Key facts
UNE unit code: PSYC528
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Yes
- Yes
- No
- 6
Unit information
Gain advanced training in case formulation, psychological assessment and intervention with adults experiencing severe and enduring mental health difficulties.
Studying this unit, you will build on your skills and knowledge developed in PSYC503, PSYC504 and PSYC505. Throughout the unit you will focus on assessment, formulation, diagnosis and treatment of a range of complex psychological problems typically presenting in adulthood, with opportunities to strengthen your skills and develop competency during an intensive school.
Learning how to formulate complicated presentations within a biopsychosocial framework, you will be equipped to appropriately consult and collaborate with other professionals to support clients with more complex clinical presentations.
Ensure you have the skills needed for appropriate selection and delivery of leading evidence-based assessment and treatment approaches for working with adult clients with advanced, complex clinical presentations.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | 3 Days | Mandatory Intensive School | All offerings | Mandatory 3 day online intensive school. |
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate understanding of psychological theories of the aetiology and course of specific complex disorders commonly presenting in adult populations;
- demonstrate ability to formulate psychological disorders within a biopsychosocial framework in order to inform diagnosis and intervention of complex and/or co-morbid presentations;
- demonstrate competence in culturally responsive methods for assessing complex, severe and enduring psychological disorders commonly presenting in adulthood, with reference to the relevant international taxonomies of classification;
- select, tailor and implement culturally responsive evidence-based interventions based on an initial complex case formulation, and apply learnings of cultural safety and cultural safe practice;
- effectively monitor treatment progress and outcomes and modify approach based on evolving case formulation; and
- demonstrate skills of working inter-professionally with other professionals involved in the client's care and collaborate with professionals as appropriate in the management of complex cases.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essay in 3 parts | Yes | 40% | All offerings | It is mandatory to pass this assessment task in order to pass this unit. No. Words: 2000-2500 |
| VOSCE and Reflection Assignment - Assurance Task | Yes | 60% | All offerings | VOSCE of 30 mins and Reflection Essay It is mandatory to pass this assessment task in order to pass this unit. No. Words: 3000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
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