Clinical Psychology of Rehabilitation

Module PSICOLOGIA CLINICA

The course aims to explore the basic foundations of psychology, with particular reference to the theoretical underpinnings of clinical psychology, in its application to healthcare and rehabilitation. Several areas will be covered, starting from the foundations of clinical psychology in healthcare, specifically:

1. the evolution from the biomedical model to the biopsychosocial model

2. the definition of health and  illness

The main active listening and observation techniques used in clinical psychology will be introduced, such as:

1. the clinical interview;

2. the main screening and assessment tests.

The adaptive and psychopathological conditions of hospitalized patients, both acute and chronic, will be addressed. In this context, the focus will be on:

1. analysis of the stages of functional loss and disability, acceptance of trauma, and grief;

2. understanding the defense mechanisms and resilience of patients and caregivers;

3. therapeutic adherence and motivational factors.

Particular attention will be paid to the professional-patient relationship, specifically:

1. the therapeutic alliance in the rehabilitation process;

2. effective communication and management of "suffering";

3. transference, countertransference, and work-related stress management to help prevent burnout.

Finally, emphasis will be placed on the importance of teamwork, providing knowledge of key group dynamics and leadership styles in healthcare professions.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to have developed skills in the following areas:

1. Knowledge and Understanding: Students will deepen their understanding of the theoretical models of clinical psychology applied to rehabilitation, understanding the psychological dynamics of chronically ill patients and the impact of disability on the family system.

2. Applied Knowledge and Understanding: Students will be able to develop skills in managing the helping relationship and using screening tools for mental health issues in complex healthcare settings.

3. Making Judgments: The course aims to develop the ability to critically analyze patients' psychological needs to integrate rehabilitation interventions with a bio-psycho-social perspective, recognizing the limitations of each professional role.

4. Communication Skills: Students will develop the ability to refine empathic communication and clinical interview techniques, essential for conflict management and multidisciplinary teamwork.

5. Learning Skills: The goal is to acquire methodological tools for continuous updating on scientific evidence in the psychological-rehabilitative field.

The course program includes an in-depth exploration of the historical and cultural background that led to the emergence of clinical psychology as an applied psychological science.

The historiographical contingencies that shaped the creation and development of the discipline's main theories and methods will be illustrated.

A general overview of the main themes and basic concepts of clinical psychology in the healthcare field will also be provided.

Rossi, N. (2004). Psicologia clinica per le professioni sanitarie. Il Mulino

Ripamonti, C. A., Clerici, C. A. (2008). Psicologia e salute. Introduzione alla psicologia clinica in ambiente sanitario. Il Mulino

Questions will focus on the knowledge learned during the course and students will be asked to draw independent conclusions related to the topics covered.

The clarifying examples used during the explanations may also be requested to further explain the concepts, which must be mastered in accordance with the lecture content and the reference text. Lecture slides will also be provided, which should serve as the basis for the content and structure of the answers.