Unlock document.
This document is partially blurred.
Unlock all pages and 1 million more documents.
Get Access
Chapter One
Summary
In Chapter One we discussed the reasons for why a non-medical therapist would want to study
psychopharmacology. The rationale has always been that they are not physicians and do not feel the need to practice
what they believe is medicine without a license, however, a case was made for the need for therapists to be well
versed on the types and uses of psychotropic medications because many of their patients come to the office placed
on these medications by their primary care physician.
Specific Discussion Suggestions:
1. Historically speaking, why have most non-medical psychotherapists decided not to study or discuss
psychotropic medications with patients or others involved in the case?
2. In your opinion, does having knowledge of, or a discussion concerning medication, lessen your
psychotherapeutic relationship with the client? If so, please explain.
3. Do you feel more comfortable talking with a psychiatrist or a family physician about your patient’s
medications? How might you remedy this concern?
4. Historically speaking, there have always been “turf wars” between the various non-medical therapists. Some
social workers resent insurance inclusion gains made by Licensed Professional Counselors in many
geographical areas. Many psychologists take great issue when social workers and other M.A. level therapists
attempt to conduct “psychological evaluations” with clients, and psychiatrists are very concerned about the
prescribing privileges of psychologists in various parts of the country. How would you propose a working
model to get all disciplines to work together for better patient care?
Other Student Assignments for Chapter One:
1. Divide the class in two and ask the students take a side, for or against, therapists advocating for psychotropic
medications with clients.
2. Ask your students to write a personal reaction paper to studying psychopharmacology. Are they interested?
Are they scared? Do they feel it’s too biological for them to learn?
