This text introduces undergraduates to the human service profession by examining the work environment, reviewing the essential skills required of human service professionals, and guiding students with their career planning.

By using case studies, examples, and self-tests, this text provides students with a realistic view of the daily decisions that must be made by professional helpers. This guide provides an overview of the issues and problems that create a need for professional assistance — increasing students' awareness of why health and human services agencies are needed.

As students' ability to diagnose difficulties increases, they will learn more about current treatment methods along with service delivery systems that best connect clients to the assistance they need.