This module builds upon the foundations from earlier modules within the award which focus on fundamental CBT principles and the application of these in work with people with common mental health difficulties. In this module consideration is given to how these strategies may be adapted in work with people with a range of complex mental health disorders including bipolar disorder and psychosis. In addition to a review of the theoretical frameworks which underpin CBT formulations for these disorders there is a reflection on the practical issues that arise in work with these client groups and how these may be best addressed. Through a combination of didactic teaching sessions, skills demonstration and role play and clinical examples the following are addressed:-

- Developing the required therapeutic and interpersonal style for work with people with complex mental illness
- Overcoming engagement difficulties with clients
- The impact of secondary mood/affect disturbances.
- Use of standardised measures and the development of idiosyncratic measures.
- Working with specific types of psychosis (Positive symptoms, Negative symptoms, Early onset psychosis and prodromal/at risk mental states, Depression with psychotic features).
- Formulation when encountering dual diagnosis.
- Work with bipolar disorder with perceived/subjective gains.
- Identification of appropriate targets for intervention based on individualized formulations.
- Utilization of current practice guidelines from the research literature to develop and deliver innovative and collaborative CBT interventions
- Adaptability in the face of difficulties
- The evidence base for CBT with people with complex mental illness
- Ethical considerations when conducting CBT with vulnerable people experiencing complex mental illness

Computer with internet access
Text books and learning materials as suggested
Opportunity to carry out supervised CBT assessment, formulation and intervention with clients with complex mental health needs in a clinical setting
A workplace-based clinical supervisor who works according to a CBT framework

Chadwick, P. (2006). Person-Based Cognitive Therapy for Distressing Psychosis. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Hagen, R. Turkington D. (2011) CBT for Psychosis. A Symptom Based Approach. Routledge

Lam, D (2010) Cognitive Therapy for Bi- Polar Disorder. A Therapists Guide to Concepts, Methods, and Practice. Second Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Morrison, A. Renton J. Dunn H. Williams. Bentall R (2004) Cognitive Therapy for Psychosis. A Formulation Based Approach. Brunner- Routledge

Lectures - 31.5 - spread over nine half day sessions over an eight week period
Skills Workshops - 31.5 - spread over nine half day sessions over an eight week period

Independent Study Hours:

Reading/research - 30
Listening to therapy tapes - 20
Assessment preparation - 37

1) 3000 word case study based on material from clinical experience (50%)
Addresses learning outcomes 1,2,3 and 4

2) Audio tape of client session and 1000 word process report (50%)
Addresses learning outcome 5

To pass the module it is necessary for both of the above assignments to be passed

Additional Assessment Details:
Formative feedback on sections of tapes of client sessions is offered during award-based supervision groups