Course Code : CPS 510

Course Description :

Focuses on the application of a systematic and empirical approach to the study of counseling Topics will include: scientific method, pseudoscience, types of experimental research, variable definition, validity threats, control strategies, experimental design, ethical issues, how to present research, statistical application, and additional material. Students engage in discussion, conduct relevant empirical research, and write research reports in the American Psychological Association format (APA).

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 520

Course Description :

An in-depth introduction to the history, roles, functions, and relationships of mental health counselors. Course content is set in the context of the ACA and AMHCA Codes of Ethics and counselors’ work is understood as well in the unique needs associated with culture, spirituality, gender, and other defining client characteristics. Emphasis is likewise given to the importance of counselor self-care. The course introduces the requirements of CACREP Core Standards and the Program Standards for Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 535

Course Description :

An advanced overview of the physiological processes relating to human behavior. Topics include the central nervous system, neurotransmitter and neurohormonal functioning, the biological bases for emotions, perception, motivation and brain disorders.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 545

Course Description :

Examines the various legal constraints and ethical principles related to the roles, responsibilities and credentialing of counselors in private practice, agencies, schools, etc. In addition to emphasis on the ACA Code of Ethics, students learn to use the codes of ethics of their program specializations (AMHCA, ASCA, AATA) in order to become competent ethical decision-makers.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 557

Course Description :

Examines theoretical and practice dimensions of major therapeutic approaches. The course explores the early history of counseling and psychotherapy, its foundations and impact on current practice. Building upon the early traditions and models, content will concentrate on the more modern person-centered, reality therapy, cognitive and behavioral approaches to counseling. Use of research, application to cases and role-playing will illustrate the approaches under consideration.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 562

Course Description :

This course features an overview of individual and group approaches to formal and informal modes of assessment employed by professional counselors. Course participants will evaluate instruments, practice interpreting results, and demonstrate knowledge of psychometric properties.

Credit : 3

Prerequisites :

CPS 545

Course Code : CPS 577

Course Description :

This course is a study of abnormal psychological processes across the lifespan including behavior, etiology, symptomology, diagnosis, assessment, and treatment planning. Students are prepared to use the DSM-5 and other appraisal measures and tools for understanding client needs in varying settings.

Credit : 3

Prerequisites :

CPS 557, CPS 613, CPS 667

Course Code : CPS 613

Course Description :

An examination of and practice in the process and techniques of individual counseling with adolescents and adults. Students learn and exercise a variety of intervention strategies, tailored to the counselor's role in particular settings as well as clients developmental level and needs. The full range of treatment from Intake to Termination provides the basis for learning about counseling at every stage.

Credit : 3

Prerequisites :

CPS 520, CPS 545 OR CPS 500, CPS 545

Course Code : CPS 633

Course Description :

Undertakes the study of career development theories, career decision-making, career assessment, and occupational and labor market information, as well as basic strategies and instruments utilized by counselors in assisting individuals toward making appropriate career choices. Activities designed to assist clients at all developmental levels and in various settings provide students with practice in helping others in their career development and choices.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 647

Course Description :

Explores the role and impact of values, spirituality and religious beliefs in counseling. The relevance and power of client beliefs as they may relate to presenting concerns and the possible role of utilizing the client's spirituality in the counseling process are explored. Counselor values and spiritual development are examined and recognized as a factor in counselor effectiveness.

Credit : 3

Prerequisites :

CPS 557

Course Code : CPS 663

Course Description :

Examines various theories of small-group dynamics and membership, and the various roles counselors play in diverse group models, according to the makeup of the group, it's setting, and its goals/purposes. Topics include group structure, development of norms, conflict resolution, roles, therapeutic factors and dimensions of group leadership. A significant aspect of this course is found in students ongoing participation in a group experience. Additional experiential exercises in which students learn group leadership skills are conducted throughout the course.

Credit : 3

Prerequisites :

CPS 557, CPS 613

Course Code : CPS 667

Course Description :

Using theory and research regarding human development from infancy through old age, the course examines the impact of life events, developmental factors, and abilities, and their implications for individuals, families, and for counselors and art therapists. While this broader scope provides the context for the course as a whole, a selective focus on childhood and adolescence is emphasized for students preparing to be school counselors. Research projects reflect and enhance students’ chosen emphases and professional goals.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 673

Course Description :

This course provides an overview of brief counseling modalities and explores a variety of brief counseling techniques and interventions. The primary focus is on how to effectively use a brief model to help clients find solutions and discover their goals and strengths. Application to case conceptualization and creating a treatment plan within a brief model are explored and practiced.

