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Psychology Courses
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| Required Core Courses |
PSY 6502 Counseling Theories and Strategies | 3 Credits
This course explores the major psychotherapeutic models and theories in current use. The focus is on the application of techniques to a variety of clinical situations to improve, restore, or maintain healthy individual, couple, and family relationships. Emphasis is given to the development of those personal qualities that are intimately related to the counseling situation such as integrity, sensitivity, flexibility, insight, compassion, and personal presence.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Distinguish between the major theories of psychotherapy
- Identify the major figures that developed major theories
- Analyze case studies by applying major theories for analysis
- Assess interventions based on each theory
- Examine the strengths and limitations of a major theory
- Describe your personal counseling style and theoretical orientation
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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MFT 6504 Ethical Issues in Marriage, Family and Child Therapy | 2 Credits
This course examines legal and ethical issues as they relate to the privileged relationship between therapist and client. Areas of study include an examination of general legislation regarding licensing and the practice of psychology, with a focus on the laws and regulations and the scope of practice for the Marriage, Family and Child Therapist. Learners will gain experience in the development of integrity and awareness of issues related to dual relationships.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Summarize the ethical principles of psychologists and mental health professionals
- Describe the major issues related to sound and professional practice in human services
- Analyze positions on ethical and value issues
- Interpret the standards of record keeping for psychotherapists
- Assess California laws regulating the practice of psychotherapy, including issues of confidentiality, and privileged communications
- Summarize the statutory and case law regarding duty to inform (Tarasoff), child and elder abuse reporting, danger to self and involuntary confinement
- Examine the training, supervision, and state licensing requirements
- Compare and contrast the various means to resolve ethical conflicts and ethical board complaints
- Examine the scope of practice for a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Analyze and critique demonstration segments
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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PSY 6505 Theories of Human Development and Functioning | 3 Credits
This course studies the maturational and behavioral forces that affect the individual through various phases of life. This course will include content on individual and family development across the lifespan. Specific emphasis will be given to developmentally appropriate and atypical transitions related to common concerns in therapy and explore how these theories affect the therapeutic relationship.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Analyze individual developmental theories and apply these to actual, simulated situations
- Examine various developmental theories such as Erikson, Freud and Kohlberg, etc.
- Distinguish between the various theories
- Analyze the complexities of the interactions between heredity and environment in development
- Compare and contrast various developmental theories into the various life stages
- Assess developmental events which may have an impact upon the lives of other individuals
- Synthesize the various life span issues
- Demonstrate knowledge of developmental theories and how they interrelate
- Synthesize knowledge of individual developmental analysis
- Analyze the effects of controversial issues related to life span development
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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PSY 6506 Psychopathology | 3 Credits
This course provides an integrated course of study that trains in the diagnosis, assessment, prognosis and treatment of mental disorders. The focus of study is to build practical clinical skills in diagnosis, problem formulation, and crisis intervention. In addition to the DSM IV, the course examines psychopathology from a psychodynamic, behavioral, humanistic, and psychosocial perspective.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Summarize the different paradigms of abnormality
- Analyze the existing etiologic theories of psychopathology and the supportive research when such exists
- Explain the Multiaxial system of the DSM IV
- Illustrate the symptomology associated with each diagnostic criteria
- Formulate clinical observation and assessment skills for diagnostic interpretation
- Analyze psychotherapeutic interventions
- Summarize legal and ethical issues related to psychopathology
- Evaluate and analyze the impact of human diversity issues
- Analyze relevant journal articles
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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MFT 6507 Human Sexuality | 1 Credits
This course introduces the fundamentals of sexuality and sex therapy needed for working as a marriage or relationship therapist. The focus of study includes a survey of the ethical and professional issues in the assessment and treatment of sexual disorders. Learners are also taught to explore the physiological-psychological and social-cultural variables associated with sexual identity, sexual behavior and sexual disorders.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Distinguish differences in human sexual anatomy and physiology
- Investigate sexuality and the life cycle
- Identify the nature and origin of sexual difficulties and synthesize the impact of drugs on sexuality
- Describe the basics of sex therapy
- Assess the PLISSIT model of sex therapy
- Examine chronic illnesses and disabilities that affect sexual functioning
- Describe and discuss sexually transmitted diseases and prevention guidelines
- Identify atypical sexual behavior, common characteristics of those exhibiting it, and understand the etiology
- Examine sexual victimization
- Analyze psychosocial orientations to the study of human sexuality
- Summarize the historical/religious roots of gender-role legacy
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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PSY 6508 Cross Cultural Mores and Values | 3 Credits
This course explores cross-cultural mores and values with an emphasis on problems and solutions. The focus of study aims to heighten awareness, compassion, and understanding for effective therapy practice including familiarity with the wide range of racial and ethnic backgrounds common among California’s population, including but not limited to Blacks, Hispanics, Asians and Native Americans. This course guides Learners to focus on their culture of origin to increase awareness of their own heritage and to increase their appreciation of the impact of cultural diversity upon individuals.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Analyze and explain your own cultural background
