MASTER OF PSYCHOLOGY (CLINICAL) PHD (CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY) 2014 Information for Prospective Students

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1 Disclaimer and Copyright Information This publication has been written specifically for prospective students who are Australian or New Zealand citizens, or have Australian resident status. Information in this publication is correct at the time of printing, but may change from time to time. For the most up-to-date details on Curtin s prerequisites, refer to the TISC website at: tisc.edu.au Curtin will not be liable to you or to any other person for any loss or damage (including direct, consequential or economic loss or damage) however caused and whether by negligence or otherwise which may result directly or indirectly from the use of this publication. International students please note: This publication is intended for Australian citizens and permanent residents only. As some information contained in this publication may not be applicable, international students should refer to: international.curtin.edu.au or phone for further information. Part-time study, external study and online learning is only available to international students studying outside Australia. International students studying on a student visa in Australia cannot study part-time or externally. Some courses are not available to international students. Copyright Curtin University This publication is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes of private study, research, criticism or review, as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission. Published by Curtin University. CRICOS Provider code 00301J (WA), 02637B (NSW). Curtin University is a trademark of Curtin University of Technology. Inquiries and Applications: To apply, please visit Future Students futurestudents.curtin.edu.au for detail information. Please read the information regarding supplementary information required when applying: how-to-get-in/supplementary-info.cfm Inquiries about applying and other general information can be directed to the Future Students Centre: Tel: futurestudents@exchange.curtin.edu.au Specific inquiries about the course, eligibility and selection procedures may be addressed to: Miss Kristina Sfreddo Academic and Courses Support Officer kristina.sfreddo@curtin.edu.au healthsciences.curtin.edu.au HEALTH SCIENCES School of Psychology and Speech Pathology MASTER OF PSYCHOLOGY (CLINICAL) PHD (CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY) 2014 Information for Prospective Students 1 ADV

2 2 CONTENTS About the Master and PhD in Clinical Psychology...2 Graduate Destinations...2 Management of Progress through the Programs...3 Liaison with the Professional Community...3 Assessment...3 Recognition of Prior Learning...3 Policy on Plagiarism and Related Academic Conduct...3 Course Expenses...3 Master of Psychology (Clinical) Program...4 Course Objectives...4 Core capabilities and attributes...4 Program Structure...4 Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites...4 Duration and Availability...4 The Master of Psychology Course Structure...5 Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology)...6 Course Objectives...6 Overarching Outcomes...6 Specific Learning Outcomes...7 Program Structure...7 Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites...7 Duration and Availability...7 The Doctor of Philosophy Course Structure...8 Unit Descriptions...9 Program Staff and Research Interests...10 Inquiries and Applications...12 ABOUT THE MASTER AND PHD IN CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY Clinical psychology is one of a number of specialisations in professional psychology. Similar to psychologists who practice in other specialist areas such as organisational psychology, counselling psychology and forensic psychology, clinical psychologists hold a Master or PhD degree from a program accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). At Curtin University, clinical psychology is offered as a specific major stream within the Master of Psychology program and as a full PhD program. Graduates will be eligible to register with the Psychology Board of Australia and commence supervision for the purpose of gaining registration and endorsement as a Clinical Psychologist. The Master of Psychology (Clinical) provides advanced professional training to the sixth year level. The program is accredited with the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council. The course is a two-year full-time program (or equivalent part-time) consisting of course work, practicum and a dissertation. Graduates of the program will be entitled to endorsed registration as a Clinical Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia, once they complete two years of supervision as a clinical psychologist registrar. The PhD (Clinical Psychology) consists of the units in the Master program plus a traditional PhD dissertation. The program meets all of the criteria listed above for APAC and the Psychology Board of Australia. The PhD is a four-year full-time (or eight-year part-time) program. A normal PhD is three years full-time and the Master is two years full-time, so the PhD (Clinical Psychology) reduces the amount of time involved in study, for those pursuing a combined program. Another advantage of the PhD (Clinical Psychology) is that all program fees for domestic students are covered through automatic university scholarships, meaning that students pay no fees for all of their Master units. The PhD prepares graduates for the professional practice of clinical psychology, for research in psychology, and for an academic career. Management of Progress through the Programs Each student is supervised in her/his studies by a committee composed of the clinical psychology course faculty. This committee may meet with the student from time-to-time and will monitor her/his progress through all facets of the program. The doctoral component will be monitored through the School Postgraduate Committee. Liaison with the Professional Community A Course Advisory Committee meets regularly to confer on matters related to the clinical program. It assists annually in the selection of students for the following year s intake. The committee consists of Curtin Clinical Faculty, student representatives and senior Clinical Psychologists from major government authorities. During 2013, these senior clinicians include: Ms Margaret Jones Consultant Clinical Psychologist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Health