Year
2012
Units
4.5
Contact
1 x 1-day workshop once-only
1 x 3-day intensive workshop once-only
1 x 8-hour independent study weekly
Prerequisites
^ = may be enrolled concurrently
1 Admission into GCHMS-Graduate Certificate in Health (Mental Health Sciences)
1a Admission into GDPMHS-Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Sciences
1b Admission into MMHS-Master of Mental Health Sciences
2 ^ 2 of MHSC8021, MHSC8020
Must Satisfy: ((1 or 1a or 1b) and 2)
Enrolment not permitted
MHSC8003A has been successfully completed
Assumed knowledge
Minimum of two years mental health experience and relevant qualifications.
Course context
Enrolment into this topic in external mode is subject to approval by the Course Coordinator, MHSC.
Assessment
Assignments; Tutorial presenation; Oral; Placement
Topic description
The topic will cover: 1. Treatment Plan/Case Management Plan: Covers the screening & full assessment, risk management, treatment & discharge through to final follow-up. Examines the applications of rationale, goal setting & individualised treatment, adherence to the program and managing difficulties in treatment. 2. Management of a Caseload: Examines monitoring clients' progress & working with outcomes. 3. Communication: Examines clinical documentation, letter writing & referrals for anxiety disorder clients. Standard case summary & formulations of assessments will be practiced via case presentations in group supervision. 4. Multi-Agency Care: Covers duty of care, boundaries, responsibilities, referrals, developing networks, case conferences & communications between agencies. Overviews medico-legal and ethical issues. 5. Systematic Intervention: Emphasises a planned & coordinated approach to intervention. All involved with the client are active in the treatment to ensure the client has the necessary understanding, structure & support to optimise treatment adherence & effectiveness.
Educational aims
The aim of this topic is to:

  • (1) gain an understanding and practical experience of case management that is grounded in Behavioural Cognitive Psychotherapy model within the context of community based, client-centred services

  • (2) gain an understanding and practical experience of a variety of mental health and Behavioural Cognitive assessment processes, in particular those approaches relevant to assessment of anxiety disorders

  • (3) develop knowledge, skill and personal qualities in applying and interpreting relevant assessment processes with clients presenting with anxiety and related disorders

  • (4) developing the knowledge and skill to develop individual Behavioural Psychotherapy management plans with anxiety disorder clients, and assume the role of primary therapist with this client group

  • (5) to develop skill and understanding in the principles of clinical communication, networking and advocacy.

Expected learning outcomes
Students will be able to:

  • manage a case load of clients referred for assessment and treatment of non-complex psychological disorders for which Behavioural Psychotherapy is effective.

  • manage an individual caseload of 4 cases (inclusive of Specific Phobia, Social Phobia, Panic & Agoraphobia) and communicate with other professionals appropriately.

  • demonstrate competency in the decision-making process involved in selecting a treatment plan for such clients.

  • under supervision apply the preparation and planning processes necessary for the optimum efficacy of a clinical session, managing a caseload efficiently and cost effectively, maintaining an appropriate level of active clients.

  • maintain a high quality of communication with other professionals; managing treatment in the context of multi-agency care, being aware of related legal and ethical issues.

  • demonstrate an awareness of appropriate discharge and follow-up procedures. Apply a systematic planned approach to treatment, within an educative framework actively involving the clients and co-therapists in their own therapy.

  • collect and record information regarding treatment in a clear and systematic format.