module specification

PY7225 - Specialised Clinical Issues in Mental Health Services (2025/26)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2025/26
Module title Specialised Clinical Issues in Mental Health Services
Module level Masters (07)
Credit rating for module 20
School School of Social Sciences and Professions
Total study hours 200
 
164 hours Guided independent study
36 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 60%   Critical discussion of services
Individual Presentation 40%   Presentation/ screencast
Running in 2025/26

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Autumn semester North Thursday Afternoon

Module summary

This module will develop your knowledge and understanding of a range of issues in mental health service provision and use. You will explore the experiences of those accessing mental health services, including barriers to accessing treatment (e.g., difficulties in identifying and communicating distress; stigmatising beliefs; preference for self-reliance) and the challenges experienced by clients within those services (e.g., cultural and gender differences; developing and maintaining therapeutic relationships), especially for those with specific diagnoses (e.g., depression; anxiety; and psychosis). You will be introduced to various theoretical, legal, and ethical frameworks that underpin service provision (e.g., Mental Health Act and Care Quality Commission Regulations). You will have opportunities to develop the skills that will help you to address many of the challenges faced by professionals working within those services (e.g., communication; managing client and family expectations; and workplace challenges such as violence and aggression). The knowledge and skills developed in this module will leave you well positioned to work successfully in different mental healthcare services.

Prior learning requirements

N/A

Syllabus

Topics to be covered in the module will be drawn from: Specialised clinical issues in mental health services; service user experiences; working in mental health services; theoretical, legal, and ethical frameworks in mental health services.

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

The learning objectives will be achieved through a combination of lectures, interactive workshops, seminars, supplementary guided web-based learning, and self-managed independent study. You will be encouraged to reflect on your learning throughout the module, particularly using formative feedback, and to take responsibility for identifying gaps in your learning.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module, you will:

  1. Understand a range of issues in mental health service provision and use.
  2. Have a critical understanding of the client experience accessing and using mental health services.
  3. Have an awareness of and ability to address challenges faced by mental health practitioners and those working in health and social care settings.  
  4. Be able to explain various theoretical, legal, and ethical frameworks that underpin service provision and understand how they are applied in practice.

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