Available in 2024
Course code

PSYC6503

Units

10 units

Level

6000 level

Course handbook

Description

Mental health disorders are a major public health burden with significant impacts on individuals’ wellbeing. This course will focus on introducing evidence-based, clinical psychological practice with adults, the scientist-practitioner model and the skills of identification, diagnosis, assessment, and treatment planning for the more common adult psychological disorders. The course includes instruction on assessment, diagnosis and methods of treatment. Major intervention strategies for common mental health problems in adulthood will be addressed including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and e-health interventions. This course uses the blended learning format and students are expected to engage with readings and online tasks each week. Seminars will be held fortnightly and will centre on problem-based learning exercises.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Callaghan

  • Semester 1 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Critically evaluate psychological theories of the aetiology, progression and/or recovery, precursors and sequelae of common psychological disorders, including incidence, prevalence and predisposing, risk, protective and maintenance factors to example cases. (Competencies 3.16, 4.2.1.i)

2. Relate the developmental systems and biopsychosocial models of health (in an appropriate cultural context) to common psychological disorders as well as the multiple factors that impinge on mental health. (Competency 3.2, 4.2.1.ii)

3. Apply the DSM 5 classification system and relevant international taxonomies of classification of common psychological disorders at professional standard levels of competency. (Competencies 3.5, 4.2.1.iii)

4. Explain the role of psychopharmacology within psychological practice for management of common psychological disorders. (Competency 4.2.1.iv)

5. Incorporate assessment data and knowledge of psychopathology to inform case formulation, diagnosis and treatment planning in a culturally sensitive manner. (Competencies 3.2, 4.2.3.i, 4.2.3.iv)

6. Apply evidence-based professional practice techniques in the diagnosis and management of psychological disorders and across modalities such as e-health approaches. (Competencies 3.2, 4.2.3.iv)


Content

  • The aetiology and presentation of common psychological disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use
  • Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th Edition (DSM 5) diagnosis and assessment of common psychological disorders
  • Problem formulations and transdiagnostic perspectives
  • Planning evidence-based interventions
  • Psychopharmacological interventions for common psychological disorders
  • Cultural awareness and responsiveness in diagnosis, assessment, problem formulation, and intervention
  • Relevant professional and ethical issues in assessment and intervention
  • Models of care in contemporary mental health settings

Requisite

This course is only available to students enrolled in the Master of Professional Psychology [40117], the Master of Clinical Psychology [40187], or the Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology) [11539].


Assumed knowledge

It is assumed that students will have completed a four-year program in Psychology which has been accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC).


Assessment items

Quiz: Online quizzes
Compulsory Requirement: Pass requirement - Must pass this assessment item to pass the course.

Case Study / Problem Based Learning: Case Study Presentation
Compulsory Requirement: Pass requirement - Must pass this assessment item to pass the course.

Written Assignment: Essay/Case Study
Compulsory Requirement: Pass requirement - Must pass this assessment item to pass the course.


Contact hours

Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan

Seminar-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per fortnight for 13 fortnight(s) starting in week 1
  • Non Seminar weeks: 3 hours of guided learning online and 7 hours of independent studySeminar weeks: 3 hours of guided learning online to prepare for the seminar, 3 hour seminar and 4 hours of independent study

Course outline