JAIN DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY (SCHOOL OF SCIENCES)

MSC. PSYCHOLOGY B AND MSPSYCGEN

EXPERENTIAL LEARNING REPORT(BIOLOGICAL PROCESS)

CADABAMS

SUBMITTED TO : SUBMITTED BY:

MS. SONIA DAVID DHARSINI S
25MSPSR008

DATE :14/11/2025
 EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING REPORT - CADABAMS VISIT(07/11/2025)

ANUNITHA – (DEADDICTION CENTRE)

INTRODUCTION:
Purpose of the Visit/Experience
The purpose of the visit to Cadabam’s De-Addiction and Psychological Centre was to gain
firsthand understanding of the processes involved in addiction recovery, psychological
interventions, and rehabilitation. The visit aimed to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-
world clinical applications.
Objectives of the Activity
 To observe the multidisciplinary approach used in treating individuals with substance
and behavioral addictions.
 To understand the structure, environment, and methods of therapy used in the
rehabilitation process.
 To learn about patient routines, counseling techniques, and recovery management.
 To explore the role of psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors in addiction
treatment.
Brief Description of the Institution/Organization Visited
Cadabam’s Group is a leading network of mental health and rehabilitation centers in India,
based in Bengaluru. The De-Addiction Centre (Cadabam’s Anunitha) specifically focuses on
the recovery of individuals suffering from substance use and behavioral addictions. The
center provides a holistic approach through medical, psychological, and social rehabilitation
methods, supported by a team of psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, counselors, and medical
professionals.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EXPERIENCE

Setting/Context
The visit was conducted on 07/11/2025 at Cadabam’s De-Addiction Centre, Bengaluru,
accompanied by faculty and classmates. The environment was calm, structured, and
therapeutic—designed to promote healing and recovery.
Activities Undertaken
 Observation of the three-level screening process for new patients, which includes
clinical, psychological, and physical assessments.
  Interaction with the treatment team comprising psychiatrists, counselors, and clinical
psychologists.
 Attending and observing therapy sessions such as AA (Alcoholics Anonymous)
meetings, motivational sessions, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT
(Dialectical Behavior Therapy), and recreational activities like music and Zumba.
 Learning about withdrawal management, where patients are first stabilized in a
hospital before being moved to the rehabilitation center.
 Discussion on medicine management, especially for craving control and symptom
relief.
Description of the Learners/Clients/Community Engaged With
Clients included individuals with substance addictions (alcohol, cannabis, etc.) and
behavioral addictions (gambling). Some also presented dual diagnoses, where addiction
coexisted with psychiatric conditions. Most clients were in the recovering stage, participating
in therapy and daily activities.

OBSERVATIONS AND LEARNING

Key insights
treatment team
 Counsellors (everyday visit to the patients)
 Clinical psychologists (weekly twice meeting with the patients)
 Psychiatrists (15 days once)
 Medical staff (works everyday handles the medicines)
Each professional contributes to different aspects of recovery, including therapy, medication,
and behavior management.
treatment process
The treatment begins with withdrawal management, where patients are first admitted to a
hospital in jp nagar and then moved to the rehabilitation center for further care.
A three-level screening process is followed, involving clinical, psychiatric, and physical
assessments, including a detailed history of the individual’s mental and childhood
background.
Linkages to Theoretical Concepts
The visit reflected principles from Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
(CBT), emphasizing the modification of maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. Bandura’s
Social Learning Theory was evident in group therapy, where patients learned through
observation, modeling, and shared experiences.
PERSONAL REFLECTION
Impact on Understanding
This experience deepened my understanding of addiction as a biopsychosocial issue that
requires integrated treatment. It helped bridge classroom concepts with practical observation.
Challenges Faced
Initially, it was challenging to emotionally process the struggles faced by clients and maintain
professional boundaries. With guidance, I learned to observe empathetically yet objectively.
Emotional/Psychological Reflections
Witnessing real recovery journeys increased my self-awareness and compassion. It also
highlighted personal biases about addiction recovery and the importance of patience and
resilience in clinical practice.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Evaluation of Relevance
The visit was highly relevant to academic learning in clinical psychology, counselling
psychology, biological process providing real exposure to therapeutic interventions and
multidisciplinary teamwork.
Connection to Broader Issues
The experience connects to social and psychological concerns like stigma, relapse, and lack
of awareness about mental health in India. It also relates to developmental psychology, as
early life experiences were often found to contribute to addiction patterns.
Areas for Improvement
 The centre could enhance community outreach programs to educate families about
addiction.
 For self-improvement, I aim to develop better counseling communication skills and
emotional regulation when dealing with sensitive cases.
 Future visits could include short interactive sessions with recovering clients for
deeper understanding.