Credit : 3

Prerequisites :

CPS 520, CPS 557 or CPS 500, CPS 557

Course Code : CPS 690B

Course Description :

Once the three-credit practicum experience has been completed, students will pursue a six-credit internship including six hundred clock hours in one or more supervised settings that reflect their professional goals (mental health or school setting). When split across three semesters, each two-credit course requires 300 hours of fieldwork. The setting shall provide an advanced level of supervised counseling experience. Students will gain practice in performing the work of counselors, providing direct service. The internship courses presume increased responsibility and ongoing practical experience in the counseling profession in agencies, hospitals, or schools and success in the internship is a requirement for graduation. Weekly class meetings provide group supervision by faculty and a shared learning process. Each student obtains professional liability insurance from the university and secures an additional policy usually through their professional associations (ACA, ASCA, AATA). Students are responsible for complying with site requirements for health screenings and/or background checks. Advisor approval required.

Credit : 2

Prerequisites :

CPS690A

Course Code : CPS 690C

Course Description :

Once the three-credit practicum experience has been completed, students will pursue a six-credit internship including six hundred clock hours in one or more supervised settings that reflect their professional goals (mental health or school setting). When split across three semesters, each two-credit course requires 300 hours of fieldwork. The setting shall provide an advanced level of supervised counseling experience. Students will gain practice in performing the work of counselors, providing direct service. The internship courses presume increased responsibility and ongoing practical experience in the counseling profession in agencies, hospitals, or schools and success in the internship is a requirement for graduation. Weekly class meetings provide group supervision by faculty and a shared learning process. Each student obtains professional liability insurance from the university and secures an additional policy usually through their professional associations (ACA, ASCA, AATA). Students are responsible for complying with site requirements for health screenings and/or background checks. Advisor approval required.

Credit : 2

Prerequisites :

CPS690B

Course Code : CPS 525

Course Description :

Focuses on an in-depth study of the historical development of personality theories, including psychodynamic, phenomenological and cognitive perspectives. Students will examine primary works and other relevant literature which contributes to an understanding of various perspectives on personality development.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 621

Course Description :

An examination of and practice in counseling roles, responsibilities, and responses to crisis, behavioral emergencies, disaster, or other trauma-causing events. The course reviews current theories and knowledge with regard to suicide, violence, disasters, substance use, legal and ethical issues of crisis counseling, and other current crisis counseling topics. Application of theory and knowledge to the practice of crisis intervention, psychological first aid, and suicide prevention and management are explored and practiced.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 623

Course Description :

Examines theoretical models and current best practice in marriage and family counseling Students are introduced to the specific techniques and skills associated with major approaches, including cognitive behavioral, systems theory, and solution-focused interventions. Observation of expert therapists and in-class practice facilitate understanding of these modalities.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 627

Course Description :

Provides an overview of psychopharmacological interventions, including discussions of drug action and interaction, tolerance, side effects, dependency and withdrawal. Emphasis is placed upon medications commonly prescribed for the treatment of various forms of mental illness. The course will also include an examination of the counselor’s role in educating clients about pharmacological issues

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 637

Course Description :

Studies the phenomenon of addiction (including its psychology, biology, pharmacology) and the treatment of substance abuse. Students will become familiar with a variety of substances of abuse and their effect on the lives of users as well as the impact on others. Currently accepted interventions are studied and practiced.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 643

Course Description :

Studies the particular assessment and therapeutic skills used when working with children and youth in response to a variety of presenting concerns. Among the topics addressed will be the importance of building rapport and the use of play therapy, art and projective techniques specifically designed for children and teens. Consideration of the role of family is an integral part of learning to work with young people.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 657

Course Description :

Reviews major theoretical perspectives on death and dying at various life stages and levels of understanding. The course provides an introduction to the research literature on the bereavement process and on resilience. Students will examine as well the impact of various experiences of loss on the individual and their effect on other persons significant to them. Student research, case studies and in-class practice will facilitate skill development.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 670

Course Description :

This course will address Counseling Services Supervisors many roles, carried out in an age of accountability. In addition to the traditional responsibilities of administration, education, and expressive supportive functions, students will explore multiple elements integral to a supervisor's job functions, including the identification of service needs, advocacy, the importance of building and maintaining various professional relationships, as well as the ethical, legal, and political dimensions. Critical to success as a supervisor is a commitment to self-management.

Credit : 3

Prerequisites :

CPS 688B

Course Code : CPS 677

Course Description :

An overview of the range of human sexual behavior, with emphasis upon issues of sexuality as they arise in the context of counseling. Students will explore their own comfort level regarding sexual matters and recognize the importance of developing attitudes and skills that will facilitate their work with individuals and couples in the counseling relationship.

Credit : 3

Course Code : CPS 699

Course Description :

Addresses current theoretical and practical issues in counseling which cannot be addressed in depth by other courses. The course provides an opportunity for a comprehensive understanding of particular counseling concerns (e.g., eating disorders, sexual assault, suicide, crisis management, etc.) and for consideration of the research associated with these topics, as well as preferred interventions. The focus of course may in part be determined by current counseling practices, faculty interest and choice and/or student requests.

Credit : 3