This foundational course clarifies key issues in human nature and prepares the student for developing a world-view that is consistent with their theological and spiritual orientation.

The study of developmental issues and life events from infancy to old age and the effect of age upon cognitive, affective, personality and moral development. Attention is given to cultural, gender, and spiritual influences on development.

The study of social and cultural foundations of the behavior of individuals, families, and diverse groups, including contextual factors affecting treatment (poverty, resilience, stress, divorce, family systems, etc.). Exploration of how therapeutic interventions impact culturally distinct populations.

Professional ethics and laws that apply to the counseling profession are identified and discussed. These include ethical, legal, and biblical standards for conduct, professional organizations, licensure, and developing a plan for lifelong professional and personal development with integrity.

Principles of etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental disorders are explored through the lens of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM5).

Major counseling theories and techniques are examined and applied in the context of the helping relationship.

Continuing exploration of psychological therapies and techniques with emphasis on the adoption of a theoretical orientation for explaining the etiology and treatment of various mental disorders.

The components of effective child psychotherapy are examined. Emphasis is placed on the process of diagnosis, understanding the systemic nature of child pathology, and evidence based practices for treatment.

Examines legal, ethical, and clinical aspects of child and elder abuse reporting, such as mandatory methods of identifying victims, prevention and intervention, and treatment techniques.

This course is an overview of current family systems theories and intervention techniques. Emphasis is placed on clinical application with case presentations.

A specialized course for students who wish to work with the rapidly expanding elderly segment of society. Focus is on the application of assessment and intervention techniques for older adults and their families.

A close look at career development theory, with emphasis on gender, family, and social/cultural issues that impact career choices. Techniques and assessment instruments that facilitate lifelong career development will be utilized.

Theories and techniques of group therapy are studied as well as basic and advanced group interventions. Students learn the stages of group dynamics, the curative factors of group therapy, and various types of group treatment.

This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to administer, score, and interpret several assessment instruments. Students will be familiar with validity, reliability, and psychometric statistics.

An investigation into the history and development of crisis intervention and trauma response. Develops required skills to effectively intervene and assist victims of tragedy or abuse.

This course is a study of human sexuality and intimacy. Other areas of emphasis include gender issues, sexual disorders, sexual orientation, and sexual abuse.

Examination of commonly prescribed psychopharmacological medications, as well as the identification of their effects and side effects.

This course emphasizes evidence-based assessment and intervention skills in the treatment of addictions and compulsive behaviors, as well as co-occurring disorders. All facets of alcohol and substance abuse/dependency will be examined.

This course is an in depth examination of various experimental designs, statistical procedures, conclusions, and limitations of research parameters. Emphasis will be placed on the theoretical and practical applications of research methods of psychotherapy.

Prior to practicum assignments in various approved counseling centers, hospitals, clinics, and social service agencies, all students are required to be observed as they counsel at least one client at the onsite counseling center. Digital recordings of therapy sessions will be utilized to improve therapeutic skills, promote self-awareness, and an understanding of how people change. Upon approval by the Director of Clinical Training, the student will then enroll in PSY 6095.

Supervised therapy experience in applied psychotherapeutic techniques at an external agency. This course provides support, supervision, and consultation for students' training at their practicum site. A total of 700 hours, 300 of which are face-to-face direct service, must be accrued throughout the practicum course sequence. Students must be training at an approved site to be enrolled in this course.

Supervised therapy experience in applied psychotherapeutic techniques at an external agency. This course provides support, supervision, and consultation for students' training at their practicum site. A total of 700 hours, 300 of which are face-to-face direct service, must be accrued throughout the practicum course sequence. Students must be training at an approved site to be enrolled in this course.

Supervised therapy experience in applied psychotherapeutic techniques at an external agency. This course provides support, supervision, and consultation for students' training at their practicum site. A total of 700 hours, 300 of which are face-to-face direct service, must be accrued throughout the practicum course sequence. Students must be training at an approved site to be enrolled in this course.

Students who complete the three required practicum courses before the end of the program can continue to earn counseling hours toward licensure by staying in practicum status while completing the program.