This subject and its partner subject (Clinical Processes in Anxiety and Depression B) aim to enhance knowledge and skills in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders in clinical practice. Disorders that are investigated include: major depression, dysthymic disorder, adjustment disorder, state anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, social phobia, specific phobias, generalised anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. The aetiology, features and classification of the various disorders and the use of assessment instruments are examined. Students learn to accurately diagnose anxiety and mood disorders, and to recognise cases which they can competently treat versus those that require referral for specialist treatment. Issues of suicidality and mental health services available in the community are explored. Psychological treatments taught in the program are evidence based, predominantly utilising the Cognitive Behaviour Therapy model, although some treatments based on other models, and biologically based treatments, are also examined. Students receive group supervision in the management of their clinical cases.
Spring semester, City campus