CONCLUSION
The visit to Cadabam’s De-Addiction Centre highlighted the importance of a method of
treatment combining medical, psychological and behavioral approaches. Recovery is viewed
as a continuous journey rather than a one-time cure, emphasizing patience, discipline, and
consistent support from professionals and family members. It was an enriching educational
experience that combined observation, empathy, and theoretical application. It provided
insight into the importance of holistic rehabilitation and continuous care. The experience
strengthened my motivation to pursue a career in clinical or counselling psychology and
deepened my respect for the resilience of individuals recovering from addiction.

AMITHA (PSYCHIATRIC REHABILITATION AND MENTAL HEALTH RECOVERY )

INTRODUCTION:
Purpose of the Visit/Experience
The purpose of visiting Cadabam’s Amitha – Psychiatric Rehabilitation Centre was to
understand the process of psychiatric recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration of individuals
with chronic mental health conditions. The visit aimed to provide firsthand exposure to real-
world therapeutic environments and multidisciplinary mental health practices that
complement theoretical learning.
Objectives of the Activity
 To observe the rehabilitation methods used for individuals with long-term psychiatric
disorders.
 To understand the structure and functioning of a psychiatric rehabilitation centre.
 To study the roles of various mental health professionals, including psychiatrists,
clinical psychologists, counselors, and social workers.
 To gain insight into the psychosocial interventions and therapies provided to patients
for recovery
Brief Description of the Institution/Organization Visited

It provides long-term care, therapy, and support for individuals diagnosed with chronic
mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression. The centre
focuses on psychosocial rehabilitation, aiming to help clients regain independence, social
functioning, and improved quality of life.

The treatment model at Amitha integrates medication management, psychotherapy,

behavioral interventions, and vocational training. The facility operates under a
multidisciplinary team comprising psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, psychiatric social
workers, counselors, and occupational therapists.

DESCRPTION OF THE EXPERIENCE

Setting / context

The visit was conducted on 07/11/2025 at Cadabam’s psychiatric rehabilitation and mental
health recovery , Bengaluru, accompanied by faculty and classmates. The environment was
calm, structured, and therapeutic—designed to promote healing and recovery.
Activities undertaken

 A counsellor guided us through the centre, briefed about their daily routine as they
wake up at 6 have breakfast attend their activities/session from 10-11 am, 11-12pm
and 2-3pm.
 We had one hour to interact with the patients , me personally interacted with 4 people
as 2 of them were elderly people we just talked to them but they were bit hesitant and
one 19yr old boy who is here for depression and one girl who has anger issues.
 We had a session with the director for half an hour who gave insights about what
things we can do to improve ourself, motivating us to reach higher positions and we
had an interactive sessions were questions were asked etc..,

Description of the Learners/Clients/Community Engaged With

The clients at Cadabam’s Amitha are individuals experiencing chronic psychiatric disorders
such as schizophrenia, bipolar affective disorder, severe depression, and schizoaffective
disorder. Most of them have undergone acute treatment in hospitals and are in the
rehabilitation phase, focusing on regaining social, emotional, and functional stability.

The residents vary in age, gender, and background, though many are adults between 20 and
60 years old who require ongoing support and supervision. Some individuals also present
dual diagnoses, where psychiatric illness coexists with conditions such as substance use or
mild intellectual challenges.

OBSERVATIONS AND LEARNINGS

Key insights

One major insight was that rehabilitation is a continuous and gradual process—it does not
end with symptom control but extends to helping individuals rebuild life skills, confidence,
and social relationships. The environment was calm, supportive, and designed to foster
independence.

The centre operates through a multidisciplinary team, including psychiatrists, clinical

psychologists, psychiatric social workers, counselors, nurses, and occupational therapists.
Each professional plays a key role in creating individualized treatment and rehabilitation
plans.

Another important learning was how structured routines—such as daily therapy sessions,
group discussions, and vocational activities—promote psychological stability and social
engagement. The concept of “functional recovery” rather than just “clinical recovery” was
strongly emphasized.

