Introduces the basic techniques of interviewing, counseling, and treatment therapies used in the mental health and social work fields. Course is comprised of two parts: theory and field experience. The theoretical portion will introduce interviewing, counseling, and treatment therapies through 45 hours of in-class instruction. The course will expand on the historical and political aspects of the field of social work. Field experience will provide students the opportunity to learn at cooperating mental health agencies, under the guidance of a licensed professional, for 45 clock hours of off-campus learning.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
- Counseling and social work theories
- Discuss counseling, mental health, and social work philosophies, values, and ethics.
- Analyze the historical factors affecting current counseling, mental health, and social work trends.
- Compare and contrast different frameworks and the varying political systems motivating those frameworks.
- Identify vulnerable groups within the U.S. society.
- Identify and interpret political factors which contribute to societys' desires or refusals to supply needed services.
- Define the roles and functions of a community-based social service technician or a member of a clinical treatment or recovery support services team.
- Counseling and social work techniques
- Compare and contrast different counseling and social work techniques.
- Identify processes, programs, organizations, and tangible resources that are available to those in need.
- Participate in active listening and communication activities.
- Field experience
- Identify the different professional roles available in the areas of counseling, mental health, and social work.
- Demonstrate and apply knowledge about diversity.
- Apply theory to practice within a field experience under the direction of a licensed professional counselor, social worker, or psychologist.
- Participate in active listening and communication activities.
- Define the roles and functions of a community-based social service technician or a member of a clinical treatment or recovery support services team.
Assessment and Requirements
Assessment of academic achievement may include, but not be limited to case studies, field experience reports, quizzes, research projects, research papers, group assignments, or final exam.
Students must have a cleared criminal background check within the last year.
To be determined by program faculty.