Psychopharmacology and Reflective Practice

Unit code: APC7007 | Study level: Postgraduate
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Footscray Nicholson
Footscray Park
N/A
Overview
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Overview

This is a capstone unit that formally overviews, integrates and assesses a wide number of competencies central to the successful completion of the degree. In terms of content, however, it comprises two distinct topic foci: psychopharmacology and reflective practice. The psychopharmacology component covers the major neurotransmitter systems involved in psychiatric illness and the putative action of psychiatric medications on these targets. Further, the impact of illicit and other drugs will be reviewed in relation to mental health and prescribed medications. The relationship between psychotherapy and psychopharmacology will also be addressed. While reflective practice (RP) is embedded throughout the course, this unit will explicitly address theoretical and applied aspects of RP, especially its relationship to psychotherapy process and intervention. The assessment task for the RP component of this unit will involve critically reviewing session material from students’ Clinic clients, and the therapeutic processes responsible for facilitating or impeding the clients’ psychological progress. Students’ critical reflection on the therapeutic process will demonstrate their knowledge of RP models and principles.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Exhibit knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of action of psychiatric medications and illicit drugs;
  2. Critically reflect on the prescribing rationale for currently used psychiatric medications and their potential risks and benefits;
  3. Critically review the complementary relationship and interaction of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy;
  4. Argue the importance of reflective practice competences in clinical psychology assessment and intervention; and
  5. Critically evaluate the impact of their clinical interventions and theorise the mechanisms of psychological change in their psychotherapy work.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 30%
Multiple choice test assessing knowledge of psychopharmacology
Assessment type: Case Study
|
Grade: 70%
Review of case study material to address reflective practice principles (4000 words)

Required reading

Reflective practice in psychotherapy and counselling.
Dallos, R., & Stedmon, J. (2009).| Open University Press
Stahl's essential psychopharmacology
Stahl, S.M. (2008).| Cambridge University Press

As part of a course

This unit is not compulsory for any specific course. Depending on the course you study, this unit may be taken as an elective.

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