Counsellors Role in Psychopharmacology: Psychopharmacology is the study of mechanisms underlying the effects of drugs on behaviour. This course will introduce students to the principles of pharmacology: drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and the role of pharmacology in treating psychological disorders. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics will be covered, including interactions, side effects and adverse interactions. Prescription drugs prescribed for psychological treatment will be identified and basic drug classifications will be reviewed. The nature and causes of drug abuse addiction and accepted treatment methodologies will be explored. The role and relationships between counsellor, client, and prescribing professional will be explained.
