The module will focus on differential treatment planning and an Integrative approach to psychotherapy. Emphasis will be placed on exploring disorders of the self and on differing models for assessing and working with presentations of trauma. Consideration will also be given to particular issues, such as shame, anxiety and depression.

Indicative Content may include:
• Techniques, interventions and strategies within different modalities
• Critique of psychotherapy and counselling from diversity perspectives
• Outcome research and clinical practice
• Clinical treatment planning
• The impact of trauma
• Structural Dissociation of the personality
• Models for assessment, formulation and treatment planning
• Disorders of the self
• Research evidence from neuroscience and psychobiology

Essay (4,000 words +/- 10%) assessing learning outcomes 1-4
Additional Assessment Details (include formative feedback / assessment):
• Formative feedback is given by peers and tutors in relation to small/large group supervised clinical practice throughout the module

Total hours: 40
• Group process – 12 hours
• Experiential and theoretical learning – 14 hours
• Supervised clinical practice in small groups – 9 hours
• Self-reflective journal writing – 2 hours
• student-focused activities encouraging active participation,(including tutorials, accessing electronic systems and support staff for data, literature, resources and contacts) – 3 hours

Total hours 160
Guided Independent Study is considered to include:
• Reading, research and assignment preparation (100 hours)
• Placement attendance (33 hours)
• Personal Therapy and Supervision attendance with a trained professional (27 hours)

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.

Benjamin, L. S. (1993) Interpersonal Diagnosis and Treatment of Personality Disorders. New York: Guilford Press

Johnson, S. (1994) Character Styles. London: Norton

• Access to an approved placement which provides suitable learning opportunities
• Access to a suitably qualified supervisor to provide the required ratio of supervision hours to clinical practice
• Access to a suitably qualified therapist to provide the required sessions of personal therapy
• Access to recording equipment

1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the DSM system of diagnosis, together with an ability to identify and evaluate a range of client clinical presentations and establish suitability for psychotherapy.
(Knowledge & understanding, Problem solving)

2. Demonstrate the independent learning ability required to connect knowledge and understanding of diagnosis with assessment and clinical treatment planning.
(Learning, Knowledge & Understanding)

3. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding and critical evaluation of the differing impacts of trauma, linking this to clinical practice.
(Enquiry, Application)

4. Demonstrate the qualities and skills necessary for reflexivity in relation to personal and experiential material.
(Reflection)