Social Work Practice in Mental Health Adults

Catalog description

This advanced methods course, Social Work Practice in Mental Health: Adults, deepens and broadens knowledge and skills developed in SASS 549 : Theory and Practice Approaches, and SASS 547 : Problem Identification, Screening and Assessment/Diagnosis and provides an integration of knowledge gained in the foundation courses on human development and social work methods with our most current literature and understanding of the treatment of mental health disorders among adults. Students will integrate knowledge of biopsychosocial assessments and clinical practice theories with knowledge related to evidence-based intervention techniques used in professional settings specializing in adult mental health: hospitals, family service agencies, mental health centers, and residential treatment centers. Students will learn to apply developmental and clinical theories within the context of evidence-based interventions. Social and economic risk factors, such as poverty, discrimination, and oppression, are considered in the intervention process and in the utilization of mental health services. Students will also examine how to incorporate strategies maximizing individual strengths and empowerment, and to think critically about how to ensure that their practice adheres to social work values and ethics. In addition, students will learn to think critically about the myriad of ways cultural diversity influences illness manifestations, trajectories and treatment progress. Prereq: Advanced Standing or (SASS 502 and SASS 504 and SASS 508 and SASS 509 ).