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Science of Psychology and Mental Health

This 8-week course will define abnormal psychology, the assessment, diagnosis process and the diagnostic criteria of individual mental health disorders as listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM 5).
Melissa Snyder, M.Ed., LPCC
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(515)
Class
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What's included

8 live meetings
6 hrs 40 mins in-class hours
Homework
1 hour per week. None will be assigned. Outside sources and videos will be provided for further exploration if desired.
Assessment
Informal assessment will take place throughout the lesson by asking students questions through chat box polls. Final Exam available upon request.
Grading
Upon request, final grade report can be given based on class attendance, participation during in-class chat box polls and final exam.

Class Experience

US Grade 8 - 11
Beginner Level
*I offer full refunds until 7 days prior to the start of the class, then Outschool refund policy is adhered to *

Have you ever wondered if the sociopath you see in the movies qualifies for an actual mental health disorder? Or if there are people who actually experience seeing things like a talking dog?  We'll answer these questions, using the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM 5), and my experience as a licensed clinical counselor, in this fascinating and informative class.

This class is ideal for learners who have an interest in abnormal psychology and human behavior. Every class, I use an engaging lecture-style presentation, with google slides and polls to encourage learner participation. An outline/handout is also created for each class to help learners to follow along. No prior psychology experience is needed for this course.

While chat box participation is welcomed, research informs us that learners understand, retain and recall information better when they are relaxed.  With this in mind, I don't call on students to participate.  Opportunities are provided, but students can relax knowing they won't be called on or put on the spot.

Optional homework application assignment, and final exam available upon request.
Learning Goals
1] Students will learn definition of abnormal psychology, both today's and the historical view
2] Students will learn what the clinical assessment and diagnostic process for mental health disorders involves
3] Students will learn the diagnostic criteria of the disorders in eleven categories of mental health disorders as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-5)
learning goal

Syllabus

Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum
8 Lessons
over 8 Weeks
Lesson 1:
What is Abnormal Psychology and how it has evolved over time
 We'll look at what is abnormal versus "normal" behavior.  We'll also discuss a historical perspective on abnormal behavior and treatment. 
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Clinical Assessment and Diagnostic Process
 We'll outline the clinical assessment and diagnostic process used with mental health disorders. 
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Anxiety & Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders
 Including Separation Anxiety Disorder, Selective Mutism, Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Hoarding Disorder 
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Trauma-and Stressor Related Disorders & Dissociative Disorders
 Including Reactive Attachment Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder, Dissociative Identity Disorder, Dissociative Amnesia 
50 mins online live lesson

Other Details

Parental Guidance
This is a fact-based course. I don't intend to discuss personal sensitive topics. In the event a student would bring up a personal mental health related issue, I will recognize the feeling/comment (i.e. "That can be really difficult") and respond, "That's important information to share with a trusted adult in a private/one-on-one setting. For now, let's talk about...". This has been a successful strategy in previous fact-based courses to address any sensitive topics that may come up. I don't believe parental guidance is required. However, parents know best if their child will more comfortable with them by their side. The fact-based content of this course doesn't require a parent, but the nature/personality of the specific learner may.
Supply List
Note taking materials.

I will provide an outline that can be used to follow along and take notes for each lesson.  It will be uploaded shortly before each lesson through a link to a virtual classroom.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined July, 2020
4.9
515reviews
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree in Education from Kent State University
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, with M.Ed. in Community counseling and a B.A. in Sociology. My licenses permits me to diagnose clients using the DSM 5.  I have taught college level introductory Psychology and Sociology courses.

Reviews

Live Group Course
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$19

weekly or $150 for 8 classes
1x per week, 8 weeks
50 min

Completed by 64 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
4-12 learners per class

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