Theories and Methods of Counseling

The course presents the philosophical and theoretical bases of the helping process.  Emphasis is placed on understanding the major counseling theories, basic helping skills, and applications to diverse populations. Techniques and methods from each counseling perspective will be demonstrated and practiced under faculty supervision.  A major focus is on the application of the theories and methods of individual, group, and family counseling in schools and mental health settings.  The course also includes professional, ethical, and legal issues related specifically to the counseling and guidance process.

UPON COMPLETION OF THE COURSE, THE STUDENT WILL BE COMPETENT IN:

• Understanding the influence of biographical backgrounds of major counseling theorists.
• Synthesizing the contributions of each major counseling theory.
• Comprehending therapy as postulated by each of the major theorists.
• Evaluating the nature of behavior and behavior change from each model presented.
• Contrasting the concepts of mental health and mental illness as described by each theorist.
• Understanding the views of human nature from each counseling perspective.
• Assessing the relationship between therapist and client in each counseling theory.
• Demonstrating techniques and methods from each counseling perspective.
• Examining the multicultural aspects of each counseling method.
• Comparing and contrasting various therapeutic approaches to a given case study.
• Analyzing how each theory presented might be used to direct or redirect personal growth.
• Examining the ethical and moral implications of each theory.
• Synthesizing research findings about the effectiveness of therapy approaches from each counseling theory.
• Applying the theories and methods of individual, group, and family counseling in school and mental health settings.
• Illustrating the influence of each theory on the field of counseling and guidance.