Reflections on Behavior, Communication Styles, and Environment

The staff at Amitha displayed empathetic, patient-centered communication, using active
listening, gentle tone, and reassurance while interacting with clients. Their approach reflected
respect and understanding, crucial for individuals with psychiatric conditions who often face
stigma and low self-esteem. Clients’ behaviors varied based on the nature and severity of
their conditions. Some were socially withdrawn, while others were interactive and
cooperative. The therapists encouraged participation through positive reinforcement and non-
verbal cues, fostering a sense of belonging and motivation. The physical environment was
therapeutic—clean, peaceful, and well-structured, with open spaces for recreation and
therapy rooms that ensured privacy and comfort. Such an environment clearly contributed to
mental stability and emotional safety.

Linkages to Theoretical Concepts

 Humanistic Approach (Carl Rogers): The unconditional positive regard and

empathetic communication used by counselors aligned with Rogers’ emphasis on self-
acceptance and growth.
 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Sessions aimed to modify negative thought
patterns and behaviors, illustrating the core principles of CBT.
 Psychoeducation and Social Learning Theory (Bandura): Clients learned coping skills
and healthy behaviors by observing others in group sessions and through guided
practice.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Impact on understanding

The experience helped me appreciate the importance of teamwork among mental health
professionals and the need for continuous, individualized care. Observing the structured
environment and therapeutic interactions made me understand how consistency and
compassion can transform the lives of individuals dealing with chronic mental illness.

Challenges faced and how they were managed

I found it emotionally difficult to maintain a professional stance while feeling empathy.

However, observing the calm, patient-centered approach of the staff helped me adapt and
understand the importance of maintaining emotional boundaries and professional objectivity.

Emotional/Psychological Reflections

The visit encouraged deep self-awareness and introspection. I became more conscious of my
own attitudes and subtle biases toward individuals with mental illness. Seeing clients live
with dignity and resilience reminded me of the power of empathy, patience, and acceptance
in the healing process.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Evaluation of the Visit in Terms of Academic Relevance

The visit to Cadabam’s Amitha was highly relevant to academic learning in the fields of
Clinical Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and Rehabilitation Studies. It provided an
opportunity to witness the real-life application of theoretical models such as the
biopsychosocial model, behavioral therapy, and humanistic approaches.

Connection to Broader Issues

The visit reflected several broader social, cultural, and psychological issues surrounding
mental health. Socially, it highlighted the stigma and misunderstanding that often isolate
individuals with psychiatric disorders. Culturally, the visit revealed how families in India
often struggle to accept mental illness due to societal taboos, emphasizing the need for family
education and psycho-social support.

Areas for improvement

Greater Family Involvement: Increasing family participation in psychoeducation and therapy

sessions could strengthen home-based support after rehabilitation.

For Self-Improvement: I recognized the need to develop stronger therapeutic communication

skills and a deeper understanding of case formulation in psychiatric settings.

For Future Visits: Incorporating interactive discussions or shadowing a therapist for a short
session could enhance experiential learning for students.

Conclusion

The visit to Cadabam’s Amitha – Psychiatric Rehabilitation Centre was a deeply insightful
and educational experience that enhanced both theoretical understanding and practical
awareness of psychiatric rehabilitation. The centre’s focus on holistic recovery, including
medication, psychotherapy, behavioral management, and social skills training, reflected the
true essence of mental health rehabilitation. Observing the coordinated efforts of
psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, and support staff emphasized the importance of
teamwork, empathy, and consistency in achieving recovery goals. Personally, it reinforced
my respect for those with psychiatric illnesses and helped me understand how valuable
compassion, patience, and ethical responsibility in mental health practice.
 REFERENCE

Bandura, A. (1977). Social Learning Theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall.

Beck, A. T. (1976). Cognitive Therapy and the Emotional Disorders. New York:
International Universities Press.

Rogers, C. R. (1951). Client-Centered Therapy: Its Current Practice, Implications, and

Theory. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.

Mueser, K. T., & Gingerich, S. (2013). The Complete Family Guide to Schizophrenia:
Helping Your Loved One Get the Most Out of Life. Guilford Press.

Anthony, W. A., Cohen, M., & Farkas, M. (1990). Psychiatric Rehabilitation. Boston
University, Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation.

Marlatt, G. A., & Donovan, D. M. (Eds.). (2005). Relapse Prevention: Maintenance

Strategies in the Treatment of Addictive Behaviors. Guilford Press.

Cadabam’s Group. (n.d.). De-Addiction and Mental Health Services. Retrieved from

Cadabam’s Group. (n.d.). Amitha – Psychiatric Rehabilitation Centre. Retrieved from

ANNEXURES