The Psychological Interventions module explores with students some of the main approaches to interventions designed to help people cope with psychological difficulties. This module will build on a critical approach to research evidence which is at the forefront of knowledge in this field. Students will be expected to engage in critical discussion and debate.

Included in the module content are developments in:
- Cognitive-behavioural therapies
- Positive psychology interventions
- Counselling traditions such as integrative, psychodynamic/systemic and person-centred approaches
- Self help groups
- Health Psychology interventions

Research methodology particularly pertinent to psychological interventions, such as single case designs, will be reviewed.

An ESSAY length no more than 3,000 words weighted at 100% (Learning outcomes 1-4).

This assignment will ask students to:
- provide evidence of a thorough understanding and wider reading in terms of fundamental theoretical issues relating to psychological interventions
- demonstrate their knowledge and understanding through applying a critical and evaluative approach to thinking about the issues that are raised
- demonstrate their ability to construct and communicate a focused and appropriate argument (including consideration of alternatives)

Formative learning opportunities will be provided through activities on Blackboard, group and individual exercises and opportunities for discussion during contact time.

There will be 10 sessions and one revision/review session (total 22 contact hours). The sessions will be a mixture of taught lectures and workshops, discussions and class activities.

128 hours are planned for independent learning and assignment preparation. Blackboard exercises are offered to strengthen students' knowledge base and to illustrate topics introduced in lectures. Audiovisual material, exercises, case studies and group discussions will enhance lectures and where appropriate will also be made available through Blackboard. Additional reading is a necessary requirement to help develop and broaden knowledge. Students are required to undertake their own literature searches as well as being directed to a guided reading list.

Albery, I. and Munaf, M. (2008) Key concepts in health psychology. London: Sage
Cooper, M. (2008). Essential Research Findings in Counselling and Psychotherapy: The Facts are Friendly. London: Sage.
McLeod, J. (2003). An Introduction to Counselling (3rd ed.). Buckingham: Open University Press.
Wright, J. et al (2006). Learning Cognitive-behavior therapy: an illustrated guide. Washington DC: American Psychological Association.

Video/DVD
Textbooks and journals
Library access
Blackboard access

To be registered on any Psychology award with the exception of BSc Psychology and Counselling