Psychopharmacological Treatment in Special Populations II

Catalog description

The pathophysiology and treatment of substance use disorders from a biopsychosocial model is presented. Issues of medical comorbidity are studied: psychopharmacological treatment in the medically compromised patient, including case studies and review of comprehensive treatment models; mental disorders due to a general medical condition and/or adverse drug reactions; and referral practices to specialists. Diagnostic rating scales and psychiatric instruments of use to the prescribing psychologist are presented. The course ends with an integration of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, including ethical issues such as the right to refuse treatment, treatment compliance/adherence, risk management, and the role of the medical psychologist in the modern, integrated healthcare system. Doctorate in Psychology required. Non-majors may be permitted to enroll in this course under limited circumstances with the permission of the course instructor, department head, and graduate school dean. May be repeated up to 3 credits.