The theoretical orientation of the M.S. Program in Mental Health Counseling promotes a psychotherapy integration approach. Student trainees are encouraged to discover the psychotherapeutic/philosophical orientation that best fits them and to integrate and use treatment techniques derived from all models of psychotherapy. The M.S. Program in Mental Health Counseling operates on a cohort model. Students enter as a class and go through the curriculum together, fostering a sense of cohesion and trust that will facilitate introspection, discussion and constructive feedback and, ultimately, growth. Cohort sizes are kept small so that we can monitor the progress of each student’s academic, clinical and personal experience.
Our training curriculum is based on the belief that the best therapists are those who have achieved a greater degree of self-awareness and insight. We promote introspection and personal growth as a path to facilitating the growth and development of others. Psychosocial and cultural factors, including class, race, gender, religion and sexual orientation, represent direct and powerful influences on the development of health and pathology. These factors are inherent in both the training and psychotherapeutic process and must be understood and integrated.
Our clinically experienced faculty exposes students to the major treatment models and trains them to develop treatments based upon the needs of the client and the strengths and weaknesses of various treatment models. Students are trained in an integrated model that considers both science and practice. A systematic selection of eclectic techniques is taught based upon a broad and unified theoretical approach. The program expects and models the highest standards of professionalism and ethical practice as defined, in part, by American Psychological Association (APA) and American Counseling Association (ACA). Furthermore, the program assists in promoting student development of these qualities. The faculty provide support throughout the program in the form of academic advisement, psychological support, and career guidance. Students can pursue research opportunities with undergraduate and graduate faculty. Students should meet with their advisors to refine their research interests and explore opportunities to work with potential faculty.