Department of WA Dr Monique Nesa Clinical Psychologist Disability Services Commisssion Ms Annette Paul Clinical Psychologist Department for Child Protection Dr Veronica Edwards Senior Clinical Psychologist Department for Child Protection Ms Teresa Stevenson Senior Clinical Psychologist Adult Services Health Department of WA Assessment Assessment includes a combination of class participation, written reports, case studies, substantive papers, and formal examinations. Students must also satisfy attendance requirements for each unit. All written assignments must be submitted in accordance with Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association: Sixth Edition (2009) ( org/). To complete the requirements for award of the degree, students must pass all units in the program. Recognition of Prior Learning Comparable units taken at Australian Psychological Society (APS) accredited Psychology Master programs may be exempted. Units taken overseas may also be exempted but will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Policy on Plagiarism and Related Academic Conduct All work submitted must be the original work of students unless otherwise specified. All work must conform to Curtin University policies on Academic Conduct (see Academic Misconduct Procedure, Plagiarism Policy and Procedures or Curtin Courses Handbook). Course Expenses For detail information about course expenses, please refer to fees.curtin.edu.au 3 Graduate Destinations Graduates of the clinical psychology course are very highly regarded and highly successful at competing for jobs. The areas that graduates typically work in upon completion are: Government agencies eg. Child and Adult Mental Health Services; Private agencies and hospitals eg. Perth Clinic; Child Development Centres; Department for Child Protection; Disability Services Commission; Private practice; University counselling services; University teaching departments.

3 4 MASTER OF PSYCHOLOGY (CLINICAL) PROGRAM Course Objectives The Master degree in clinical psychology provides advanced professional training to the sixth year level and has been accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). Its aim is to enable students to become thoroughly familiar with the theoretical and empirical knowledge base, skills and attributes required of a Clinical Psychologist in community and institutional health, mental health and rehabilitation settings. This course provides sound training in the application of psychological science to the prevention and treatment of psychological problems. This major will provide you with the knowledge, skills and experience you need to practise as a Clinical Psychologist in both the mental and physical health domains. You will be trained in the application of psychological science to the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of physical and mental health problems. Much of the studies will focus on community-based interventions. Core capabilities and attributes: A graduate of the Master of Psychology (Clinical) will: 1. Have an overall knowledge of the discipline, undermining all of the other capabilities, including knowledge of psychological principles, professional ethics and standards, theories of individual and systemic functioning and change, dysfunctional behaviour, psychopathology, the cultural bases of behaviour and organisational systems. 2. Understand the ethical, legal and professional aspects of psychological practice. 3. Understand the ongoing, interactive, and inclusive process that serves to describe, conceptualise, and predict relevant aspects of a client. 4. Undertake activities that promote, restore, sustain or enhance cognitive functioning and a sense of well-being in individuals or groups of clients through preventive, developmental or remedial services and/ or in the case of groups or organizations, restoring or enhancing group or organizational functioning. 5. Perform systematic inquiry involving problem identification and the acquisition, organisation, and interpretation of information allowing critical analysis and disciplined, rigorous, careful and scientific inquiry into psychological phenomena. 6. Have the capacity to convey, appraise and interpret information in both oral and written formats and to interact on a professional level with a wide range of client groups and other professionals. Program Structure The program consists of three main components: coursework, practicum placements, and a research dissertation. The coursework provides intensive training in clinical psychology. Coursework seminars focus on the understanding and management of significant mental and physical health problems with approaches ranging from individual-oriented to community-based. While the main focus of training is on individual treatment approaches, there is also a focus on larger scale interventions, particularly those involving primary prevention methods. The coursework seminars involve an integration of theory, specific intervention skills training, and the development of analytical skills. Students also participate in three practicum placements, which complement the coursework and enable the application of theory and skills training to clinical practice. These placements cover adult and child problems, institutional and non-institutional settings, acute care and rehabilitation with the disabled, in both medical and nonmedical agencies. Practicum placements include a total of 135 days or 1,020 hours of supervised practise conducted by a registered Clinical Psychologist. A major aim of the research component is to acquaint students with research and evidence-based practice in clinical and health psychology and for them to develop the capacity to review research reports critically, and to develop and conduct their own research project. Coursework material and assignments will encourage students to think critically and to evaluate theories, research, and case reports. The training will provide a framework and basis for a publishable research dissertation to be completed by each student in an area of clinical psychology. Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites A four-year Bachelor of Psychology or equivalent, approved by the Australian Psychological Society (APS) is required for admission. Duration and Availability The course is two years full-time or equivalent part-time study. COURSE STRUCTURE Master of Psychology Clinical Psychology Major Year Units Required Unit Name Contact Hours Year 1, Semester Psychology Clinical Child Psychology Preparation for Professional Clinical Practice Psychology Psychological Assessment Psychology Adult Psychopathology 4 25 Year 1, Semester Psychology Child Psychotherapy and Disability Psychology Psychotherapy Psychology Research Methods Psychology Practicum Psychology Social and Behavioural Health 4 25 Year 2, Semester Psychology Addictions, Clinical Neuropsychology and Pharmacology Psychology Practicum Psychology Dissertation Preparation Year 2, Semester Psychology Psychotherapy Psychology Child Psychotherapy and Disability Psychology Practicum Psychology Dissertation Preparation Total Course Credits 400 Credit Points 5

