Foundations of Community Mental Health
CMC5001.01
Course Description
Summary
This course introduces students to the historical, philosophical, and systemic foundations of community mental health. Students examine the evolution of the community mental health movement, including the impact of deinstitutionalization on mental health policy, service delivery, and access to care. The course explores the structure and operation of community mental health centers, as well as the integration of clinical practice with community-based and recovery-oriented approaches.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze the historical and philosophical foundations of the community mental health movement, evaluating how deinstitutionalization and policy reforms have shaped contemporary mental health systems and access to care.
- Describe and critique the structure, funding, and operation of community mental health organizations, demonstrating understanding of how systemic, social, and political factors influence service delivery and client outcomes.
- Develop a conceptual framework for integrating clinical practice with community-based, recovery-oriented, and culturally responsive approaches to promote equity, collaboration, and client empowerment.