Year
2020
Units
4.5
Contact
1 x 100-hour independent study per semester
1 x 2-hour on-line exercises fortnightly
1 x 1-hour on-line lecture weekly
1 x 2-hour on-line tutorial monthly
Prerequisites
1 Admission into GCCBT-Graduate Certificate in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
1a Admission into GDPMHS-Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Sciences
1b Admission into MCBT-Master of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
1c Admission into GDPCBT-Graduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
1d Admission into GCEWM-Graduate Certificate in Education (Wellbeing and Positive Mental Health)
1e Admission into MEDWM-Master of Education (Wellbeing and Positive Mental Health)
1f Admission into MEDWMP-Master of Education (Wellbeing and Positive Mental Health) [1.5 years]
1g Admission into MWPMHE-Master of Wellbeing and Positive Mental Health in Education
Must Satisfy: ((1 or 1a or 1b or 1c or 1d or 1e or 1f or 1g))
Assessment
Assignment(s), Group work, Quiz(zes)
Topic description
This topic provides students with an integrated knowledge of historical and contemporary theories of change as they relate to mental health. Students will develop an understanding of how the various mechanisms of change can impact the development, acquisition and maintenance of high prevalence mental health conditions, and how they relate to and impact clinical intervention. Students will explore ways to evaluate the efficacy of cognitive behavioural evidence-based treatment models and strategies to maximise individual needs in the context of important social and cultural issues. Additionally, students will learn how to critically evaluate translational research and convergent approaches that pave the way for new discoveries and improved outcomes in psychological therapies. The topic is delivered online through a series of interactive modules, and will explore how to identify, define, integrate and apply theoretical-based models of treatment, that include an evidence-based and ethical approach, into a framework of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT).
Educational aims
The topic aims to introduce students to the theoretical learning frameworks underpinning the development of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) with particular emphasis on behaviour change. The topic covers several areas: traditional learning theories; behavioural therapy interventions; and an introduction to integrated clinical applications for high prevalence psychological disorders.
Expected learning outcomes
On completion of this topic, students will be expected to be able to:

  1. Illustrate an understanding of the principles of the scientist-practitioner model and demonstrate how research and effective clinical practice are integrated within the context of translational research and contemporary evidence-based practice

  2. Critically evaluate empirical research that studies the efficacy of clinical interventions and integrates key findings into a coherent and comprehensive understanding of Cognitive Behavioural Therapies

  3. Identify, define and contrast traditional and contemporary theoretical concepts that relate to a bio-psycho-sociocultural understanding of mental health and the development of efficacious psychological interventions

  4. Integrate and apply theories to models of practice related to cognitive and behavioural change, to determine and adapt personalised treatment plans

  5. Evaluate how translational research influences practice and impacts health professional’s knowledge, skills and application in the implementation of contemporary and emerging treatment approaches.