4 6 DOCT OF PHILOSOPHY (CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY) Course Objectives The Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology) course combines advanced professional training in clinical psychology with the opportunity to carry out a specialised research program at the traditional PhD level. This course prepares students for careers in the professional practice of clinical psychology, for research in clinical psychology, and for an academic career. The coursework component of the course provides professional training to the sixth year level and has been accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). This course aims to enable students to become thoroughly familiar with the theoretical and empirical knowledge base and skills required of a clinical psychologist in community and institutional health, mental health and rehabilitation settings, as well as preparation for a research career. Overarching Outcomes A graduate of the Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology): 1. Has knowledge skills and practical experience necessary for competent practice as a clinical psychologist in both the mental health and physical health domains. 2. Is a competent entry level scientist-practitioner of clinical psychology. 3. Abides by the code of ethics of the Australian Psychological Society. 4. Is an effective beginning level independent researcher in psychology. Specific Learning Outcomes 1. Construct an adequate psychological case conceptualisation. 2. Think critically, creatively and reflectively. 3. Test hypotheses related to the case conceptualisation and develop management plans. 4. Think creatively and apply knowledge to new situations. 5. Analyse problems logically from different theoretical viewpoints and propose resolutions between apparent conflicts of different theories. 6. Communicate effectively with individuals and groups. 7. Write effectively for clients, professionals, management and scientific publications. 8. Use evidence persuasively to construct and defend an argument. 9. Learn and use technologies safely and appropriately for the diagnosis and management of clients and information. 10. Accept responsibility and demonstrate initiative and leadership in developing clinical and research skills. 11. Apply global perspectives and standards in clinical practice. 12. Apply global perspectives and standards of practice in meeting the needs of ethnic and other minority groups. 13. Work professionally both individually and collaboratively, accepting responsibility and direction as necessary to achieve an effective team outcome. 14. Abide by the code of ethics of the Australian Psychological Society. Program Structure The program consists of three main components: coursework, practicum placements and a research thesis. The coursework provides intensive training in clinical psychology. Coursework seminars focus on the understanding and management of significant physical health and mental health problems with approaches ranging from individual-oriented to community-based. While the main focus of training is on individual and group treatment approaches, there is also a focus on family interventions and interventions involving primary prevention methods. The coursework seminars involve an integration of theory, specific intervention skills training and the development of analytical skills. The coursework acquaints trainees with research in clinical and health psychology, clinical guidelines for treatment and prevention of mental health problems, and empirically based interventions for children and adults. Trainees develop the capacity to review research critically, and to develop and conduct their own research project. Coursework material and assignments will encourage trainees to think critically and to evaluate theories and research reports. The research component involves the development and execution of a substantial program of research that contributes substantially to the knowledge or understanding in a field. This work indicates that the trainee is capable of carrying out independent research. For the PhD in Clinical Psychology the project must have some relevance to clinical psychology. Doctoral research degree candidates should uncover new knowledge either by the discovery of new facts, the formulation of theories or the innovative re-interpretation of known data and established ideas. The thesis research should include a program of inquiry, which is practically oriented and useful in developing an effective understanding, providing for the application of solutions to problems associated with clinical psychology. Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites The minimum requirement for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (Clinical Psychology) program is an Honours degree (IIA or higher) or equivalent. Applicants will be evaluated on academic merit, referees reports, proposed course of research, performance in interviews, and relevant work experience. For students already/previously enrolled in the Master of Psychology (Clinical) course or equivalent, a high standard of performance in Master of Psychology units will also be required for entry into the program. Duration and Availability The course is available on a full-time (minimum of four years) and on a part-time (maximum of eight years) basis. Trainees are expected to spend eleven months per year on the program for the duration of the course. 7 Trainees also participate in three practicum placements, which complement the coursework and enable the application of theory and skills training to clinical practice. These placements cover adult and child problems, institutional and non-institutional settings, acute care and rehabilitation with the disabled, in both medical and nonmedical agencies. Practicum placements include a total of 135 days or 1,020 hours of supervision by a practising Clinical Psychologist.

