Introduction to Mental Health (MHCP 201)

This course explores a "best practices" approach to mental health care through learning activities that encompass grounded theory, new developments in the field, problem solving and group interaction. Learn about the philosophy and values that direct care, disorders that constitute serious and persistent mental illness, person-centered practice, facilitative communication, behaviour management, the mental health system and evidence-based practice.

This course is an excellent introduction to the field of mental health care for those with no previous experience. It also benefits individuals working in the mental health field who wish to strengthen their knowledge and skill base and acquire a credential.

This course may be taken for personal or professional interest, or as the foundation of the Continuing Education Certificate in Community Mental Health program.

On successful completion of the course, participants will possess:

• comprehension of the B.C. health care delivery system in general and the mental health care delivery system in particular;
• understanding of the basics of mental health:
  • primary concepts,
  • prevailing values, principles and vision,
  • care components,
  • “best practices” in mental health reform;
• understanding of the disorders that constitute serious and persistent mental illness;
• clarity with regards to the notion of “person-centered” practice and current methods of intervention; and
• comprehension of the utility of evidence-based practice, mental health initiatives and preview of Psychosocial Rehabilitation principles.

$1185.00

Textbook not included in tuition fee. Contact the Douglas College Bookstore for prices and ordering information.

Topics covered include:

• Service delivery system (BC Health)
• Conceptual framework
• Service delivery systems: basics of mental health
• Service provider profile: basics of mental health
• DSM-V-TR
  • Mood disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Schizophrenia
  • Personality disorders and MR
  • Concurrent disorders
• Person-centered care & collaboration
• Communications
• Self-care
• Facilitating change
  • Changing roles
  • Cultural competency
  • Leadership
• Framework for support
• Evidence-based practice
• Mental health initiatives

Required: 

• Balzer Riley, J. Communications in Nursing, 10th Edition

Optional: 

• Corrigan, Rusch, et al. Principles and Practice of Psychiatric Rehabilitation, 3rd Edition

Available through the Douglas College Bookstore.

Online course in Blackboard.

Due to the nature of an online delivery, the student will be expected be proficient in computer skills including email, adding attachments, navigating the internet etc. Resources for getting started with Blackboard are available online to help get the student comfortable in the Blackboard environment.

• 2 assignments
• Mid-term exam
• Final exam

Registration is easy; simply contact the Program Assistant at cehsadmin@douglascollege.ca to request a program application form. Payment of the tuition fee must accompany registration.

Instructions on how to access your course materials will be emailed to you by the Program Assistant within five (5) business days prior to your chosen course start date.