Introduction to Clinical Practice

Course Description

Introductory course that is part I of a two-course sequence orienting students to doctoral studies in clinical psychology and preparing them to enter practicum field placement experiences in year two. Topics include professional and career development, APA ethical guidelines, and self-reflection and evaluation skills. A core emphasis is on clinical interviewing strategies, administration of a mental status exam, and substance use and risk assessment. Students are introduced to principles of biopsychosociospiritual case conceptualization, including clinical diagnosis and broad treatment recommendations. Course activities include guided role-plays with corrective feedback, review of case studies/videos, and producing a written intake evaluation (history of present illness, social history, treatment history, mental status exam, case formulation, diagnosis, treatment recommendations) on a standardized clinical case. Throughout the course, attention is given to the integration of Christian Theology and Christian Worldview assumptions into the understanding and application of course content.

Code

PSYD 600

Credits

3

Subject

PSYD

Programs That Include This Course

• Doctoral Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.)