Neuroscience for the Mental Health Clinician, Third Edition

Steven R. Pliszka, MD, is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavior Sciences in the Joe R. and Theresa Long Lozano School of Medicine at The University of Texas at San Antonio. He served as Chair of the Department from 2015 to 2023, and from 1995 until 2015 he was Chief of the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Throughout his career, Dr. Pliszka has been involved in a wide range of administrative, research, clinical, and educational activities. His research focuses on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and related disorders; he was involved with numerous clinical trials of medications for ADHD. Dr. Pliszka also has been involved in several projects to integrate mental health services into pediatric primary care and school settings. He serves as the attending psychiatrist at two residential facilities for children with severe behavioral and emotional disorders.

“Written by a leading psychiatrist, this indispensable resource seamlessly bridges cutting-edge neurobiology with practical clinical application. The third edition captures a decade of revolutionary breakthroughs in the areas of multi-node neural networks, neuroimmunology, clinical genetics, machine learning, and more. Pliszka avoids oversimplification, arming practitioners with the nuances needed to debunk psychiatric misconceptions. The figures and tables are meticulously designed to offer exceptional utility. Clinicians gain the scientific literacy required to confidently explain complex neurobiological mechanisms to patients and to guide evidence-based treatment decisions. For advanced clinical training, graduate-level psychopathology courses, or psychiatry residencies, this text provides a fine instructional framework.â€--Stephen V. Faraone, PhD, Distinguished Professor, Department of Psychiatry, State University of New York Upstate Medical University“Every practicing mental health provider should have a copy of this book. To fully understand the biological bases of the conditions we treat is to offer a higher standard of care to our patients. The third edition distills the latest science on the neurobiology of common mental disorders, translating complexities into usable psychoeducation. It is fascinating to read, going beyond basics to timely topics such as genetics, inflammation, and hormonal influences on the brain. A great refresher and update for professionals!â€--Margaret Sibley, PhD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine-