Abstract: Eighteen authoritative essays prepared by experts in their respective fields of study for professional educators and community psychologists emphasizes the development of community psychology groups, methods, theories, and principles stemming from actual community research and practice. The essays are grouped among 3 principle themes: specific self-help, mutual-aid community groups reflecting various mental-health needs (including women, gays, drug abusers, abusing parents, the overweight, the physically disabled, and those who care for the aged); the role of professionals in self-help programs; and evaluations and assessments of self-help programs; and evaluations and assessments of self-help group needs. A closing essay discusses self-help groups from an international perspective. (wz).