Module: PSY7000-30 - Issues in Professional Practice

Level: 7

Credit Value: 30

Module Tutor: Dr Rob Irwin

Module Tutor Contact Details: r.irwin@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module

Psychologists who work in clinical or health practice seek to ameliorate distress and improve the functioning and quality of life of their clients through the application of knowledge derived from psychological theory and research. This module introduces you to the practice of psychology using the conceptual framework of the reflective scientist-practitioner model. It aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of practice in ‘real world’ settings, and, in particular the core skills expected of practitioner psychologists, specifically: effective communication; assessment; formulation; intervention; and evaluation.

2. Outline syllabus

This module considers the following issues: the reflective scientist-practitioner model as a framework for the practice of applied psychology; psychological practice in healthcare settings: the development of the BPS’s Divisions of Clinical Psychology, Health Psychology; the HCPC’s standards of proficiency for practitioner psychologists; ethical and practical issues in practice-research; assessment; therapeutic communication; psychological formulation (case conceptualisation); evidence-informed practice; evaluation of practice.

3. Teaching and learning activities

Teaching and learning activities will include a mix of lectures, small-group learning activities and individual tutorials.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: Essay (3000 words)
• % Weighting: 60%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: Formulation (2000 words)
• % Weighting: 40%