module specification

PY7203 - CBT for Complex Disorders (2023/24)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2023/24
Module title CBT for Complex Disorders
Module level Masters (07)
Credit rating for module 20
School School of Social Sciences and Professions
Total study hours 200
 
167 hours Guided independent study
33 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 50%   Critical analysis essay
Coursework 50%   Case study
Running in 2023/24

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Spring semester North Wednesday Morning

Module summary

The module introduces students to core areas of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy practice and treatment used to address Complex Disorders. It provides students with in-depth understanding of the psychopathology of a range of complex disorders and the associated research, scientific and treatment evidence. Further the modules explores different types of treatment options between conditions and their value and efficacy in practice.


Module aims:
• To provide students with a good understanding of the range of complex disorders which CBT can support
• To provide students with a good understanding of different therapeutic skills in CBT to address complex disorders 
• To provide students with the skills to conceptualise treatment of complex disorders using key CBT techniques
• To provide students with the opportunity to practice using CBT skills to address complex issues
• To encourage students to evaluate the efficacy of different CBT skills

Syllabus

• Psychopathologies in accordance with the DSM and ICD guidelines across a broad range of topics (Personality disorders; Schizophrenia, Eating Disorders, PTSD, Body Dysmorphia, Psychosis etc.,).  LO1
• Clinical considerations in using CBT in complex disorders. LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4, LO5
• Specific cognitive and behavioural therapy techniques to address complex disorders (e.g., Schema therapy etc.,).LO2, LO3, LO4

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

Mixed methods approach. Formal lectures combined with workshop activities and interactive group sessions.

Delivery and discussion of the module syllabi will be via interactive lectures and tutorials (11 X3hrs). In addition to the weekly seminar workshops which will provide a forum for the application of theory to practical problems (11 hrs), students are expected to work in groups to learn from each other and learn how to independently use other resources available, e.g. library, the internet, Web Learn and own organisation.  Hence a total of 11x3 hrs interactive sessions including seminar activities are designed to discuss various topics in the lectures and the pre-circulated seminar workshop activities. The module will also have its own dedicated Web Learn site to enable staff and students to readily contact each other and offers an on-line support/learning.

Information and materials relating to the workshops and seminars will be circulated once the course has commenced.   The seminars and workshops will familiarise students with various aspect of the course.  All workshops will relate to lecture topics and will provide the opportunities for role play, demonstrations, interactive group discussions, reflective appraisal etc.  Students are expected to do prior reading and consult recommended texts in order to be actively involved in the seminar activities and group discussions.

The usual programme each week will comprise of a lecture integrated with seminar workshop activities and group discussion. The workshops will use the content of the lecture and pre-circulated material for class discussion and group work.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able:

1. To demonstrate a detailed knowledge of key complex disorders and client needs
2. To be able to use scientific evidence to critically evaluate the value of using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for complex disorders
3. To be able to apply theoretical principles in the development of CBT treatment support plans
4. To manifest a detailed grasp of the application of CBT techniques in challenging populations
5. To be able to use cognitive behavioural therapy techniques suitable for complex disorders in professional contexts

Assessment strategy

There are two assignments which test students' evaluation, reflective and practitioner skills.

Assignment 1: This coursework will be based on a critical analysis essay. Students will need to critical evaluate the role of CBT treatment within the context of a complex disorder. The assessment will require an in-depth evaluation of the symptoms and consequences of living with a disorder and how CBT can play a positive role in treatment.  Students will need to review the scientific and practitioner evidence base around CBT treatment for complex disorders. Learning outcomes 1 and 2 will be addressed.  Word length 2000 words.

Assignment 2: This coursework assignment will test the critical evaluation and reflective skills of the students in addressing needs of a complex disorder case study. Students will be required to address a case study to offer an assessment, formulation and treatment plan for the client needs. They should reflect on their own clinical practice and learnings in order to do this. As part of this they will need to identify clinical challenges and techniques to address these in practice. Learning outcomes 3,4 and 5 will be addressed. At this stage there is an awareness that not all students will have access to complex disorders so students are permitted to use case studies based on their own clinical practice or where not available case studies offered by the teaching team. Word length 2000 words.

Bibliography