EDF5516 - Clinical and therapeutic interventions - 2019

This unit reviews current approaches to psychological practice employing empirically supported interventions. The learning is structured around evidence-based practice and the development of practice-based evidence for common issues in both adult and child populations. Students examine both client and therapist variables that have been identified as essential for intervention efficacy and are exposed to a range of techniques associated with promotion of wellbeing, symptom reduction and behavioural change. In addition, students learn how to employ culturally sensitive interventions that have been shown to facilitate positive outcomes in a variety of contexts. Research methodologies employed in the establishment of evidence-based practice are critiqued. Students learn how to utilise research in guiding their choice of therapeutic interventions and how to study the outcomes of their intervention in practice. The unit also provides guided rehearsal and development of skills relating to general professional psychological practice.

Upon successful completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. find, collect, describe and critique empirically supported treatments associated with common needs and concerns presented to psychologists in practice
2. design intervention/treatment plans to test hypotheses generated from a client's presenting issues
3. outline a range of variables associated with positive outcomes in psychotherapy and interventions generally
4. collect, record and analyse client responses to interventions and therapeutic programs
5. identify and critically appraise the major research approaches utilised in the establishment of evidence-based practice and their application in developing practice-based evidence.

Critical essay (3000 words, 40%)

Case conceptualisation and intervention plan (5000 words, 60%)

Minimum total expected workload equals 288 hours per semester comprising:

1. Contact hours for on-campus students:
   • 2.5-hour lecture/workshop per week
   • 0.5 hour per week supervision of professional experience related activity
2. Additional requirements (all students):
   • independent study to make up the required minimum hours per week

See also Unit timetable information