ABSTRACT
Community psychology has developed as a response to the limitations of traditional approaches. It is not a specific therapy or technique nor a distinct model of working in mental health services. It draws upon theories and practices which recognise the relationship between disadvantage, discrimination and distress, seeking explanations beyond the individual. It recognises that the conditions that contribute towards distress are ecological and multifaceted. In this chapter we consider community psychology approaches which we find useful in assertive outreach. We outline our understanding of community psychology by describing its values, how it is practised alongside those who use services, and the use of its principles in community and service development.