5 8 COURSE STRUCTURE Doctor of Philosophy Clinical Psychology Year Units Required Unit Name Contact Hours Year 1, Semester Doctoral Thesis - Psychology Psychology Clinical Child Psychology Adult Psychopathology Psychology Preparation for Professional Clinical Practice 4 25 Year 1, Semester Doctoral Thesis - Psychology Psychology Research Methods Psychology Social and Behavioural Health 4 25 Year 2, Semester Doctoral Thesis - Psychology Psychology Psychological Assessment Psychology Practicum (Clinical) Year 2, Semester Doctoral Thesis - Psychology Psychology Psychotherapy Psychology Child Psychotherapy and Disability Psychology Practicum (Clinical) Disability/Rehab Year 3, Semester Doctoral Thesis - Psychology Psychology Practicum 798 (Clinical) Psychology Clinical Child Psychology Adult Psychopathology 4 25 Year 3, Semester Doctoral Thesis - Psychology Psychology Psychotherapy Psychology Child Psychotherapy and Disability Psychology Practicum (Clinical) Year 4, Semester Doctoral Thesis - Psychology Psychology Addictions, Clinical Neuropsychology and Pharmacology 4 25 Year 4, Semester Doctoral Thesis - Psychology 575 Credit Points UNIT DESCRIPTIONS Psychology 793 Clinical Child This unit provides theoretical knowledge and practical experience in clinical child psychology. The unit explores the etiology, assessment, diagnosis, conceptualisation, and treatment of clinical problems of children and adolescents. These problems will be considered within the relevant social context, such as the family, the school, and children s friendships. The unit covers the most common child clinical problems as well as best practice guidelines and empirically validated interventions. Psychology 795 Preparation for Professional Clinical Practice In this unit there is a strong emphasis on role plays and practicing case examples to allow experiential learning to assist in integrating the information from readings and information that is presented and discussed in seminars. Individual perceptions and reflections are encouraged to be shared with the group to facilitate learning and greater understanding of issues. There is also an emphasis on ethical and legal issues in practice as a clinical psychologist so a range of ethical issues will be posed through case studies and role play. There is also an emphasis on self-care which can sometimes be forgotten when dealing with client issues. Psychology 711 Psychological Assessment This unit provides you with the practical skills to complete comprehensive psychological assessments within adult and child clinical contexts. You will be learning skills required to select, administer, score and interpret the results of commonly used psychological tests, and to integrate assessment results and present findings in client-focused reports. Psychology 722 Adult Psychopathology This unit aims to increase your understanding of common psychological disorders, including their aetiology, maintaining mechanisms, and effective treatment. Psychology 724 Child Psychotherapy and Developmental Disability The first part of this unit provides you with child and adolescent psychotherapy skills and processes. It includes: (a) core principles of child, adolescent and family psychotherapy processes; (b) skills development in the application of psychotherapy processes; and (c) review of your videotaped psychotherapy sessions. The second part of the unit provides you with an understanding of the physiological, behavioural and social consequences associated with developmental disabilities, and strategies to assess, intervene and support the quality of life of individuals with a disability and their families. Psychology Psychotherapy This unit provides for you to develop all aspects of your competence as a psychotherapist. The unit has three main components: (i) a theoretical component in which core principles of the psychotherapy process are introduced and discussed and in which research on the components of effective therapy are reviewed; (ii) a skills development component in which the application of psychotherapy processes are modelled, practiced, criticised, and rehearsed; and (iii) a supervision component in which videotapes of participants psychotherapy sessions are reviewed. Psychology 703 Research Methods The focus of this online unit is on quantitative, rather than qualitative, research methodologies. It consists of eight core modules, and three elective modules. You are expected to complete all the