Major: Psychological Counseling and Guidance
Overview: This program trains professionals to support individuals' psychological well-being, facilitate personal development, and provide guidance across various life domains. Designed to meet the needs of educational and healthcare systems, the major combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates to work in schools, clinics, counseling centers, and other support services.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand psychological, emotional, and social development across the lifespan.
- Develop expertise in counseling techniques and intervention strategies.
- Learn to use psychological assessment and measurement tools effectively.
- Gain skills in crisis intervention, trauma support, and guidance for special needs.
- Acquire knowledge in educational and career counseling.
- Apply ethical principles and professional standards in practice.
Core Courses:
Introduction to Psychological Counseling and Guidance
- Fundamental principles, history, and application areas of counseling and guidance.
Developmental Psychology
- Lifespan development: physical, cognitive, emotional, and social stages.
Counseling Theories and Techniques
- Key counseling theories (e.g., cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, psychodynamic) and practical techniques.
Psychological Assessment and Evaluation
- Use of psychological tests, inventories, and assessment tools.
Crisis and Trauma Counseling
- Crisis intervention, post-trauma support, and disaster response techniques.
Educational and Career Guidance
- Guidance processes for students and adults in education and career planning.
Group Counseling
- Techniques for facilitating group therapy and support sessions.
Ethics and Professional Standards
- Ethical guidelines, confidentiality, and professional responsibilities in counseling.
Practicum in Counseling
- Hands-on experience through supervised internships in schools, clinics, or counseling centers.
Capstone Project
- Comprehensive project applying counseling skills to real-world cases or research.
Assessment Methods:
- Case study analyses
- Counseling session simulations
- Psychological assessment reports
- Research projects on counseling techniques
- Practicum evaluations and capstone projects
Recommended Textbooks:
- Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy by Gerald Corey
- Counseling Children by Charles Schaefer and Donna Cangelosi
- Career Counseling: A Holistic Approach by Vernon Zunker
- Crisis Intervention Strategies by Richard James and Burl Gilliland
- Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues in Counseling by Theodore Remley and Barbara Herlihy
Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of psychology or social sciences. Suitable for students interested in mental health, education, or social support roles.
Duration: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, including coursework, practicum, and internships.
Certification: Graduates earn a degree in Psychological Counseling and Guidance and can pursue licensure or certifications in counseling, therapy, or related fields.
Career Paths:
- School Counselor (K-12 or higher education)
- Clinical Counselor (mental health clinics, hospitals)
- Career Counselor (universities, employment agencies)
- Trauma/Crisis Counselor (NGOs, disaster response teams)
- Rehabilitation Counselor (special needs support)
- Family/Marriage Therapist (private practice or community centers)
Why This Major? This program prepares students to make a meaningful impact in individuals' lives by addressing mental health needs, supporting personal growth, and guiding educational and career decisions. Graduates play a critical role in fostering well-being in diverse communities.
