About this course

This course offers a foundation in developing a clinical understanding of direct experience with service users. It provides a theoretical framework for students to develop their knowledge of and capacity to apply psychoanalytic concepts in their work within mental health care.

This course aims to:

• support students in developing their dynamic understanding and experience of direct work with patients in a mental health setting
• provide an understanding of human development, the impact of developmental and emotional difficulties in the context of social, economic and cultural circumstances, and the relevance of this to mental health work
• develop students’ awareness and understanding of issues relating to equality, diversity and inclusion
• explore the impact of equality, diversity and inclusion issues on us as individuals and organisations, both in relation to our practice and our understanding and application of psychoanalytic theory
• develop the capacity for more meaningful, accurate risk assessment
• develop an appreciation of the therapeutic use of self in clinical practice
• reflect on the importance of conscious and unconscious communications in the workplace
• develop awareness of professional roles, relationships and clinical dilemmas in practice

Through a combination of applied theory seminars and work discussion groups you will develop an understanding of the underlying dynamics present in the complexities of the healthcare environment.

This course will improve your understanding of clinical and institutional dynamics, including complicated dynamics around experiences of sameness and difference which are at play within these processes.

At the heart of the course is the work discussion group which enables you to gain an understanding of the emotional challenges inherent in mental health work. This provides a valuable development opportunity for those with little clinical experience and offers a refreshing and stimulating approach for experienced mental health workers.

The seminars offer a synthesis of theoretical seminars with work discussion which enables students to reflect on how theory can allow for a deeper understanding of their work within mental health services.

This deeper understanding can improve patient care, maintain professional roles and relationships, improve risk assessment and lead to a better understanding of our patient’s experience as well as our own.

Tutorials are offered throughout the course, enabling you to consider your work in depth and to discuss your professional development, and plans for further training, where appropriate.