core modules plus two of the three elective modules. On completion of the unit, you should be able to resolve the common methodological problems that have traditionally compromised research in the behavioural sciences. Psychology 723 Social and Behavioural Health The content of this unit has been designed to foster an understanding of both clinical health problems and health promotion in health psychology. There will be a strong emphasis on conceptualisation of clinical health problems as well as evidence based interventions. The unit starts with an overview of health psychology and the first set of seminars cover the clinical health problems of postnatal depression and sexual dysfunction where re-occurring issues concerning relationship problems are addressed and an introduction to couple therapy is provided. Additional clinical problems covered include pain and obesity. Finally, health promotion and prevention issues, as well as crosscultural and indigenous issues in health psychology will be presented. The content is structured so that theoretical perspectives of health psychology are integrated with practical applications of interventions. Psychology 725 Addictions, Clinical Neuropsychology and Pharmacology You will be provided with an understanding of addiction behaviour and how to respond to it from a psychological perspective. The addiction seminars will focus on etiology, assessment, case conceptualisation and a range of responses to people with addiction problems. There will be particular emphasis on responding to clients with addiction and other psychological difficulties. Psychology Research Dissertation (1 699 & 2 699) These two units involve the planning, execution and reporting of a suitable applied research project, relating to the coursework undertaken. Psychology Practicum 696, 697 & 698, 796, 797 & 798 You are assigned to an agency to carry out negotiated professional duties (usually 2 days/week). You are also required to attend a fortnightly placement class involving case presentations and written case formulations. Over the three placements a combined total of 133 days should be completed. All three practicum placements provide opportunities to practice clinical skills such as, assessment, case conceptualisation, treatment (individual, group and family), and rehabilitation, under the supervision of registered clinical psychologists. The specific opportunities and learning outcomes will depend on the particular placement. 9

6 10 PROGRAM STAFF AND RESEARCH INTERESTS 11 As well as being academics with research interests, all the staff have experience as practitioners and all continue to be actively involved in psychotherapy with clients. Dr Sarah Egan MPsych (Clinical), PhD Program Director Research interests include perfectionism, eating disorders, OCD, and CBT in older adults. Dr Rebecca Anderson MPsych (Clinical), PhD Lecturer Research interests include generalised anxiety disorder, OCD, health anxiety, chronic worry and rumination. Dr Robert Kane PhD Senior Lecturer Research interests include meta-analysis, structural equation modelling, mixed efforts regression, multilevel modelling, and multivariate analysis. Dr Clair Lawson MPsych (Clinical), PhD Lecturer Research interests include mood disorders and associated cognitive biases, and OCD and CBT with children and adolescents. Dr Trevor Mazzucchelli MPsych (Clinical), PhD Lecturer Research interests include behavioural activation, depression, disability, family intervention, parent training, self-regulation, and wellbeing. Associate Professor Clare Rees MPsych (Clinical), PhD Research interests include nature and treatment of anxiety disorders (particularly OCD), telepsychology and videoconferencing, personality, and evidence-based therapy. Associate Professor Clare Roberts MPsych (Clinical), PhD Research interests include mental health promotion, prevention of clinical disorders, child clinical problems, family and school interventions, and developmental disabilities. Dr Rosanna Rooney MPsych (Clinical), PhD Senior Lecturer Research interests include depression, postnatal depression, mental health across cultures, and anxiety and depression in children and couples. Dr Monika Wieding-Allison PhD Associate Lecturer Monika is an Associate Lecturer at the School since August She teaches postgraduates in Psychological Assessment 711 as well as undergraduates in the units Psychology of Learning 211 and Child Developmental Psychology 213.