Module overview
This module provides an introduction to the National Health Service (NHS) and an overview of mental health service provision for adults within the UK. Many of the lecturers on the Programme are practicing clinicians in the NHS and this will help you to understand the context in which they work.
The development of mental health provision for adults in low and middle income countries is explored. Consideration is given to the role and responsibilities of the Clinical Psychologist, highlighting ethical practice and requirements for registration with the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the requirements for professional registration outside the UK.
Coverage is given to guidelines affecting the practice of clinical psychologists including National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines and relevant Acts of Parliament. Consideration is
given to the application of ethical principles when working in countries which do not have professional registration of psychologists and limited funding for health services.
The module covers western models of diagnosis, DSM and ICD, and evaluates the medical model of diagnosis. Consideration is given to cross-cultural issues in diagnosis. The core competencies of clinical psychologists are covered with particular emphasis on assessment and formulation as an alternative to the medical model. The application of western concepts of mental health to other cultures is considered.