Serious Mental Illness: Introduction to Psychosis Etiology, Assessment, and Treatment

Course Summary

According to the 2020 Statewide Behavioral Health Needs Assessment conducted by the Colorado Department of Human Services, only 36% of adults with serious mental illness receive services and support, and 41% of youth with serious mental illness receive services and support.

Intersecting identities can present treatment barriers or complications as well, including individuals experiencing homelessness and individuals involved with the criminal justice system. According to feedback from behavioral health professionals, provider discomfort in discussing, providing information on, and treating psychosis may contribute to these low service utilization rates.

By taking this course, you will gain a better understanding of the complexities involved in assessing, diagnosing, and treating “serious mental illness,” the challenges individuals with serious mental illness face, common stigmas and biases, and how to best treat this population according to evidence-based treatment and best practices.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

1. Report an increase in confidence in working with individuals with serious mental illness.
2. Increase knowledge of serious mental illness symptoms, diagnoses, and how to talk to clients and families.
3. Examine how culture, background, and life experiences influence work with individuals with serious mental illness.
4. Describe intersecting identities that present challenges for individuals with serious mental illness.

Learning Audience

The learners for this training are behavioral health service providers, social workers, counselors, peer support specialists, and other professionals who support individuals with substance use and behavioral health conditions.

Course Duration

• 60 minutes

Continuing Education Credits

This course is eligible for Continued Education Units (CEU) upon completion, which are awarded as follows: 

• 1 CEU credit awarded per (1) hour of completed learning

The University of Colorado is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The University of Colorado maintains responsibility for this program and its content. 

Questions about CE credits? 

• Send email

• CE Program Complaint Form

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