Psychiatric Illness

This chapter focuses on people who have a psychiatric disorder with significant and persistent functional impairment, often referred to as a serious mental illness. After providing an overview of the population with an emphasis on the social model of disability and the role of the rehabilitation psychologist, the chapter presents the diathesis stress and recovery model (including clinical, functional, and personal recovery) and the contribution of evidence-based practices. Primary symptoms, impairments, and personal challenges are described along with key assessment tools and interventions, with an emphasis on the social context in which these occur. Some of the ethical and advocacy considerations and the unique role of the rehabilitation psychologist in the rapidly developing field of psychiatric rehabilitation are discussed.