- Compare and contrast issues and practices relevant to helping people from culturally diverse backgrounds
- Differentiate between counseling practices appropriately, given issues of gender, ethnicity & age
- Assess processes and issues related to clients of various ethnic & cultural origins
- Analyze the cultural practices/events of a particular culture
- Identify patterns of racial and ethnic adaptation
- Analyze the global expansion of racism
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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PSY 6509 Psychology of Marriage and Family Systems | 3 Credits
This course covers assessment, diagnosis, and intervention strategies for individuals, couples, families, and children according to the systemic application of psychodynamic, humanistic, communication, experiential, and integrative models. This course examines couple and family relationship system and focuses on communication, structural, emotional and behavioral patterns and assessment of normal and dysfunctional patterns.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Analyze couples using the Intersystem Model
- Develop treatment plans and strategies based upon a thorough assessment of the client system
- Create appropriate change strategies to address individuals, families and couples
- Analyze the individual therapist’s strengths and limitations in dealing with the Client System
- Evaluate level of resistance in Client Systems
- Examine diverse techniques to develop rapport and overcome resistance in client systems
- Create boundaries and realign structures in couples and families
- Evaluate level of emotional intensity and create the appropriate level for dynamic therapeutic environment
- Develop sensitivity to process issues and utilize cognitions and emotions creatively in the therapeutic setting
- Discriminate between approaches for treating highly reactive and narcissistically wounded couples
- Integrate and apply systems techniques of reframing, embracing intimacy & conflict resolution
- Evaluate ethical and counter transference issues in treating the extramarital affair
- Analyze current trends in marital and family therapy
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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MFT 6510 Child & Adolescent Psychology | 3 Credits
This course introduces the application of counseling principles and a variety of counseling methods related to the treatment of children and adolescents. Learners will be taught to explore the theories and psychology of individuals from infancy through puberty including parent/child attachments, sex-role development, socialization and achievement motivation.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Compare and contrast adult and child therapy
- Explain current child therapeutic modalities
- Analyze the heuristic process
- Apply child and adolescent therapeutic concepts to a case example
- Integrate therapeutic models in the treatment of children
- Apply assessment techniques to a case example
- Analyze therapeutic techniques for children and adolescents
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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PSY 6532 Family Systems Theory | 3 Credits
This course explores the history and development of family therapy. The focus of study provides an overview of the evolving viewpoints, perspectives, values, intervention techniques and goals of family therapy and includes clinical and research developments. The course content is to intended to create a personal awareness and learning experience for the Learners that encourages the development of the qualities of sensitivity, flexibility, insight and compassion.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Analyze a problem utilizing family systems
- Compare and contrast family therapy models
- Analyze a fictitious or real family system according to a chosen model
- Identify gender and cultural issues in family therapy
- Differentiate between theories of family therapy and apply one to a family experience
- Assess family dynamics by watching and critically evaluating a TV show or movie
- Summarize professional issues related to the practice of Family Therapists
- Analyze the dynamics of various ethnic groups
- Apply cognitive-behavioral models to family systems
- Apply psychoeducational models to a family experience
- Integrate concepts of the structural approach to a family experience
- Assess aspects of family therapy research
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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PSY 6511 Alcoholism/Chemical Dependency | 3 Credits
This course reviews the current theories of the etiology of substance abuse, medical and legal aspects, personality factors, physiological and psychological effects of alcoholism and chemical dependency and explores the treatment methods and strategies from an individual and family systems perspective. Community resources, the referral process, and recognition of populations at risk are covered.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Examine the definitions of substance use, abuse and dependence
- Illustrate an understanding of the interrelationship of addiction and codependency
- Analyze and interpret current theories of the etiology of the chemical addictions and process addictions
- Describe the physiological, psychological and societal effects of substance abuse
- Create an intervention and treatment plan
- Formulate and defend opinions about various controversial issues in the field of addiction
- Integrate application of theory to various cases
- Evaluate various treatment options
- Analyze and critique relevant professional journal articles
- Integrate current research on assessment, diagnosis and treatment to case management
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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PSY 6512 Group Psychology | 3 Credits
This course focuses on the basic issues and key concepts of group processes and the application of these concepts in a variety of group settings. The focus of study encourages the development of those personal qualities that are intimately related to the counseling situation such as integrity, sensitivity, flexibility, insight, compassion and personal presence. Attendance at a group or leadership of a group is required to provide experiential learning of group therapy and counseling principles as well.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Explain your theoretical orientation applied to group practice
- Compare and contrast the issues related to group leadership
- Identify and distinguish between the different types of groups
- Evaluate the ethical and professional aspects of group leadership
- Describe the group process issues for each phase in the evolution of a group
- Examine the task of a group leader including techniques, problem group members and transference issues
- Create a critique of the group process from the perspective of participant and/or leader
- Integrate course concepts in a proposal for a group you wish to lead
- Analyze how group leaders can effectively work with issues of cultural diversity in a group
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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MFT 6513 Psychological Tests and Measurements | 2 Credits
