PSY501 Interview and Intervention Strategies

In this unit students learn the skills of clinical interviewing based upon empirically validated models. Principles of psychotherapy are covered with particular attention to techniques for establishing and maintaining collaborative therapeutic relationships in culturally diverse contexts, issues around therapeutic process and content, and other factors routinely encountered in clinical practice. A theoretical grounding in the knowledge and application of Cognitive Behaviour Therapies and other empirically validated interventions for common psychological disorders across the lifespan is provided. Intervention skills required of clinical psychologists working with families, groups, and organisations are also addressed.

Knowledge and skills gained in this unit are consolidated and extended in Advanced Clinical Assessment (Year 2, Semester 1) and Psychological Therapies (Year 2, Semester 1). Engagement in practical rehearsal, peer review and feedback, and practice sessions using rooms with one-way mirrors facilitate the acquisition and integration of interview and treatment skills necessary to embark on the first clinical placement.

Unit Information