This course has a clinical focus and practical orientation; therefore, we will examine basic neuropsychopharmacology, neurotransmitter systems, drug metabolism (i.e, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion), and the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of psychotropic medications to only a limited degree. Our emphasis will be primarily on understanding the physiological actions, therapeutic effects, and potential toxicities associated with prescribed pharmacotherapies for major classes of mental disorders affecting youth, adults, and older adults.
Pathway Elective For
- Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse (Host)
- Social Work Practice with Older Adults and Families from a Lifespan Perspective
Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Compare the physiological actions of medications and differentiate among the types of currently available psychotropic medications.
- Identify potential medication treatment options for commonly occurring mental disorders or substance use disorder.
- Analyze potential treatment options/plans applying risk vs. benefits of different medications based on: therapeutic effects, side effects, adverse reactions, and medication management.
- Identify the rewards and challenges regarding interprofessional collaboration between social workers and prescribing physicians/providers.
- Analyze psychopharmacological challenges associated with different populations (children, adolescents, adults, older adults, pregnant women, etc.).
- Assess legal and other considerations in psychopharmacology for social workers.
Design
Lecture and discussion format
Intensive Focus on Privilege, Oppression, Diversity and Social Justice (PODS)
Students are invited and expected to actively contribute from their experiences, field placement practice and knowledge of readings, etc. to help support and develop a vision of social justice, learn to recognize and reduce mechanisms that support oppression and injustice, work toward social justice processes, apply intersectionality and intercultural frameworks and strengthen critical consciousness, self-knowledge and self-awareness to facilitate PODS learning.