Psychopathology Assessment: Anxiety-Based and Personality Disorders

30 hours with additional hours of clinical supervision.

This comprehensive 30-hour course, supplemented by clinical supervision, offers an in-depth exploration of anxiety-based and personality disorders. Participants will delve into the foundational principles and various theories of anxiety to better understand symptoms such as panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, general anxiety, and phobias.

• Anxiety Disorders:
  • Theoretical Perspectives and Symptomology: Detailed exploration of anxiety symptoms and their origins, focusing on early developmental conflicts.
  • Trauma and PTSD: Examination of trauma’s impact on anxiety formation and PTSD symptoms.
• Personality Disorders:
  • Cluster A, B, and C Disorders: In-depth study of personality disorders, categorized into clusters A, B, and C.
  • Self-Organization, Attachment, and Emotional Regulation: Understanding the aspects of self-organization, attachment styles, and emotional regulation associated with each personality type.
  • Defense Mechanisms: Exploration of defense mechanisms and their role in personality disorders.
  • Treatment Considerations: Review of tailored treatment considerations for each personality disorder and how anxiety manifests within these contexts.

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, participants will:

• Self-Evaluation and Development: Understand and apply processes for self-evaluation, recognizing how attitudes, biases, power, and privilege influence perceptions.
• Intake and Assessment Skills: Apply and evaluate semi-structured intake and assessment processes.
• DSM-5 and Differential Diagnosis: Understand and assess DSM-5 processes for differential diagnosis and diagnostic assessment.
• Case Conceptualization: Learn the role of case conceptualization in diagnostic and treatment planning.
• Evidence-Based Interventions: Understand, apply, and evaluate evidence-based intervention plans.

Assessment Methods

• Research Review Discussions: Engaging in discussions based on current research.
• Supervised Case Reviews: Practical application through supervised case evaluations.
• Academic Paper: Completion of an academic paper demonstrating understanding and competencies in the areas covered.

Participants will engage in detailed discussions on the interplay between anxiety and personality disorders, gaining valuable insights into treatment strategies and therapeutic interventions. By the end of the course, learners will have a profound understanding of the complexities of anxiety-based and personality disorders, equipped with practical skills to assess and treat these conditions effectively.

Clinical Supervisor

Karen Redhill-Feinstein M.A. C.Psych. Assoc.
Registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario
Practice in Clinical and Rehabilitation Psychology
Reg. # 5265