GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION

This is a basic course on schizophrenia. A detailed description of the disease, its etiology, course and symptoms are provided. The risks and benefits of different treatment options are reviewed and alternative views of Schizophrenia are also proffered. A critique of this diagnosis and treatments currently in use is presented.

This course consists of a series of short articles about the diagnosis of and treatment for schizophrenia. The first set of articles reviews the history, diagnosis and etiology of schizophrenia. The second set summarizes the pharmaceutical interventions that are available, including some of the adverse side effects of antipsychotic medications. The third set presents non-pharmaceutical treatment options for schizophrenia. The fourth set of articles reviews dissenting and highly controversial critical opinions about the actual diagnosis and the treatment of schizophrenia. The final set includes a glossary of terms and a summary of updates and resources for clients and therapists.

 
Educational Objectives:

This course will teach psychotherapists to
• Define schizophrenia and describe symptoms generally associated with it.
• Outline the basic etiology of schizophrenia.
• Identify the classic and contemporary treatments for schizophrenia.
• Discuss alternative views and schizophrenia and critique current ideas and interventions.
• Compare and contrast pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions.

Course Syllabus:

• Defining the Disease
  • Basic definitions and descriptions
  • Diagnosis
  • Terminology associated with the disease
  • Etiology of the disease
• Pharmaceutical Treatment of the Disease
  • Medications
  • Adverse reactions
• Non-pharmaceutical interventions
  • Confrontive
  • Rehabilitative
  • Cognitive
  • Intermittent long-term
  • Village Approach
• Critical Analysis of Available Treatments
  • Risks and benefits associated with the diagnosis
  • Risks and benefits associated with medication
  • Szasz’s and Laing’s critiques of the diagnosis and treatment
  • Web sites and References
• Resources and Updates
  • Resources for clients & therapists
  • Updates

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