PYC - Counseling/Psychology Concentration - Grad

PYC 7300 RELIGION & SPIRIUALITY IN PSYCHOLOGICAL PRACTICE (3)

This course introduces students to the practice of integrating religion, spirituality, and healing into the therapeutic relationship. Surveys the current issues about the assessment and treatment of clients incorporating religious and spiritual constructs, including the various religious worldviews, an understanding of the psychological development of religious and spiritual perspectives, the treatment of religious and spiritual dysfunction, the incorporation of religious and spiritual assets, the spiritual and healing aspects of the body and mind connection, the connection of spirituality with the creative process, and a review of the clinical research in this particular aspect of the counseling field.

PYC 7301 CULTURE & DIVERSITY IN COUNSELING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY (3)

This course addresses the influence of culture, race, class, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression, religion, nationality, age, ability, mental and physical characteristics, education, and family influences, on the provision of counseling services. Students will increase their cultural humility and evaluate societal trends, human roles, subgroups, norms, diverse lifestyles, and communication patterns. The course also emphasizes the examination of personal and institutional prejudice, bias, oppression, and discrimination, as well as psychosocial theories of multicultural counseling and identity development. Students will develop and increase personal awareness of cultural issues and professional multicultural counseling competencies, as well as gain insight into personal assumptions, values, beliefs, and expectations about self and others as a means of working more effectively with diverse populations in the therapeutic process.

PYC 7303 ADVANCED HUMAN SEXUALITY ACROSS CULTURES (3)

This course examines the ideologies and practices associated with sexuality from a broad perspective that incorporates various case studies about the ethnographic and clinical records. Working from the argument that much of human sexual behavior is culturally constructed rather than biologically determined, the course invites students to expand their notion of the "normal" and to consider the human condition from a cross-cultural perspective. Topics discussed include cross-cultural varieties of transgender experience, same-sex sexualities, and heteronormative identities. The second section of this course investigates the differences between kink sexualities, paraphilia, and sexual dysfunction.

PYC 7304 NEURODIVERSE & DIFFERENTLY ABLED PEOPLE (3)

This interdisciplinary seminar will investigate the emerging concepts of neurodiversity, and neurodivergence terms developed initially by autistic activists and self-advocates seeking to depathologize autism and other forms of neurological, mental, and cognitive difference. Neurodivergent refers to an individual with less typical cognitive variables such as Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, etc. Neurotypical relates to individuals of typical development and intellectual/cognitive functioning. This course emphasizes neurodiversity and its encounter with a world that has not been designed for them. Neuropsychological aspects of neurodiversity will also be presented in a non-pathologizing manner.

PYC 7392 PERSPECTIVES ON AGING (3)

This course, through the use of the final two stages of Erickson's developmental model, facilitates the development of a framework which is utilized to assess the experiences and needs of the older adult and their families. Course requires a minimum of 25 volunteer hours with older adults.

PYC 7400 JUVENILE OFFENDERS: IMPLICATIONS OF ASSESSMENT & DIAGNOSIS FOR REHABILITATION (3)

Students will focus on studying the forensic psychology of juvenile delinquents. Course material will address issues related to adolescent development, the psychology of juvenile delinquency, and the social and legal matters related to adolescent development and delinquent behavior. The course will cover issues in juvenile delinquency and violence, criminal prosecution of juvenile cases, and other issues involved in the interface between child psychology and the legal system. The course format emphasizes discussing current problems in the law and adolescent psychology field. Students will be expected to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the material and to formulate and express their own opinions on relevant issues and how to develop educational programs for juvenile offenders.

