BSc (Hons) The Dynamics of Mental Health Practice (top–up) (ref. D65)
This programme will be of interest and value to all professionals working in mental health care and particularly nurses wishing to top-up their Higher DipEd. to graduate level.
The programme aims to develop knowledge and clinical capabilities and provides the theoretical framework for this progression. It promotes the therapeutic relationship and the teaching is centered around the clinical experience of the professional.
The psychodynamic model is shown to be very effective in providing a framework for all clinical staff working within mental health. Through a combination of theoretical lectures, clinical case discussion, reading and research seminars, the student will develop an understanding of the underlying dynamics present in the complexities of the healthcare environment. The programme will also improve the students understanding of institutional dynamics, together with staff management and clinical supervision. This leads to greater satisfaction for the individual at work, which in turn improves patient care and helps prevent staff burnout.
Who the programme is for
There are primarily two groups of people who would benefit from this programme:
- Nurses and other mental health practitioners with 240 credits at DipHe level or equivalent. This will normally constitute the professional qualification in nursing, social work or occupational therapy. These students are able to complete years 1 and 2 in order to gain the BSc Hons Top Up. Students who have previously completed the Advanced Diploma in the Dynamics of Mental Health Practice within the last five years can return to complete the BSc Top Up in the second year.
- Non-professionally qualified people who are either working or volunteering in Mental Health settings may complete year 1 in order to gain a stand alone Advanced Diploma.
Aims
To:
- provide an understanding of normal and abnormal human development and its relevance to mental health work
- develop the capacity for more meaningful, accurate risk assessment
- enhance safe practice
- develop an appreciation of the therapeutic use of self in clinical practice
- reflect on the importance of conscious and unconscious communications in the work place
- identify and understand individual and group processes that interfere with effective team working
- develop skills to monitor self in relation to others in the workplace.
Assessment
The award is BSc (Hons) The Dynamics of Mental Health Practice (top-up). It is accredited by Middlesex University and the successful student will receive 120 credits at level 6. There are six modules which run over two years (three per year) and consist of some course work and five written assignments. An Advanced Diploma is awarded to successful candidates if they choose to step off after the first year.
Duration
23 attendance days per academic year.
Time commitment
23 days per year. One day per week.
