Foundations of International Psychiatry from Coursera

What are some of the skills required when interviewing patients? What information is required when taking a patient history or

completing a mental state examination? These are just some of the questions you'll seek answers to as you work through the course material.

Mental health is an important public issue across the world, and the role of the psychiatrist is crucial in helping to address these.

This course aims to give you a more nuanced understanding of the role of a psychiatrist, developing clinical skills and therapeutic relationships. Understanding the impact of mental illness in society and ethics in medicine are some of the key themes central to this course.

This course is designed to provide essential background knowledge and practical skills that apply to any

mental health clinical setting.

What's inside

Syllabus

Course introduction & communication

Welcome to The University of Melbourne Massive Open Online Course in International Psychiatry. This course has been designed to provide essential background knowledge and practical skills for health professionals working with mentally unwell patients. In this first week of the course, you will learn about the importance of good communication skills. Working effectively and collaboratively with patients is the goal of every mental health professional. This can often be challenging for practitioners, especially when patients are very unwell or reluctant to seek help. Good communication skills are essential to engage patients and families, and to build therapeutic relationships with our clients. In this module we will look at skills and concepts that come in useful when interviewing patients.

Clinical skills

Welcome to the Clinical Skills module. The focus of this week's learning will on skills and concepts that come in useful when documenting a psychiatric patient history.

Mental state examination

The Mental State Examination (MSE) is a core skill in psychiatry, and an integral part of the patient interview. This week we will look at each component of the MSE, and how to classify, interpret, and document the patient’s presentation

The Biopsychosocial Model

Now that you are familiar with the Mental State Examination, you will be required to write and submit your second peer reviewed assignment for this course - documenting a mental state examination. Later this week, we'll take a closer look at 'the biopsychosocial model' - a framework for integrating different aspects of the patient’s life into a wholistic understanding of their mental illness. In this module, you will learn about the model, and apply it to a clinical scenario.

Psychiatry in Society

Health professionals occupy an important role in society, and there are expectations about how they conduct themselves in this role. Sufferers of mental illness can be particularly vulnerable, and it’s important that the law and professional ethics are followed to protect them. Furthermore, societal and cultural factors have a significant influence on the manifestation and management of mental illnesses. In this module we will explore these important topics.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores the role of a psychiatrist extensively, which is highly relevant to psychiatry

Taught by Greg Shields and Mahesh Jayaram, who are recognized for their work in psychiatry

Builds a strong foundation for beginners interested in psychiatry

Covers topics that are highly relevant to clinical settings for mental health

Provides hands-on labs and interactive materials for practical learning

May require additional readings and resources beyond the course materials, but this is common in psychiatry education

Reviews summary

Psychiatry's <span>international foundations</span>

Learners say this course in international psychiatry is engaging and informative. Many learners note that they found the readings, videos, and assignments to be well made and useful. Learners say this course, which covers history taking, mental state examinations, and cultural impacts, is a good foundation course for healthcare professionals.

Learners say this is a good foundation course for healthcare professionals.

"very informative and helpful, as the name of the course suggests its foundation course and must have one"

"I think the video case studies were particularly well made"

"well thought and engaging (videos, reading materials and assignments)"

Learners often remark on how helpful the course is for their careers.

"It is best course to improve your knowledge specially if you are in health care profession"

"Learnt History Taking, MSE, and cultural impact which is helpful in various diagnoses"

"I learnt a great deal about the basics of psychiatry such as making a psychiatric history, mental state examination and formulation which I am sure will facilitate my career in future"

The well made videos, readings, and assignments help make this course engaging.

"The course materials provided were very helpful, informative, and educative"

"I think the video case studies were particularly well made"

"well thought and engaging (videos, reading materials and assignments)"

Learners often remark on the highly informative nature of this course.

"very excellent course"

"Leearning too much informative"

"very informative and helpful"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Foundations of International Psychiatry with these activities:

Join a study group to discuss course materials and prepare for assessments

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Collaborate with peers, compare perspectives, and enhance your understanding of the course content.

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Review Foundations of Psychiatry by Alan E. Gross

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Review key concepts and approaches in psychiatry to lay a foundation and build a stronger understanding.

View Research Design in Clinical Psychology on Amazon

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Create a presentation on the ethical considerations in psychiatric practice

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Develop a deeper understanding of the ethical principles and guidelines that govern psychiatric practice.

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Research and identify relevant ethical considerations in psychiatry
Organize and structure your presentation
Prepare visual aids and supporting materials
Rehearse your presentation
Deliver your presentation to peers or a mentor

Three other activities

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Show all six activities

Participate in an online course on psychopharmacology

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Enhance your knowledge of psychiatric medications, their mechanisms of action, and their use in treating mental health conditions.

Browse courses on Psychopharmacology

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Shadow a practicing psychiatrist for one week

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Gain practical insights and experience in a real-world psychiatric setting.

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Identify a practicing psychiatrist who is willing to mentor you
Secure necessary permissions and clearances
Observe the psychiatrist's interactions with patients
Participate in case discussions and team meetings
Document your observations and experiences

Write a case study report on a patient with a complex mental illness

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Integrate your knowledge of mental health assessment and treatment planning to develop a comprehensive patient care plan.

