Ethical, legal and clinical issues in counselling psychology
Associate Professor C F Sharpley
First semester * Clayton * Corequisites: GED1829/GED1830 * Quota: 10
This subject focuses upon some of the issues and demands which face counselling psychologists in professional practice. As well as examining the nature of various employment situations and their specific requirements (eg clinics, hospitals, public health facilities, schools, private practice, institutions), emphasis will be placed upon the ethical and legal constraints of psychological practice in such situations. Consideration will be given to ways in which counselling psychologists can work within multidisciplinary teams. In addition, issues discussed include the nature and quality of various systems of assessment, diagnosis, treatment and reporting to other professionals; ethical and legal responsibility for intervention; taking and making referrals; the necessity, nature, and procedures for upgrading and maintenance of professional expertise; the counselling psychologist's responsibilities to clients, families, institutions, society and self.
Assessment
Written (1500 words): 45% * Examinations (1 hour): 10% * Seminar participation/Case presentations and seminar papers: 45%