Counseling Theories and Practice

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

• Understand the historical and cultural development of various theories [CACREP standards 3.E.1, 3.E.7]

• Understand the predominant counseling theories, including systems approach to understanding clients, and apply them to case examples [CACREP standards 3.E.1, 3.E.2, 3.E.3]

• Understand, from a theoretical perspective, various ways of establishing and maintaining relationships with clients [CACREP standards 3.E.7]

• Understand the relationship between theories of counseling and the practice of counseling, with particular emphasis on case conceptualization and effective interventions [CACREP standards 3.E.2, 3.E.9, 3.E.13]

• Understand evidence-based counseling strategies and techniques for prevention and intervention from various theoretical perspectives [CACREP standards 3.E.15]

• Articulate the rudiments of students’ current theory of counseling and develop an appreciation for their continued process of theory development [CACREP standards 3.E.21]

• Develop an awareness of how their personal characteristics and worldview affect their preference for different theories [CACREP standards 3.E.21]

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure	Percentage/Points
Personal Theory of Change Reflection	50 points
Midterm Exam (on Canvas)	100 points
Theory Development & Application Paper	250 points
Final Exam (on Canvas)	100 points
Theory Review Sheets (5)	100 points
Participation & Attendance	150 points
Professional Behavior/Disposition	50 points

Extra Credit: Alternative Theory Review Sheet | 5 points

Grading Scale

Points	Percentage	Letter Grade
720-800	90-100%	A
640-719	80-89.99%	B
560-639	70-79.99%	C
< 559	Below 70%	F

Attendance/Participation:

Regular attendance and active participation are essential to your success in this course and are worth up to 150 points. Students are permitted one unexcused absence during the semester. Additional unexcused absences will result in a 10-point deduction and may impact your final grade.

Absences may be considered excused for reasons recognized by the university, including documented illness, religious observances, university-sponsored activities, military obligations, or other significant circumstances approved by the instructor. Students are responsible for communicating with the instructor as soon as possible regarding an absence and providing appropriate documentation when required.

Repeated tardiness or early departures may also affect your participation grade. You are expected to come prepared, having completed the assigned readings and ready to contribute thoughtfully. Participation includes asking questions, engaging in discussions, and engaging in respectful dialogue.

As future professional counselors, you are also expected to maintain confidentiality around any personal material shared in class and to help promote a respectful, supportive learning environment. Additionally, because this course is graduate level, it may be reading and writing intensive at times, so managing your time well and staying on top of assignments will be important for your success.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

Kress, V. E., Seligman, L. W., & Reichenberg, L. W. (2021). Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy: Systems, Strategies, and Skills (5th ed.). Pearson.