Core Values in Mental Health Practice

This module introduces students to the philosophical and ontological debates around the concept of mental health and explore the ideas which shape modern mental health practice. Underlying principles and values of therapeutic interventions will be explored from a range of cultural and socio-political viewpoints providing a global perspective on mental health practice. 

During this module, students will be encouraged to consider the concept of social recovery, psychological models of illness and health, and the implications of these factors on the management of mental health problems.  Students will critically analyse their current mental health (clinical) practice within a values-based framework of respect, dignity, collaboration and empathy. 

There will be a specific focus on identifying barriers to engagement and utilizing strategies to overcome these barriers.  Students will be encouraged to work collaboratively with service users to validate their hypotheses on the nature of mental health and the helping relationship.  (Clinical) supervision will be provided throughout this module to support and guide students. Issues relating to the nature of evidence and the application of evidence-based interventions within the students clinical workplace will be explored. 

Throughout the module, students will learn to: 

• Critically appraise the philosophical and ontological models underpinning the concept of mental health.
• Evaluate the development and impact of the recovery movement on the culture of mental health.
• Evaluate the impact of the recovery movement on therapeutic practice.
• Critically appraise the value base, current theory and evidence base for current approaches to mental health practice.
• Critically reflect on how current ideas in mental health can influence future practice 

Course delivery and assessment

This module adopts a ‘blended’ learning approach.  This module will be delivered online through a combination of self-paced study and live sessions with University of the West of Scotland (UWS) teaching staff.  Course materials will be accessible via our virtual learning environment and the course content will also be accessible online for a short time after the module has been delivered, allowing delegates to revisit aspects of teaching.  A detailed timetable for the module will be available prior to course commencement.  

Live sessions and weekly tutorials to be confirmed.

Delegates are required to complete assessments at the end of the module to demonstrate their knowledge.  Further information about the assessment methods and deadlines will be given to students soon after teaching begins.  

This is a Masters Level (SCQF Level 11) module and upon successful completion of the module, students will be awarded 20 credits. 

Funding 

This course may be available on a fully funded basis to some delegates through the Upskilling Fund.  Further details, including eligibility criteria, are available under Funding Support. 

If you have any questions, please contact us at cpd@uws.ac.uk.