Overview

This module explores the key theoretical models on which clinical psychology practice is based, and illustrates how these models inform clinical practice. This is intended to assist students in making decisions about pursuing a career in clinical psychology and to help prepare students for seeking relevant posts or training places. The module is presented in 11 weekly sessions consisting of lectures and case formulation based activities. Lectures will be given mainly by practising clinicians with expertise in particular theoretical approaches and their practical application to clinical problems, who have kindly agreed to contribute as guest lecturers to this module. The typical module structure is as follows:

1 Introduction to Clinical Psychology

2 Formulation vs Diagnosis

3 Behavioural approaches

4 CBT 1

5 CBT 2

6, 7 & 8 Third Wave approaches 1.DBT; 2.Mindfulness 3.ACT

9 Psychodynamic Approaches

10 Cognitive Analytic Therapy

11 Case Formulation Across the therapies

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -(C) Adequate answer to the question, largely based on lecture material. No real development of arguments. -good -(B) Reasonably comprehensive coverage. Well organised and structured. Good understanding of the material. -excellent -(A) Comprehensive and accurate coverage of the area clarity of argument and expression. Depth of insight into theoretical issues

Learning Outcomes

• Appreciate the importance of a lifespan developmental framework for clinical psychology. For example, understanding how various historical and contextual events increase and contribute to distress.

• Develop an understanding of the scientist-practitioner approach that clinical psychologists adopt in their training and practice in the UK.

• Explain the distinctive approaches clinical psychologists take in conceptualising and formulating distress. For example, applying a structured model to understand the various factors leading to and maintaining distress.

• Give examples of how these theories are applied in practice. For example, understanding which theories and therapies are most relevant for certain populations and disorders.

• Learn the ability to formulate clinical case studies using the theory learnt during the lectures.

• Outline key concepts of the major theories underpinning clinical psychology practice. For example, exploring the unique contribution that clinical psychology makes to mental health provision.