Mental Health Professionals, in general, suffer a critical deficiency in pharmacology knowledge, which impedes their ability to evaluate their patient/clients’ needs and outcomes. An advanced degree in Clinical Psychopharmacology can equip clinicians to better meet the needs of people living with co-occurring disorders (e.g., SUD and other mental health disorders). For example, an understanding of biomedical models, disease pathology, and basic pharmacology can improve clinicians’ diagnostic skills and capacity to offer enhanced patient education related to psychotropic medication, ultimately improving patient outcomes. This presentation will highlight opportunities to pursue continuing education in this arena.

Learning Objectives:

1. List at least 3 Master of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP) degree requirements
2. Name 7 postdoctoral MSCP degree programs
3. Understand the intersectionality between American Psychological Association (APA) Designation criteria, Academic degree requirements, and State laws with prescriptive authority
4. Regarding the field of addictions, conclude with at least 3 benefits of the training and education in Clinical Psychopharmacology for Mental Health Professionals
5. Understand how the power to prescribe includes also the power to “unprescribe.”

Dr. Casey McDougall is the Training Director and Academic Advisor for the postdoctoral M.S. Program in Clinical Psychopharmacology. This Program is only one of six APA Designated programs in the nation.

Dr. Casey McDougall is a licensed clinical psychologist and prescribing medical psychologist in New Mexico. He earned his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of North Dakota and Postdoctoral Masters in Clinical Psychopharmacology from Alliant International University. He completed his Pre-Doctoral Internship through the UNM Health Sciences Center; followed by his Post-Doctoral training with the Pueblo of Acoma. He is now the fulltime Training Director for the RXPP Program and Full Professor within the CEP Dept. Moreover, he is a Consultant for the Rehabilitation Hospital for Southern New Mexico here in Las Cruces, NM. Previously he worked for Indian Health Service as the Behavioral Health Director at the Red Lake Hospital (Red Lake Nation; Red Lake, MN). He is a Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom III and Direct Descendant of the White Earth (Nation) Band of Chippewa where his father is enrolled. He enjoys spectator sports, outdoor activities, cooking, and off-roading.

This webinar is offered in collaboration between NMSU and the SAMHSA-funded Mountain Plains ATTC. 1.5 APA sponsored CE's will be available.