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Select a patient case that presents a complex mental health condition
Review the patient's medical history, assessment findings, and treatment経過
Analyze the patient's symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment plan
Identify areas for improvement in the patient's care
Write a report summarizing your findings and recommendations

Career center

Learners who complete Foundations of International Psychiatry will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists focus on the mental complexities of human illness and the use of sophisticated communication skills to evaluate and treat patients. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, can help build the essential background knowledge and practical skills required to be successful in this field. It offers insights into the role of a psychiatrist, allowing learners to develop the clinical skills and therapeutic relationships that are vital in this profession. Understanding the impact of mental illness in society and ethics in medicine, as covered in this course, would also be highly relevant for individuals pursuing a career as a Psychiatrist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Psychiatrist

Clinical Psychologist

Clinical Psychologists are responsible for diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, can provide a strong foundation for individuals interested in this career path. It offers comprehensive coverage of clinical skills, mental state examination, and the biopsychosocial model, which are all essential knowledge areas for Clinical Psychologists. By gaining a deeper understanding of mental illness and how to effectively engage with patients, learners can prepare themselves for success in this field.

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Mental Health Counselor

Mental Health Counselors provide support and guidance to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, can offer valuable insights into the field, particularly in terms of developing strong communication skills for patient engagement and building therapeutic relationships. Understanding the biopsychosocial model and mental state examination, as covered in this course, would also be beneficial for aspiring Mental Health Counselors.

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Social Worker

Social Workers provide support to individuals facing various social and emotional challenges, including mental health issues. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may be helpful for individuals interested in this field, as it offers insights into the biopsychosocial model, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of social, psychological, and biological factors in mental health. Understanding this model can enable Social Workers to better assess and address the needs of their clients.

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Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioners provide comprehensive healthcare services, including mental health assessments and interventions. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may offer some relevant knowledge, particularly in terms of understanding the mental state examination and the biopsychosocial model. These concepts can be valuable in assessing and managing patients with mental health concerns, complementing the clinical skills and knowledge Nurse Practitioners acquire in their training.

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Psychotherapist

Psychotherapists provide therapy and counseling services to individuals and groups seeking to improve their mental health and well-being. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may be helpful for those interested in pursuing this career, as it offers insights into effective communication skills, patient engagement, and building therapeutic relationships. Understanding the mental state examination and the biopsychosocial model can also provide valuable knowledge for Psychotherapists in their work.

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Addiction Counselor

Addiction Counselors support individuals struggling with substance use disorders and mental health issues. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may offer some relevant knowledge, particularly in terms of understanding the biopsychosocial model and its implications for addiction. The course also covers communication skills and patient engagement, which are essential for Addiction Counselors in building rapport and supporting clients in their recovery journey.

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Case Manager

Case Managers coordinate and manage care for individuals with complex health and social needs, including mental health challenges. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may offer some relevant knowledge, particularly in terms of understanding the biopsychosocial model and its implications for case management. The course also emphasizes communication skills and building relationships, which are essential for Case Managers in effectively advocating for their clients and ensuring access to appropriate services.

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Peer Support Specialist

Peer Support Specialists provide support and guidance to individuals with mental health challenges, drawing on their own lived experiences. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may offer some insights into mental health conditions and their impact, as well as effective communication and engagement strategies. Understanding the biopsychosocial model and the mental state examination can also provide valuable knowledge for Peer Support Specialists in supporting their peers.

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Health Educator

Health Educators promote health and well-being through education and outreach programs. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may offer some relevant knowledge, particularly in terms of understanding the biopsychosocial model and its implications for mental health. The course also covers communication skills and building relationships, which are essential for Health Educators in effectively delivering health promotion programs and materials.

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Gerontologist

Gerontologists study the social, psychological, and health aspects of aging. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may offer some insights into the mental health challenges faced by older adults and the biopsychosocial model's implications for their care. The course also covers communication skills and building relationships, which are essential for Gerontologists in effectively working with older adults and their families.

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School Counselor

School Counselors provide support and guidance to students facing academic, social, and emotional challenges. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may offer some insights into mental health conditions commonly experienced by children and adolescents and the biopsychosocial model's implications for their support. The course also covers communication skills and building relationships, which are essential for School Counselors in effectively working with students and their families.

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Correctional Officer

Correctional Officers are responsible for maintaining order and safety in correctional facilities. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may offer some insights into the mental health challenges faced by incarcerated individuals and the biopsychosocial model's implications for their care. The course also covers communication skills and building relationships, which are essential for Correctional Officers in effectively interacting with inmates and maintaining a safe environment.

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Law Enforcement Officer

Law Enforcement Officers are responsible for upholding the law and protecting the public. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may offer some insights into the mental health challenges faced by individuals involved in the criminal justice system. The biopsychosocial model can provide a framework for understanding the complex factors that contribute to criminal behavior and recidivism.

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Journalist

Journalists research, write, and report on current events and issues. This course, Foundations of International Psychiatry, may offer some insights into the mental health challenges faced by journalists, particularly those covering traumatic or sensitive topics. Understanding the biopsychosocial model and its implications for mental health can be helpful for journalists in maintaining their own well-being and supporting others.

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