Psychopathology Assessment: Cognitive, Psychotic, and Affective Disorders 

30 hours with additional hours of clinical supervision.

This comprehensive 30-hour course, supplemented by clinical supervision, provides an in-depth examination of cognitive, psychotic, and affective disorders. Participants will explore the foundational principles and theories underpinning these disorders, gaining a deep understanding of their symptoms, origins, and impacts on individuals.

This comprehensive, 30-hour course, supplemented by clinical supervision, provides an in-depth examination of cognitive, psychotic, and affective disorders. Participants will explore the foundational principles and theories underpinning these disorders, gaining a deep understanding of their symptoms, origins, and impacts on individuals.

In the psychotic disorders segment, the course delves into schizophrenia and related conditions, exploring their etiology, symptomatology, and the impact of psychosis on perception, thought processes, and behavior. Participants will examine the role of genetic, biochemical, and environmental factors in the development of psychotic disorders.

The affective disorders section addresses major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and related mood disturbances. The course emphasizes the biological, psychological, and social contributors to these disorders, as well as their clinical manifestations and diagnostic criteria.

Throughout the course, participants will engage in detailed discussions on the treatment considerations and therapeutic interventions for each disorder. By the end of the course, learners will have a comprehensive understanding of cognitive, psychotic, and affective disorders, equipped with practical skills for effective assessment and intervention.

• Cognitive Disorders:
  • Neurobiological and Cognitive-Behavioral Perspectives: Detailed exploration of disorders such as dementia and delirium.
  • Symptom Identification and Cognitive Impairment: Understanding the neurological factors influencing cognitive functioning.
• Psychotic Disorders:
  • Schizophrenia and Related Conditions: In-depth study of etiology, symptomatology, and impacts on perception, thought processes, and behavior.
  • Genetic, Biochemical, and Environmental Factors: Examination of the roles these factors play in the development of psychotic disorders.
• Affective Disorders:
  • Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Mood Disturbances: Focus on biological, psychological, and social contributors.
  • Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Criteria: Understanding how these disorders present and how they are diagnosed.

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, participants will:

• Self-Evaluation and Development: Understand and apply processes for self-evaluation, recognizing how attitudes, biases, power, and privilege influence perceptions.
• Intake and Assessment Skills: Apply and evaluate semi-structured intake and assessment processes.
• DSM-5 and Differential Diagnosis: Understand and assess DSM-5 processes for differential diagnosis and diagnostic assessment.
• Case Conceptualization: Learn the role of case conceptualization in diagnostic and treatment planning.
• Evidence-Based Interventions: Understand, apply, and evaluate evidence-based intervention plans.

Assessment Methods

• Research Review Discussions: Engaging in discussions based on current research.
• Supervised Case Reviews: Practical application through supervised case evaluations.
• Academic Paper: Completion of an academic paper demonstrating understanding and competencies in the areas covered.

Participants will engage in detailed discussions on the treatment considerations and therapeutic interventions for each disorder. By the end of the course, learners will have a comprehensive understanding of cognitive, psychotic, and affective disorders, equipped with practical skills for effective assessment and intervention.

Clinical Supervisor

Karen Redhill-Feinstein M.A. C.Psych. Assoc.
Registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario
Practice in Clinical and Rehabilitation Psychology
Reg. # 5265