Morrison (psychiatry, Washington U., St. Louis) delivers his advice to clinical psychology professionals on conducting an effective first diagnostic interview with patients through accessible text broken up by bulleted main point lists, anecdotes, and example scenarios. The 21 updated chapters discuss topics including: opening the interview and conducting introductions; developing rapport; gaining history of present illness, interviewing about feelings; dealing with sensitive subjects (e.g. suicidal behavior, sexual life, substance misuse); conducting behavioral and cognitive mental status exams; recognizing signs an symptoms in areas of clinical interest; meeting resistance; diagnosing; recommending treatment; and recognizing the troubled interview. The appendices provide additional examples, sample interview questions, and further resources. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)