The counseling process is discussed in generic terms, regardless of the theoretical base being used. Emphasis is placed on developing skills to counsel clients with special needs. Legal and ethical issues are thoroughly discussed and analyzed. This course helps students gain knowledge and understanding of community counseling issues. The administration and function of community counseling agencies are studied.
Emphasis is on the examination of issues confronting various agencies.
The course focuses primarily on counselor certification and licensure, funding, records, laws, and ethical standards. The classification system of psychopathology is studied with emphasis on symptomatology, etiology, and implications for treatment modalities with special emphasis given to multiaxial diagnosis. Various treatment interventions including the adjunctive use of medications are presented. Students participate in group counseling demonstrations and explore methods of organizing different types of groups. Students consider which group counseling model and type of setting best lend themselves to the counseling process.