Clinical Applications of Psychology MSc

Kingston University

The dissertation project will be based on a critical literature review addressing complex and contradictory evidence. It will usually require carrying out an empirical study using one or more methodologies of data collection such as experiments, observation, psychometric testing, surveys and questionnaires, interviews and field studies. In all cases, the dissertation will involve the analysis of quantitative and/or qualitative data, as well as the presentation and critical evaluation of research findings. Through independent study and meetings with a project supervisor, the dissertation project will enable you to better understand the role of research methodologies, theoretical considerations and ethical issues in psychological research.

The module provides an advanced coverage of the design and analysis of psychological research. Building on a revision of intermediate inferential statistics (e.g. ANOVA, factorial ANOVA, regression and multiple regression), the course moves quickly towards a consideration of more advanced and specialised quantitative methods (e.g. multivariate statistics, co-variance, structural equation modelling, factor analysis, meta-analysis and advanced regression techniques) and their applications. The module introduces principles of questionnaire design, evaluation and data analysis, along with advanced qualitative research methods. The laboratory workshops combine formal teaching with hands-on activities. The material provides an important foundation for the development and execution of the masters level research dissertation.

This module focuses on the problems and disorders that have their onset in infancy, childhood, adolescence and adulthood. It provides an in-depth analysis of the factors relevant to diagnosis, assessment, aetiology, risk and protective factors, maintenance and treatment of psychological disorders. Key psychological disorders reviewed include regulatory behaviour problems, prematurity, autism and language difficulties, externalising (e.g. Bullying and Conduct Disorder) and internalising problems (e.g. anxiety, PTSD and mood disorders), eating disorders, neurological disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and substance misuse disorders. Particular emphasis is also placed on discussing and evaluating the empirical evidence for different therapeutic approaches in the treatment of these disorders.

This module examines how an understanding of health and the treatment of illness can be advanced through knowledge and techniques derived from the behavioural sciences. It will then allow you the opportunity to acquire related practical experience via a supervised work activity. In the first semester, the module will explore different approaches to the prevention and treatment of illness using behavioural methods, and it will identify various psychological factors that contribute to successful rehabilitation programmes. Examples of topics covered in the first part include cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome, smoking and alcohol use, obesity, chronic pain, HIV/AIDS, and women's reproductive health.

This module will help you develop an awareness of the professional issues relevant to clinical and counselling psychology and psychotherapy in the UK. You will learn about the structure of these professions within the National Health Service, and the roles, ways of working and issues and challenges that face clinical practitioners. Themes such as ethics, diversity, and research in clinical settings will be discussed. The module will also provide an introduction to counselling and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) theory and skills. This will be done by reviewing the concept of counselling and the various counselling paradigms. The core conditions in the therapeutic process are examined and your acquisition of generic counselling skills (e.g. listening, attention giving, the effective use of questions, reflection, empathy) is facilitated during interactive workshops. The module then progresses to the CBT component in which fundamentals of this approach are presented. The development of knowledge of CBT skills such as identifying and modifying negative thoughts, promoting behavioural change, guided discovery, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness, are facilitated through the interactive lectures.