This course is designed to provide the student with an understanding of the major theories of counseling. Dimensions of the course include a comparative survey of various theories and the use of these theories in the counseling situation, skill assessment, and practical applications of the various counseling techniques and modalities. The student examines the philosophic bases of counseling and the helping relationship and consultation theory, practice, and application. Development of counselor and client self-awareness is emphasized. The student examines the nature and needs of individuals at all developmental levels.
Emphasis is placed on psychological, sociological, and physiological approaches.
The student examines the impact on counseling of social change, ethnic groups, subcultures, changing roles of women, sexism, urban and rural societies, population patterns, cultural mores, use of leisure time, and differing life patterns. The course focuses on the major psychological disorders as detailed in the current Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Disorders. The behavioral manifestations and dynamics of mental disorders will be explored, focusing on therapeutic assessment issues. The classroom is used as a laboratory to demonstrate and examine various aspects of the counseling field. Selected reading and classroom participation introduce the student to trends in counseling.