PYC 7402 ADVANCED CRIMINAL PROFILING (3)

This course explores the research and science of criminal investigative analysis, primarily in serial offenders. It studies the process of inferring distinctive personality characteristics of individuals responsible for committing criminal acts. This course also integrates broader societal contexts and implications and centers on the method that implies combining deductive and inductive profiling. Other subjects studied in this course include the analytic process of collecting and interpreting forensic evidence and the use of such evidence to develop offender characteristics. It approaches each crime as its universe of social relationships and behaviors and requires the examination and analysis of an actual homicide. An overview of the socio-legal aspects involving profiling and analysis of specific profiling issues in different types of serial crime are addressed.

PYC 7403 ADVANCED PSYCHOLOGY OF TERRORISM (3)

Examine terrorism and responses to terrorism from an applied psychological perspective. Emphasis is on identifying these standard features within and across terrorist organizations and on understanding the motives, objectives, and methods used by terrorists to achieve their goals. The main aim of the course is to develop an ability to describe and use the fundamental attributes of terrorist psychology and to educate students on the examination, analysis, comprehension, and evaluation of the behavior of terrorists. It also provides the intellectual foundation for further study in terrorism. This course also explores evidence-based deradicalization techniques and educational programs for incarcerated terrorists.

PYC 7404 ADVANCED PSYCHOLOGY IN THE LAW SYSTEM (3)

This course is designed to explore the application of psychological research and theory to the problems faced by the Legal System. Students will be given a broad overview of the relevant topics, issues, and methodologies in Psychology and Law. Students will be taught about the different professions that can emerge from this specialization: jury consultants, legal consultants, expert witnesses, defense consultants, etc.

PYC 7422 SOCIAL/CULTURAL CONCERNS IN COUNSELING (3)

Study of social, cultural and gender differences and issues related to counseling clients with various backgrounds, beliefs and concerns. Includes multicultural counseling techniques.

PYC 7552 SPECIAL TOPICS: COUNSELING (3)

Topics designed around special theories, practices or interests in the field of counseling.

PYC 7802 PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING (3)

Examines use of standardized tests to study individuals, including test development, selection, administration and interpretation. Includes educational and mental health applications.

PYC 7822 LIFE PLANNING AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT (3)

Focus on theory, research, techniques and tools used in life planning, transitions and career development.

PYC 7832 HUMAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT (3)

Examination of psychological, social, intellectual, and physical influences on the development of personality and behavior patterns in children, adolescents and adults.

PYC 7852 ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY (3)

Examination of major theories and systems pertaining to abnormal behavior. Studies implications for psychotherapy and treatment planning and diagnosis using DSM-IV. Prerequisite: Minimum of 15 semester credit hours of graduate counseling coursework.

PYC 7862 BIOLOGICAL BASES OF ABNORMAL BEHAVIOR (3)

Examination of current and classic research linking biological factors to deviation of human development and behavior from what is considered to be the norm. Includes the impact of revolution in neuroscience on the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of abnormal behavior. Study physiology of the central nervous system and how it triggers behaviors associated with a variety of DSM-listed disorders including depression, anxiety, addiction, and psychosis. Prerequisite: Minimum of 15 semester hours of graduate counseling coursework.

PYC 7922 COUNSELING THEORIES (3)

Examination of theories of personality development and therapeutic processes. Consideration of techniques for counseling applications and professional consultation.

PYC 7932 GROUP COUNSELING AND DYNAMICS (3)

Theories of group counseling. Includes techniques of observation, assessment and leadership in therapeutic groups.

PYC 8040 ADVANCED PSYCHODIAGNOSTIC AND TREATMENT PLAN (3)

As a preparation for Clinical Internship, students will expand their knowledge of the multi-axial system, DSM-IV/DSM-IV-TR diagnostic categories, differential diagnosis, and treatment planning. Emphasis will also be placed on the clinical interview and other initial assessment techniques, as well as skills critical to selecting and evaluating treatment options.

PYC 8082 FUNDAMENTALS OF TREATMENT OF TRAUMA, ABUSE, AND DEPRIVATION (3)

Introductory course presenting an integrated view of effects on personality development of childhood trauma, abuse and deprivation. Therapeutic interventions examined. Cross-listed with ACG 8400.

