SOWK 7303 - Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis

3 hrs

Using a biopsychosocial lens, this course will examine various assessment and diagnostic tools. The DSM is used as an organizing framework for reviewing major mental disorders. Discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of this system, the role of social workers in psychiatric diagnosis, the relationship of diagnosis to social work assessment and issues of ethical practice are a critical part of the course. The course emphasizes the acquisition of diagnostic skills as they relate to comprehensive social work assessment of individuals through the lifespan. Knowledge of psychopharmacology and the roles social workers occupy within interdisciplinary practice will be covered. Students are expected to display competence in both DSM diagnosis and bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment.
Prerequisite(s): Student must have completed all Foundation level MSW courses or be enrolled in the Advanced MSW program.