Course Description
Psychopharmacology Survey addresses general principles of psychopharmacology and includes an overview of neurochemistry with a rational framework for the use of psychoactive drugs. Also covered is the interface of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology and how to effectively interact/collaborate with psychiatrists and primary care physicians. This course discusses diversity issues as they relate to the field of psychopharmacology.
Textbooks
Preston, J.D., O’Neal, J. and Talaga, M. (2010) Handbook of Clinical Psychopharmacology for Therapists, Fifth edition. Oakland: New Harbinger. (Link to full text found within the course)
Preston, J.D. and Johnson, J. (2024, 10th Edition) Clinical Psychopharmacology Made Ridiculously Simple. Miami: MedMaster. (Available for purchase through Amazon. Link to book is in the course)
Greenberg, R.P. (1999) “Common psychosocial factors in psychiatric drug therapy.” In M.A. Hubble, B.L. Duncan, and S.D. Miller, (Eds.) The Heart and Soul of Change: What Works in Therapy. Washington, D.C., American Psychological Association, p. 297-328 (Link to full text found within the course)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is it for?
- Psychopharmacology Survey is designed to help psychologists, family therapists, clinical social workers, substance abuse counselors and other mental health professionals develop a working knowledge of pharmacological agents and drug treatment strategies.
- Psychopharmacology Survey is a graduate-level academic course which is well-suited and may qualify as an elective class in graduate psychology programs.
- Psychopharmacology Survey may also assist psychologists in making an informed decision, as prescribing rules are changing in many States, about proceeding further with Psychopharmacology Certification.
This course satisfies the Psychopharmacology requirement for LPCC and MFT licensure in California. This course is approved by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.
