of the Universe: Spiritual Approaches Conclusion

Assessment in Social Work is already a core text on our social work courses here in Trinity College Dublin. This four edition includes new chapters on systems theory and spirituality adding extra depth to an already rich text. I cannot recommend it highly enough as an essential resource for social work students and new graduates.