Introduces psychiatric-mental health assessment of individuals and families throughout the life span, using established therapeutic communication techniques, individual psychotherapeutic modalities, and psychotherapy skills from evidence-based practices. Covers synthesis of theories and knowledge from nursing, biology, psychiatry, psychology, and socio-cultural studies as they apply to the comprehensive assessment of psychiatric clients. Focus on assessment and psychotherapy skills commensurate with the role of the PMHNP through didactic, experiential and observational practice in the classroom. Three and one half lecture hours and one laboratory hour a week for one semester. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Prerequisite: Graduate standing; Nursing 395C, 396C, 396J, and 196K, or consent of instructor.