M.A. in Counseling Psychology, Child and Adolescent Treatment Concentration
Program Description
Students in the Child and Adolescent Treatment concentration within the Counseling Psychology master’s program learn about best-practice approaches with children and adolescents in the area of the assessment and treatment of youth. The goal is to prepare students to work as entry-level practitioners capable of effectively working with children representing the full age spectrum, from early childhood through adolescence. Emphasis is on developing a conceptual and experiential background in working with the mental health needs of these young populations within a wide range of familial and cultural lifestyles. In addition to students acquiring expert psychotherapy techniques with children, additional focus is provided on related topics such as working with parents and schools, the importance of the context of referral, and the relationship between the child’s developmental stage and therapeutic activities and goals.
Department
Clinical Counseling
Concentrations
Licensure
Chicago program prepares graduates to sit for professional counselor licensure in Illinois (LPC and LCPC) and other states
Total Credits
60
Fieldwork Requirements
• Year 2: 700-hour (minimum) placement experience• Chicago: sites meet Licensed Supervisor standards
Degree
- Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
Coursework
- A course in Psychology, with a grade earned of C or better
- A course in Statistics or Research Methods, with a grade earned of C or better
Additional
Admission Requirements
GRE Requirements
Sample Courses
Assessment and Treatment Planning of Children and Adolescents
Considers the various theories of etiology of child psychopathology and the implications for diagnosis, consultation, and treatment. The course also surveys the major methods of cognitive, personality, and educational tests, as well as behavioral rating scales commonly used in the psychological assessment of children and adolescents. Strengths-based approaches to assessment of children and adolescents are explored. Special considerations that arise in assessing these age groups are emphasized throughout the course, including individual differences, contextualized assessments, and assessment within a normative-developmental framework.
Psychotherapy with Adolescents
Examines the relevant therapeutic and developmental considerations encountered in psychotherapy with adolescents. In addition to a survey of the major theoretical approaches and the basic techniques of psychotherapy with adolescents, topics considered include working with parents and schools, the importance of the context of referral, and treatment and the relationship between the adolescent's developmental stage and therapeutic activities and goals.
Advanced Family and Couples Therapy
Provides an overview of advanced theory and technique, as well as skills training in family and couples therapy with an emphasis on the development of a personal model of counseling. Diagnostic skills, case analysis, and relationship strategies are emphasized. Particular attention is paid to engaging children and adolescents in the family therapy setting. The course also explore the impact of macro systems issues such as gender, power, and economics on contemporary relationships.
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Making a Difference Around the Globe