In this unit the scientist-practitioner model is established as the primary orientation for clinical practice. Students will learn the essential professional, ethical and legal requirements expected of clinical psychologists. They will become familiar with the code of ethics governing professional practice, the National Practice Standards for the Mental Health Workforce, and relevant Northern Territory Legislation. Skills in communicating the ethical and legal issues of informed consent, confidentiality, cultural sensitivities, mandatory reporting, record keeping and file management to the client are covered comprehensively and consolidated via opportunities to role play ethical dilemmas, initial interviews, boundary setting and other real world scenarios.

Coverage of the specific aspects of working as a psychologist in rural and remote locations, and/or in areas with high levels of socio-cultural diversity is an important component of this unit and contributes to preparing students for their first clinical placement. As most placements will require students to work as a member of a multidisciplinary team this unit provides a foundation for students to form collaborative working relationships with professionals from other disciplines while simultaneously developing their own professional identity.

Unit Information

PRESCRIBED TEXT - PSYCHOTHERAPY AN AUSTRALIAN PERSPECTIVE