Major Title: Counseling Psychology
Major Description:
This scientist-practitioner program prepares students to apply psychological principles to improve mental health, relationships, and quality of life across diverse populations. Grounded in evidence-based practice, the curriculum integrates psychological theory, research methodologies, and clinical skills development. Students learn to assess mental health concerns, implement therapeutic interventions, and promote psychological well-being while adhering to ethical guidelines and cultural competence standards. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to helping individuals navigate life challenges and mental health issues.
Learning Objectives:
- Master major theories of counseling and psychotherapy
- Develop core competencies in therapeutic assessment and intervention
- Apply research methods to evaluate counseling outcomes
- Demonstrate multicultural counseling competencies
- Understand human development across the lifespan
- Adhere to ethical and legal professional standards
- Implement crisis intervention and suicide prevention strategies
- Utilize evidence-based practices for specific mental health concerns
- Develop professional identity as a counseling psychologist
Course Outline:
Theoretical Foundations
- Theories of Counseling & Psychotherapy
- Psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic approaches
- Integrative and contemporary models
- Lifespan Development
- Developmental crises and transitions
- Age-specific intervention strategies
Clinical Skills Development
- Counseling Techniques
- Microskills training
- Therapeutic alliance building
- Psychopathology & Diagnosis
- DSM-5-TR classification system
- Differential diagnosis
- Group Counseling
- Group dynamics and processes
- Therapeutic group facilitation
Specialized Applications
- Career Counseling
- Vocational assessment instruments
- Work-life balance interventions
- Couples & Family Counseling
- Systems theory applications
- Relational dynamics
- Trauma-Informed Care
- PTSD interventions
- Resilience-building approaches
Practical Training Components:
- 100+ hours of supervised skills labs
- 600-hour clinical practicum
- Video-recorded session reviews
- Case conceptualization exercises
Assessment Methods:
- Clinical competency evaluations
- Treatment planning assignments
- Research papers on counseling topics
- Comprehensive examinations
Program Duration:
5-6 year PhD (scientist-practitioner model)
OR
2-3 year Master's (licensure-track)
Licensure Preparation:
Meets educational requirements for:
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Licensed Psychologist (PhD track)
Career Outcomes:
- Licensed Counseling Psychologist
- Mental Health Counselor
- College/University Counselor
- Rehabilitation Counselor
- Research Psychologist
- Private Practice Therapist
Distinctive Features:
- Scientist-practitioner training model
- Emphasis on prevention and wellness
- Strong research-practice integration
- Multicultural competence focus
This program prepares graduates to deliver psychologically-informed counseling services while contributing to the scientific advancement of the field through research. Students develop both the clinical expertise and theoretical knowledge needed for professional practice in diverse mental health settings.
