The course has five taught modules and a sixth research module. The first three modules are supervised by the University of Dundee while the second three are supervised by the University of Stirling. All modules are core and there are no optional modules.
Assessment, diagnosis and formulation
Provides knowledge of the essential ingredients of collaborative therapeutic relationships and of the evidence linking the therapeutic alliance to treatment outcomes in Cognitive -behavioural Psychotherapy.
Principles and methods of psychological therapy
Provides knowledge of general factors implicated in onset, maintenance and restitution of common mental health disorders within a CBT framework.
Common mental health disorders in primary care
Provides the theoretical and clinical knowledge of the prevalence, aetiology, presentation, course and differential diagnosis of common mental health disorders in the context of the evidence base for the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioural treatment for common mental health disorders presenting in primary care.
Professional and ethical issues
This module examines common ethical dilemmas which may affect psychologists in their therapeutic work. The module will emphasize the need to consider the consequences of the therapist’s actions in relation to ethical issues in: communication, informed consent, diversity, boundaries, competence and fitness to practice, confidentiality and organizing services/clinical governance, as well as how to avoid conflicts of interest and put client’s best interests first.
Research, evaluation and outcome
This module aims to strengthen your understanding of the methodological and statistical principles of psychological research and their relevance to evidence-based outcomes while helping you develop the ability to critically evaluate psychological research methodology and outcomes.
Research dissertation
This module gives the trainee the experience of conducting a clinically relevant research project in an NHS setting. This helps you to develop a clear understanding of what 'evidence based practice' is while engaging with relevant literature as early as possible in an attempt to answer a specified research question.
Modules
The module information below provides an example of the types of course module you may study. The details listed are for the current academic year (September 2021). Modules and start dates are regularly reviewed and may be subject to change in future years.
Course Details
Teaching
You'll be taught through a mix of:
- lectures
- clinical skills workshops utilising role play
- talks by NHS-based clinicians
- individual and group-based clinical supervision sessions
- comprehensive online resources to support workshops
The course team has produced a library of DVD-based training resources that are available for trainees to purchase for a nominal sum.
Regular telephone and email contact between course team members and trainees is a feature of this course to support your daily clinical activities.
Assessment
You'll be assessed by:
- a systematic review of published evidence relating to a primary care mental health issues
- an essay on procedures around initial assessment of patients
- two exams
- two case reports of patients you have treated
- three placement-based assessments of your clinical competence.
Classroom hours
Students spend 12 months at the Universities of Stirling and Dundee. Clinical skills training is conducted both in supervised NHS placements and in face-to-face skills workshops at the universities.
This training is supported by online learning material. You must attend one or other of the universities for four days per month for nine months of the year, in addition to a two-week period during January for face-to-face clinical skills training.
