COURSE DESCRIPTION
A comprehensive study of the major theories of marriage and family counseling. Skill building through media, modeling, and role playing.
COURSE RATIONALE
Students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to begin counseling couples and families. Students will learn various approaches to helping with marriage and family conflicts related to divorce, complex family dynamics, issues surrounding children, and family violence. In addition, students will learn how to navigate the, sometimes difficult, issues of couples in conflict.
REQUIRED TEXTBOOK
Rathus, S. A. (2020). HDEV6: human lifespan development. Cengage.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Knowledge and Skill Learning Outcomes: CACREP Standards
· Section 2: 3.a. theories of individual and family development across the lifespan
· Section 2: 3.b. theories of learning
· Section 2: 3.c. theories of normal and abnormal personality development
· Section 2: 3.d. theories and etiology of addictions and addictive behaviors
· Section 2: 3.e. biological, neurological, and physiological factors that affect human development, functioning, and behavior
· *Section 2: 3.f. systemic and environmental factors that affect human development, functioning, and behavior KPI
· Section 2: 3.g. effects of crisis, disasters, and trauma on diverse individuals across the lifespan
· *Section 2: 3.h. a general framework for understanding differing abilities and strategies for differentiated interventions KPI
· Section 2: 3.i. ethical and culturally relevant strategies for promoting resilience and optimum development and wellness across the lifespan
· Section 5C: 1.d. neurobiological and medical foundation and etiology of addiction and co-occurring disorders
· Section 5C: 2.f. impact of crisis and trauma on individuals with mental health diagnoses
· Section 5C: 2.g. impact of biological and neurological mechanisms on mental health
· Section 5C: 2.j. cultural factors relevant to clinical mental health counseling
· Section 5C: 3.b. techniques and interventions for prevention and treatment of a broad range of mental health issues
· Section 5C: 3.d. strategies for interfacing with integrated behavioral health care professionals
· Section 5C: 3.e. strategies to advocate for persons with mental health issues
Learning Objectives
1. Demonstrate an understanding of and be able to compare and contrast theories of various approaches of individual and family development and transitions across the life span.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of and critique theories of learning and personality development, including current understandings about neurobiological behavior.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of theories and approaches facilitating optimal development and wellness over the life span.
4. Recognize the importance of understanding the nature and needs of diverse individuals at all developmental levels in the ethical provision of counseling services.
5. Perceive multicultural and pluralistic trends of individuals at all developmental levels, including characteristics and concerns between and within diverse groups nationally and internationally.
Midwestern State University Values:
· People-Centered – Engage others with respect, empathy, and joy.
· Community – Cultivate a diverse and inclusive campus environment.
· Integrity – Always do the right thing.
· Visionary – Adopt innovative ideas to pioneer new paths.
· Connections – Value relationships with broader communities.