Course Description

Nurture or Nature? What causes mental illnesses such as depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use disorder, and neurodegenerative disorders? Explore this question and dive into psychopathology with a practicing mental health therapist and a Ph.D. biologist.

In the first week, we will explore the cellular, chemical, hormonal, anatomical and physiological components the of brain that regulate cognition, emotions, and behaviors. The second week, students will examine counseling interventions designed to conceptualize and treat these disorders through specific case studies drawn from real-life clients. We will also address current and historic ways health professions treat specific mental illnesses. This multidimensional perspective on psychopathology is perfect for those students interested in both biology and psychology!

By the end of this course students will be able to:
• Discuss the biological foundations psychological disorders
• Name and explain the symptoms associated multiple mental health illnesses
• Analyze real-world case studies and discuss treatment options that would like be utilized
• Know more about schooling and career options in psychotherapy and/or neurobiology
• Be able to accurately, respectfully, and more articulately discuss mental health disorders and their treatments

Prerequisites: No prerequisite courses are required. An interest biology and psychology is highly recommended.

Course Information

• Course Code: CEBN0939

Program Information

Summer@Brown

Brown’s Pre-College Program in the liberal arts and sciences for students completing grades 9-12 by June 2021.