PYC 8092 INTEGRATION OF PSYCHOLOGY AND CHRISTIANITY (3)

Exploration of ways to integrate science and ethics of psychology with social, cultural and faith contexts of the Christian mental health professional. Emphasis on historical, philosophical, and theological perspectives of spiritual formation and growth. Prerequisite: 15 semester credit hours of graduate counseling coursework.

PYC 8112 THEORY AND TECHNIQUES IN MARRIAGE & FAMILY COUNSELING (3)

Examination of traditional and contemporary theories of family systems and approaches to marriage and family counseling. Prerequisite: 15 semester credit hours of PYC/PYF courses.

PYC 8122 HUMAN SEXUALITY (3)

Course provides students with knowledge and skills necessary to understand issues related to human sexuality. The course will explore the application of major human sexuality models in different cultures and worldviews.

PYC 8132 EXPRESSIVE ARTS THERAPIES (3)

Examines theories, techniques and applications of play, art, music, dance and other expressive therapeutic approaches. Prerequisite: Minimum of 15 semester credit hours of graduate counseling coursework.

PYC 8142 INTRODUCTION TO SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ADDICTION AND RELATED DISORDERS (3)

Introduction to patterns, causes, assessment and treatment of substance abuse and other addictive disorders. Student begins preparation of required portfolio. Prerequisites: PYF 7132 and PYC 7922.

PYC 8152 PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE (3)

Covers biopsychosocial components of addiction, such as risk factors; physiology of cravings, withdrawal, detox; physical effects of substance abuse and other patterns of addiction; dual diagnoses; psychopharmacology and treatment options.  Prerequisite: PYC 8142.

PYC 8162 PREVENTION, ASSESSMENT, TREATMENT OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE (3)

Course provides a multidisciplinary/multidimensional discussion. Topics include risk factors, outreach services, pretreatment, community education, referral networks and prevention activities in schools, the workplace, community groups, health care delivery organizations and others. Information is presented on best practices and care for select populations.  Prerequisite: PYC 8142.

PYC 8172 APPLICATIONS AND INTEGRATION OF EXPRESSIVE ARTS THERAPIES (3)

Integration of counseling foundation coursework and art applications and approaches. Content from individual and group counseling, human development, multicultural awareness, abnormal behavior, assessment and professional ethics and practice. Multi-arts expressions include, but are not limited to, art, play, music, dance/movement, drama, and writing. Prerequisite: Minimum of 15 semester credit hours of graduate counseling coursework.

PYC 8202 LEGAL AND ETHICAL ISSUES IN MARRIAGE/FAMILY THERAPY (3)

Course provides knowledge and understanding of the ethical principles, laws, and regulations relating to the practice of marriage, family and child therapy.

PYC 8212 FAMILY SYSTEMS THEORY (3)

In-depth study of major systems theories underlying family and relationship therapy. Prerequisite: Minimum of 15 semester credit hours of graduate counseling coursework.

PYC 8222 ADVANCED TECHNIQUES IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY (3)

Experiential course covering advanced assessment and therapeutic techniques used in marriage and family therapy. Prerequisites: PYC 8112 and PYC 8212.

PYC 8262 ADVANCED GROUP COUNSELING: SYSTEMS APPROACH (3)

In-depth study of systems theory applications to family and other therapy groups including brief review of traditional group counseling theories. Participation in group process is a significant part of the course. Prerequisites: PYC 7932 and PYC 8112 or PYC 8212.

PYC 8272 FAMILY AND SOCIETAL GENDER ISSUES (3)

Examination of sex-role stereotyping and its origins and consequences within the family, culture, and society. Includes counseling issues related to sex and gender-based prejudice and discrimination. Prerequisite: Minimum of 15 semester credit hours of graduate counseling coursework.

PYC 8282 CHILD AND ADOLESCENT THERAPY (3)

In-depth didactic and experiential examination of family system-oriented therapies with children and adolescents. Prerequisite: PYC 8212 or PYC 8112.

