Designed as both a text for psychology students and a reference for professional psychologists, this book organizes material from a diversity of sources into a succinct, yet comprehensive, text. It covers the historical foundations and the defining elements of the profession, including ethical codes and their applications; practice guidelines and regulatory developments; evolving service-delivery models; professional organizations; legal implications; and professional accountability. Chapters present the existing positions, standards, and/or documents with which all applied psychologists should be familiar. In addition, careers in applied psychology and allied helping professions are reviewed, and education and training models are discussed.

The authors encourage readers to keep current with the changing profession by pursuing membership in an organization and applying for professional credentials. Involvement in the profession's development ensures a lively community and a vital future.