This specialization provides an introduction to the study of abnormal psychology, with a survey of various mental health concerns through both a modern and historical lens. It concludes with an opportunity to practice effecting behavioral change in your own life through an overview of scientifically-supported treatment strategies. The specialization is not intended to be a replacement for therapy, nor a replacement for formal psychiatric training, but - through a series of lectures, readings, and reflective projects - you will learn many of the basic tenets of how diagnosis and treatment have been applied throughout the existence of the discipline of psychology, how to empathically respond to people in distress, and some basic tools to make desired changes in your own life.

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What you'll learn
An intro level understanding of basic tenets of psychopathology, including how to identify indications of distress
Empathic approaches to engaging with individuals in distress and evidence-based strategies for supporting yourself and others
An awareness of historical precedent in the discipline of mental health and how that history affects modern-day perceptions of psychopathology
Overview
Skills you'll gain
- Psychotherapy
- Goal Setting
- Mental and Behavioral Health
- Cultural Diversity
- Mental Health Therapies
- Learning Theory
- Interpersonal Communications
- Mental Health Diseases and Disorders
- Behavioral Health
- Motivational Interviewing
- Psychological Evaluations
- Mental Health
- Psychology
- Health Disparities
- Behavior Management
- Stress Management
- Psychosocial Assessments
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Experimentation
What’s included

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- Learn in-demand skills from university and industry experts
- Master a subject or tool with hands-on projects
- Develop a deep understanding of key concepts
- Earn a career certificate from Wesleyan University

Specialization - 3 course series
What you'll learn
An intro level understanding of symptomatology, intervention strategies, and relevant contextual factors of broad experiences of psychopathology.
A fundamental understanding of the indications a family member, friend, or colleague may be experiencing distress
The comfort level required for initiating an empathic, compassionate conversation with a person of concern.
Skills you'll gain
What you'll learn
Gain familiarity with the evolution of the modern sciences and professions of abnormal psychology
Become aware of the cultural and socio-economic factors that have influenced our understanding and treatment of mental illness
Learn strategies for undertaking close reflection on diagnostic classifications and treatment of mental illness, both past and present
Skills you'll gain
What you'll learn
Fundamental principles of behavior change
How those principles are applied in evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions
Skills you'll gain
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Frequently asked questions
The Specialization consists of three courses, each designed to take approximately 4-5 weeks, though you are welcome to proceed through each at your own pace.
No background knowledge is necessary to participate in this Specialization.
This course is completely online, so there’s no need to show up to a classroom in person. You can access your lectures, readings and assignments anytime and anywhere via the web or your mobile device.
More questions
Financial aid available,