Module Code - Title:
PS6741
-
INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC SKILLS AND CLINICAL INTERVIEWING
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
This module provides students with a broad introduction to research, theories, and skills, and core professional practice standards concerned with psychotherapeutic skills and clinical interviewing. The module will develop generic psychotherapeutic skills including but not limited to communication, active listening, attending, empathy, probing, and non-verbal communication.
Syllabus:
In this module students will learn about the theoretical foundations and research underpinning psychotherapeutic skills and clinical interviewing. Students will also engage in workshops to facilitate the application and deep learning of concepts covered in the theoretical block. The module will focus on generic psychotherapeutic skills including but not limited to communication, active listening, attending, empathy, probing, and non-verbal communication. Focus will also be on developing interview skills and an introduction to clinical interviewing. These skills will be explored both theoretically and experientially. Assessments are designs to support the achievement of learning outcomes.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Describe the use and identify basic psychotherapeutic skills
2. Implement basic psychotherapeutic skills
3. Critically evaluate the development of their communication skills
4. Advance their understanding and skills in clinical interviewing
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Value the contribution of different therapeutic skills to the field of clinical psychology
2. Reflect on professional issues and core practice standards in relation to psychotherapeutic interventions and assessment (e.g., informed consent, safeguarding, record keeping, and open disclosure)
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
This module is delivered in two dimensions: lectures and workshops. The first six weeks consist of weekly lectures designed to introduce students to theoretical underpinnings, evidence-based research, and core psychotherapeutic skills. These lectures aim to develop students' articulate communication skills and foster curiosity as they engage critically with key concepts. The second six weeks involve workshops, providing students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge and skills in practical settings, thus promoting agility as they adapt to real-world scenarios and work collaboratively through interactive group activities. Learning is further supported through guided and independent reading, which encourages students to take responsibility for their academic growth. The module's summative assessments will help students build resilience, supporting them in achieving the learning outcomes.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Carr & McNulty (2016)
The Handbook of Adult Clinical Psychology
An Evidence Based Practice Approach
, Routledge Taylor & Francis Group
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
MSCCPSTFA - CLINICAL AND COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Autumn
Module Leader:
aoife.whiston@ul.ie