Counseling Theory & Practice (PSY4240.01)

Christine McAuliffe

Theories are the “road maps” that therapists use to help them think about their clients’ behavior, make decisions about how to treat their clients, and guide their responses to their clients during sessions. This course presents an overview of the major theoretical systems of counseling and psychotherapy with a special focus on the philosophical assumptions, key concepts, techniques and practical applications of each approach. Each of the theories will be examined critically, especially their appropriateness for working with diverse populations. Professional issues related to the counseling process and discussing/practicing basic helping skills will also be a focus of the course.


Learning Outcomes:
1. Students will learn about the current, historical, and most prevalent counseling and psychotherapy theories.
2. Students will develop an understanding of the goals and process of therapy as well as the therapeutic relationship.
3. Students will begin to understand the appropriate application of theories with diverse populations/issues and in various contexts.
4. Students will continue to develop advanced organizational, writing, and independent critical thinking skills as they progress through the course.


Delivery Method: Fully remote
Prerequisites: Registration decisions based on seniority. Contact Christine McAuliffe (christinemcauliffe@bennington.edu) for registration information.
Course Level: 4000-level
Credits: 4
W 2:10PM - 5:50PM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 20
Course Frequency: One time only

Categories: All courses , Fully remote , Psychology
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