Graduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology (GD-CLINPSY) // Attributes, outcomes and skills

Knowledge

Graduates will apply advanced psychological knowledge of the following to their practice in clinical psychology:

• Psychological theories of the aetiology, progression and/or recovery, precursors and sequelae of psychological disorders, including incidence, prevalence and predisposing, risk, protective and maintenance factors
• Both developmental systems and biopsychosocial models of health as they apply to psychological disorders as well as the multiple factors that impinge on mental health across the lifespan
• Psychopathology and relevant international taxonomies of classification of psychological disorders, including severe, complex and chronic mental illness
• Psychopharmacology, particularly as it relates to complex psychological disorders.

Skills

Graduates will apply advanced psychological knowledge to culturally responsive assessment in the area of clinical psychology, including:

• Evaluation of psychological disorders with reference to relevant international taxonomies of classification, including disorders of moderate to severe level and complexity
• Use of assessment tools and processes related to a wide range of psychological disorders, and including psychometric tests, structured or semi-structured interviews, behavioural observations, measures of functionality and processes that enable collection of collateral information from multiple sources, including groups and systems relevant to the client
• Integration, interpretation, and synthesis of clinical psychological assessment data with the knowledge of psychopathology to inform case formulation, diagnosis and intervention
• Evaluation of symptom reduction, therapeutic outcomes, the therapeutic alliance and client progress throughout therapy.

Application of skills and knowledge

Graduates will apply advanced psychological knowledge to culturally responsive interventions in the area of clinical psychology, including:

• Selection, tailoring and implementation of appropriate evidence-based interventions on the basis of an initial case formulation, whether individuals, dyads or carers/dependents
• Monitoring of outcomes and modifications based on evolving case formulation and intra- and interpersonal processes, with care given to the appropriateness of interventions for the client or clients within their wider context
• Consultation and collaboration with other professionals regarding clinical planning and referrals, particularly in the context of complex case presentations
• Evidence-based practice in the understanding and management of psychological disorders, including across the age range and across modalities such as e-health approaches.

The course provides comprehensive training in skills and competencies relevant to practice as a clinical psychologist. On completion of this course the students should have developed:

• Critical thinking, analytical and problem solving skills
• The ability to integrate theory and practice and to apply this in novel situations
• An openness to new ideas
• Planning and time management skills
• The ability to communicate their knowledge in both oral and written form
• The ability to behave in a professionally appropriate manner.

Academic distinction

• Advanced psychological knowledge related to practice in clinical psychology, including identification and treatment of a range of mental health conditions that present across the lifespan
• Critical, creative thinking with strong reasoning skills. They can apply psychological knowledge, information and research skills to complex problems relating to mental health and illness, human behaviour, and behavioural change
• Employ professional communication skills, in a culturally responsive manner, with a range of socially and culturally diverse clients
• They are adept lifelong learners who generate bold and novel ideas by critically evaluating alternative possibilities and viewpoints.

Active citizenship

• A high regard for human rights, social inclusion, ethics and the environment
• Be engaged with contemporary local, national, and global issues
• An awareness of the social and cultural diversity in communities and can work collaboratively with people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds
• In particular, they have an understanding of, and deep respect for, Indigenous knowledge, culture and values.
• They are equipped to be active, well-informed citizens who make substantial contributions to society, and have the potential to become leaders in their professions and communities.

Integrity and self-awareness

• Self-direction, with the ability to set goals and manage time and priorities
• The ability to work effectively both independently and in groups
• Skills in self-assessment, reflective thinking and self-awareness; placing great importance on their personal and professional integrity, and on the willingness to explore, experiment and learn from mistakes
• Empathy and concern for the welfare of others and have developed skills in managing their own well-being
• The ability to manage uncertainty
• The ability to respond constructively to appraisal, performance review or assessment.