These 11 papers begin by discussing the delivery of mental health services to non-urban black consumers, focusing on traditional education for practice, ethnocultural sensitivity, and geography and victimization. The expanding clinical social work roles in nontraditional approaches to rural aging are discussed also, and mental health, social work practice, and a case example are presented. Alternative care interventions in rural mental health centers are explored, and a pilot study on minority women and depression is provided, including information on incidence and treatment. The paper on cross cultural conflicts between urban service providers and rural clients discusses labeling, interaction orientations, definitions of time, approaches to problem solving, interpretations of change, and the role of the sacred among significant others. Studies on admission patterns of blacks in mental health centers and on the influence of rural social networks on the perception and utilization of mental health services are presented. Results of a survey of eight programs set up in North Carolina counties following a class action lawsuit in 1979, ("Willie M" programs), are described including population, services, utilization of services, and conclusions. An outreach approach to rural mental health practice is described, and services to rural African Americans are discussed in relation to variables influencing underutilization, help giving systems, and outreach strategies. The proceedings conclude with scenes from therapy with an Appalachian family, including goals, family characteristics, and intervention strategies. All papers include references. (BL)