CMH2007 - Primary mental health practice

Leader: Ms F Andrews

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit will examine the theory and practice of mental health service delivery in primary health care. It will consider the skills and knowledge required to improve the delivery of mental health services in primary care environments. Strategies for service planning including needs analysis, project management and service evaluation are explored. The impact on service provision of organisational and professional cultures and boundaries will be examined, along with the philosophies that shape service delivery within primary care.

Objectives

At the completion of this unit, students will have:

1. Developed their awareness of current philosophies and the policies driving mental health practice in primary care;
2. An understanding of the concepts of prevention, early intervention and health promotion in mental health;
3. Developed an understanding of the key function and skills required of primary mental health practioners;
4. An appreciation of the roles of the key stakeholders in primary care; and
5. An awareness of the evidence supporting the intervention strategies relevant to primary mental health service delivery.

Assessment

Two written assignments (approx. 2,000 - 3,000 words)