PSYC 505: Introduction to Counseling

This course is designed to provide a general introduction to the field of counseling psychology. The course begins with a review of the history and the development the field of counseling. The relationship of counseling to other professions and disciplines (e.g., clinical psychology, psychiatry, social work) will be reviewed. Next, the principle theoretical perspectives of counseling will be explored. Later, we will examine the contemporary issues that influence the counseling profession, including ethics, assessment, working with diverse populations, and public policy processes such as system and client advocacy. Finally, students will have an opportunity to learn about training, job settings, and activities in which counselors are involved.