PSYC 260 - Introduction to Counseling

Credit Hours: 3
Lecture Hours: 3
Laboratory (or Other) Hours: 0

General Education Code(s): 23DV, 23OC, 23SS
Other Course Attribute(s): LASC

Prerequisite(s): PSYC 100
This course provides a general overview of counseling theories, an introduction to counseling techniques, the conditions which facilitate an effective counseling relationship, and stages in the counseling process. lt is designed to enhance students’ awareness of the field of counseling, including processes, theories, and specialties as well as diversity of professional counseling paradigms.

Student Learning Outcomes of the Course: The General Education requirement for Diversity: Equity, Inclusion, & Social Justice is satisfied by psyc 260. To meet this General Education requirement, students will be able to:

describe the historical and contemporary societal factors that shape the development of individual and group identity involving race, class, and gender;
analyze the role that complex networks of social structures and systems play in the creation and perpetuation of the dynamics of power, privilege, oppression, and opportunity; and
apply the principles of rights, access, equity, and autonomous participation to past, current, or future social justice action.

The General Education requirement for Social Sciences is satisfied by PSYC 260. To meet this General Education requirement, students will be able to:

describe major concepts and theories of at least one discipline in the social sciences; and
demonstrate an understanding of the methods social scientists use to explore social phenomena.

The General Education requirement for Oral Communication is satisfied by PSYC 260. To meet this General Education requirement, students will be able to:

research a topic, develop an argument, and organize supporting details;
demonstrate coherent college-level oral communication that informs, persuades, or otherwise engages with an audience;
evaluate communication for substance, bias, and intended effect; and
demonstrate the ability to revise and improve oral communication.

Students who successfully complete the course will be able to (course-specific learning outcomes):

Describe ethical principles that guide counselors in therapy.
Demonstrate basic stages in establishing a therapeutic relationship in the counseling process.
Analyze values, attitudes, and biases related to counseling.
Understand the importance of multicultural competence in the practice of counseling.
Identify how personal values, attitudes, and prejudice impact the counseling session and client.

Repeatable: No
CIP Code: 422899