Program Description
The M.A. in Counseling Psychology program at the D.C. Campus is distinctive in that students receive a solid foundation in the principles of clinical psychology, along with the essential diagnostic, therapeutic, and consultative skills they need to work with a range of clinical populations and a variety of emotional and psychological conditions. Students learn theoretical frameworks and scientific bases, the ethical and professional guidelines of the clinical psychology and counseling profession, and the impact of diversity and cultural issues in the mental health field. Multicultural education and hands-on practice is integrated throughout the curriculum and students can choose from a variety of concentrations suited to their particular educational and professional goals.
The curriculum incorporates the eight content areas outlined by the National Board of Certified Counselors and prepares graduates to sit for professional counselor licensure in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware and can be adjusted to conform to the requirements for licensure in other nearby states in the region.
Department
Counseling Psychology
Concentrations
Child and Adolescent Treatment, Treatment of Addiction Disorders
Licensure
• Washington, D.C., program is designed in accordance with licensure requirements in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware and can be adjusted to conform with the requirements for licensure in other nearby states in the region.
Total Credits
60
Fieldwork Requirements
Year 2: 700-hour (minimum) placement experience
Sample Courses
Existential-Humanistic Psychotherapy
Introduces students to the theoretical concepts and clinical applications of the humanistic and existential approach to psychotherapy and counseling including person-centered, Gestalt, and transpersonal approaches to psychotherapy. In addition, group modalities within this theoretical umbrella are addressed.
Introduction to Addictions
Surveys the biological, psychological, social, political, and spiritual aspects of addictions. Addiction is broadly defined and includes substance abuse, gambling, internet, sex, food, and other modern day addictions. The course considers a strength-based holistic model for assessment, conceptualization, and treatment care planning. Included are basic pharmacological, physiological, and medical aspects of chemical dependence along with current evidenced-based research and treatment care models and treatment delivery systems. There is a special focus on the dually -diagnosed (MISA population), addiction across the life span, and diversity.
Foundations of Family Therapy
Introduces students to family systems theory and its application. Basic assumptions, major issues, primary theorists, and techniques of major theoretical models of family therapy are covered. Students learn preventative and treatment approaches to treating specific problems that impede family functioning. Specific attention is paid to issues of diversity and multicultural competence in family therapy.
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