PYC 8312 PRINCIPLES, TECHNIQUES, AND PRACTICES IN EXPRESSIVE ARTS THERAPY (3)

Examines principles and techniques for clinical practice of art therapy in residential, out-patient and private practice settings. Includes potential in art for the development of emotional, social, perceptual and cognitive strengths in children and adults.

PYC 8342 CLINICAL ISSUES IN EXPRESSIVE ARTS THERAPY (3)

Advanced study of Expressive Arts Therapy assessment, treatment planning and techniques as applied to selected client disorders and issues in education and clinical practice. Prerequisite: Admission to Expressive Arts Therapy specialty and PYC 8312.

PYC 8362 COUNSELING ADULTS I: EARLY/MIDDLE ADULTHOOD (3)

Strategies will be studied for understanding, assessing, and counseling adults in young to middle adulthood, with attention to social, emotional and physical stressors specific to these adult life cycle stages and the transition between stages. Emphasis is placed on the individual within a systems context (family, organization, community, culture, etc.).

PYC 8372 COUNSELING ADULTS II:LATE ADULTHOOD (3)

Specific strategies will be studied for understanding, assessing and counseling adults in late adulthood. Emphasis placed on social, emotional and physical stressors specific to this adult developmental stage and related transitions, as well as on understanding the individual within a systems context.

PYC 8392 SEX THERAPY (3)

This course incorporates the diagnosis and treatment of sexual dysfunctions. Behavioral and non-behavioral methods and strategies are explored. Other topics include sexual abuse treatment with children and adults, medical factors related to sexuality and sexual functioning, and dynamics of interpersonal intimacy.

PYC 8410 CHILDREN AND COMPLEX TRAUMA (3)

This course delineates theoretical and practical integration of eco-developmental approaches to psychological trauma. Consequences of early traumatic experience are mapped in the context of psycho-social developmental processes, including attachment, social interaction, emotional expression, and cognitive construction of worldview. The impact of repeated trauma in the lives of children and adolescents is explored in the context of developmental transformations and in relationship to psychopathology, gender, and bio-physiology.

PYC 8422 CLINICAL ASSESSMENT TRAUMA (3)

Examines techniques for assessing emotional health, pathology and dysfunction and time-sensitive techniques for treatment. Includes student observation and participation. Prerequisite: Admission to Trauma, Abuse and Deprivation specialty.

PYC 8424 ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT OF TAD CHILDREN (3)

This course prepares the student to carry out complex assessment and interventions within a family setting and with children. The primary focus is to stimulate reflection on and discussion of clinical work with traumagenic families, gain experience of and confidence in formulating and facilitating constructive clinical interventions. Topics also include strengthening the theory-practice link and increased skill in effective traumagenic family collaborative recovery.

PYC 8442 ADVANCED CLINICAL APPLICATION (3)

Focus on advanced techniques and resources for assessing and treating the effects of trauma, abuse and deprivation on children and adults. Emphasis on holistic approach to recovery and growth. Prerequisite: Admission to Trauma, Abuse and Deprivation specialty.

PYC 8452 WELLNESS COUNSELING: RISK, PREVENTION AND MODIFICATION (3)

Course examines health promotion models, preventive management techniques, and models and techniques for behavior change. Comprehensive inquiry focusing on psychological processes, and individual behaviors and lifestyles which affect a person's physical, emotional and social health. Topics include stress and illness, personality and disease, high-risk populations and behaviors, and gender and cultural issues.

PYC 8462 EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE AND COUNSELING (3)

Exploration of issues, policies and practices related to employee assistance programs in business, education, health care, and other settings. Includes consideration of counseling theories and relevant counseling techniques for employee assistance programs.

PYC 8552 ADVANCED SPECIAL TOPICS: COUNSELING (3)

Advanced elective graduate topics in the field of Counseling.