PYC - Counseling/Psychology Concentration - Grad

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. 

This course addresses the influence of diverse social, cultural, and personal variables on the provision of psychotherapy and counseling services, including culture, religion, nationality, education, and family influences. Students will increase their cultural literacy and evaluate societal trends, human roles, subgroups, norms, and communication patterns. 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. The role of placebos and indigenous therapies will also be explored in this course.

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.

This interdisciplinary seminar will investigate in depth the concept of neurodivergence as well as other forms of neurological, mental, and cognitive differences. Neurodivergence refers to an individual with less typical cognitive variables such as Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, etc. 

The relevance of religion and spirituality in the lives of a continually increasing number of clients seeking counseling is the inspiration for this introductory course.  Psychology’s origin is rooted in the word, psyche, meaning soul, and –ology meaning scientific study of.  The inclusion of the soul and spirit in the mind/body connection is an under-explored area of inquiry and research. Students will learn the differentiation between religion and spirituality, using modern approaches to establish clear definitions.  This course includes the study of Fowler’s Six Stages of Faith Development, Kohlberg’s Stages of Moral Development, and the mastery of practical skills such as conceptualization and appropriate questioning, using a variety of treatment modalities.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This course is an active theory, skills and discussion course for professionals heeding the call to help clients through the stages of grieving by exploring the cosmologies and theologies which relate to clients’ specific cultures and beliefs about a variety of losses, choices and dilemmas.  This course will engage students to explore developmental topics of understanding Self and the finality of life, “real life” situations in the grieving stages, expectations of terminal illness, and moving beyond grief and loss, incorporating the death and dying fundamentals of Kubler-Ross.

Study of individual identities and experiences related to counseling clients with various backgrounds, beliefs and concerns. Includes effective counseling techniques. 

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

The sacred texts of the world’s religions are a fascinating mix of history, advice, rules, mythology and ritual and are used for guidance, encouragement, healing, and inspiration. Familiarization with these writings provides the student with a broad overview of their origin, form, and content especially as they impact the lives of their clients’ beliefs in the purpose of life and the existence of an afterlife. Understanding how these texts convey spiritual truth, establish a connection with the divine, and align with a life span/developmental perspective provides the groundwork for counselors to utilize skills that help clients to internally process issues that can shake their faith. Integrating hermeneutical skills, to interpret and understand sacred texts through an objective, social and subjective approach, can also assist beginning counselors in their development of microskills such as reflection, attending and observing, and empathy.

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.

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.

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.

In a complex world, people are struggling to nurture and maintain their mental well-being, self-fulfillment and hope. Counseling practices which include positive states and traits assist a person’s spiritual belief formation regarding life and fulfillment of his/her purposes and goals in life. This course examines the relationship between religious faith and optimal psychological functioning. By the strengthening of bonds between positive psychology and the science of religion and spirituality, there is evidence that by focusing on positive emotions, an individual’s spiritual practices can influence their physiological as well as psychological wellbeing.

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.

There is a growing recognition of the importance of the spiritual domain in the counseling process and the need for training materials and strategies for integrating the ASERVIC competencies into the field of counseling. The Competencies for Addressing Spiritual and Religious Issues in Counseling are the groundwork for professionals to effectively and ethically communicate with their clients on religious and spiritual questions and issues.  The competencies include such topics as: counselor self-awareness by exploring attitudes, beliefs, and personal values; various models of spiritual and/or religious development and their relationship to human development; and, diagnosis and treatment recognizing the client’s spiritual and/or religious perspectives.  This course is grounded in a spiritually-based application through a multi-modal approach of theories and competency-based strategies and interventions for ethical practice – honoring the sacred in the lives of those seeking spiritual counseling.

Course provides students with knowledge and skills necessary to understand issues related to human sexual behavior. The course will explore the application of major scientific models in human sexual behavior. 

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.

Introduction to patterns, causes, assessment and treatment of substance abuse and other addictive disorders. 

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Advanced elective graduate topics in the field of Counseling.