Two training programs in rural Iowa demonstrated community helpers can be trained to function effectively in rural mental health service delivery. Comparable training programs sponsored by the center are currently in progress. Training these natural helpers in interpersonal skills is an important service of community mental health centers. (Author)

A small new mental health center in a rural community of Ohio found collaboration a more feasible goal than consultation. Despite its limited staff and budget, the center was able--through cooperative efforts with agencies and individuals--to extend markedly its services to the community. (Author)

Describes the fate of a cooperative effort by a welfare department and a mental health center in an Ohio city. (Author)

Describes an approach to cooperative efforts between a mental health center and a law enforcement agency. A series of programs were developed to provide human relations skills training to police officers. These cooperative training programs are designed to increase interpersonal sensitivity in dealing with citizens and fellow officers alike. (SJL)

Presents two case histories that show the types of stress experienced by the developmentally disabled. These people are being denied adequate mental health services. Suggestions are made to the agencies that serve the disabled in order to correct this situation. (Author/LAB)

Examines the issue of involuntary outpatient commitment, and its implications for social workers working in the health system. Describes a nationwide movement to establish a new system of involuntary outpatient commitment to address the failure of deinstitutionalization, mandating mental health treatment in the community for persons ineligible for…