Psychotic Disorders: Psycho-Social-Bio Perspectives

Catalog description

This one-credit elective will introduce students to a comprehensive, non-reductionistic model of psychotic disorders (schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder): From DNA to Neighborhood. We will review the most recent genetic, epigenetic (chemical processes controlling gene expression which are also regulated by social and psychological experiences) and neurobiological findings as well as their relationship to chronic stress, trauma, and adverse social experiences. We will concentrate on sociocultural and psychosocial factors identified in research to be involved in the initiation, course, and outcomes of psychotic disorders. Our course will also concentrate on the many evidence-based psychosocial therapies for these disorders, e.g., psychodynamic supportive therapy, CBTp, psychoeducation, Open Dialogue, Compassion Mind Therapy, Avatar Therapy for Voices, Voice Hearers Network, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Care management and ACT, PROS Programs and Milieu Therapies, Multiple Family Therapy Groups, Pre-Therapy, etc. We will also review all FDA approved medications for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, as well as the use of off-label medications.