Assessment & Diagnosis 1: Psychopathology & Psychodiagnostics

Catalog description

This course addresses the principles and practices of the diagnostic process, focusing on mental disorders, including severe manifestations. This course will facilitate an understanding of evidence-based practices, psychological testing, and psychopharmacology, with a particular emphasis on those evaluated in peer-reviewed literature. Students will be equipped to perform individual, relational, and larger systems assessments, including but not limited to mental status examinations, the creation of a medical genogram, and suicide risk assessments. The course will use the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) for diagnosing mental and emotional disorders. It will also explore the implications of co-occurring substance use disorders or medical psychological disorders on diagnostic and treatment processes. Art Therapy Specialization Note - Students in the AT specialization will cover CAAHEP required content, including: B.5. Assessment, Appraisal & Evaluation; B.6. Mental Health, Psychopathology & Diagnosis.