Medical Family Therapy and Introduction

This course is designed to prepare family therapists to work collaboratively in addressing the unique psychosocial problems of individuals, couples and families with acute and chronic medically related concerns, such as childhood diabetes and cancer, breast and prostate cancer, chronic progressive illness like M.S. and chronic pain. This course also presents a history and the most current trends in biological treatments in psychiatric disorders and systemic considerations for families. Competencies in interpersonal and communication skills, patient-centered and family-focused care, and collaborative practice will be addressed in this course. This course will present an overview of neurobiology and the mechanisms of action, side effects, and relevant issues associated with the major psychotropic medications and will explore the role of gender, race, culture, age, comorbid psychological and medical disorders, and other variables that impact the use of, and response to, various psychopharmacological interventions. Topics covered will include: understanding physician training, focus and language, evidenced based practice, outcome based practice, levels of collaboration and an introduction to motivational interviewing framework and concepts.