This course examines the nature and use of psychological tests and the methodologies to assess intelligence, personality, and mental and behavioral disorders. The focus of study surveys widely used tests and how tests are constructed, administered and scored. The focus is on understanding test results and using them as part of the therapy process. Liaison with other professionals and ethical behavior related to testing is also addressed.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Analyze and interpret psychosocial assessments
- Analyze relevant statistical concepts, reliability, validity, and item analysis
- Assess the ethical issues involved in testing
- Examine intelligence tests
- Analyze projective tests
- Evaluate test validity and reliability
- Prepare and analyze a mental status exam
- Synthesize learning into a comprehensive assessment report
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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MFT 6528 Psychology of Violence | 2 Credits
The course focuses on the effects of violent behavior in marriage and family life including domestic violence/spousal abuse, child abuse, manipulation, and coercion. In this course, Learners will become aware of the causes of violence, the impact on victims of violence, and programmatic attempt to reduce violence. Learners will explore current research regarding violence and learn prevention and treatment strategies to use in both professional and personal settings. Learners are also taught assessment and reporting of child and elder abuse.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Compare and contrast the major theories of the etiology of violence
- Identify and describe the various treatment strategies
- Describe the treatment and prevention strategies and summarize how these might be implemented in various settings with various types of offenders
- Compare and contrast domestic violence reporting strategies
- Create a theoretical orientation to the concept of violence
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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MFT 6700 Psychopharmacology | 2 Credits
This course introduces the learner to the neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and biologic actions of psychopharmacological agents. The focus of study will explore such concepts as the indications for prescribing the agents, the side effects which may occur, the effects of withdrawing therapy, and the clinical considerations for the psychologist in referring the patient for medication evaluation.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Summarize the psychopharmacological interventions currently used in mood disorders
- Explain the psychopharmacological interventions currently used for anxiety disorders
- Describe the process of diagnosing schizophrenia and its subtypes
- Compare and contrast the various impulse control disorders and current thought of psychopharmacalogical treatment
- Describe personality disorders & discuss the rationale for using psychopharmacological interventions
- Analyze the medications and medical conditions which simulate psychiatric disorders
- Explain the basic principles of diagnosis and treatment
- Integrate the biological basis of psychopathological disorders and psychopharmacology
- Describe the three clusters of personality disorders
- Summarize the issues implicit in treating the following special populations: Children, adolescents, the elderly, and women of childbearing age
- Compare and contrast the action of cyclic antidepressants
- Describe the antidepressant classes, prescribing techniques and side effects of the SSRI's
- Assess the specific biologic effects, clinical uses, food and drug interactions of the MAO inhibitors
- Analyze and summarize the clinical uses and biologic effects of lithium
- Analyze and discuss the actions of the benzodiazepines and their side effects
- Compare and contrast the actions, uses, indications and biologic effects and side effects of barbiturates
- Describe the history and clinical uses and techniques for prescribing antipsychotics
- Assess and describe the side effects of antipsychotic therapy
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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PSY 6517 Psychology of Aging | 3 Credits
This course explores the biological and psychological changes that occur within the adult over time (intra-individual changes) and the extent to which these changes occur at different rates among different individuals (inter-individual differences). The focus of study also includes special topics related to aging and long-term care.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Compare and contrast genetic, non-genetic and physiological theories of aging
- Explain the relationship between various physiological changes and their functional
- Summarize factors that may contribute to accelerated sensory decline as individuals age
- Describe age-related changes in cognitive functioning and creative performance
- Compare and contrast alternative stage theories of adulthood and personality development
- Describe gender-related changes in sexuality that occur with aging
- Differentiate between myths/stereotypes and scientific evidence re: job performance and aging
- Describe the relationship between aging, stress and coping ability
- Analyze the physical and socioemotional needs of the terminally ill
- Evaluate a senior citizen by an interview
- Analyze current research on a contemporary issue related to the elderly
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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MFT 6704 Practicum I | 3 Credits
This course provides the opportunity to gain experience with individual, couples, families or groups and directly apply the theory and techniques of psychotherapy in a supervised clinical setting approved by California Southern University. Learners are reminded that MFT licensure in California requires that a minimum of 150 hours be completed while in a practicum and prior to graduation.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Create and maintain an on-going counseling relationship
- Apply appropriate diagnostic and assessment procedures in counseling sessions
- Examine counseling techniques for adults, individuals, groups, or within a family system
- Identify the concepts of supervision and self-assessment
- Integrate a theoretical orientation in assessing cases
- Analyze appropriate record keeping in therapy
- Create a working relationship with staff and personnel, fellow clinicians, and supervisors
- Compare and contrast professional evaluations and feedback
- Describe and discuss professional and ethical behavior
- Analyze counseling experience through the use of a personal journal
- List and describe supervision hours
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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MFT 6705 Practicum II | 3 Credits
This course provides the opportunity to gain experience with individual, couples, families or groups and directly apply the theory and techniques of psychotherapy in a supervised clinical setting approved by California Southern University. Learners are reminded that MFT licensure in California requires that a minimum of 150 hours be completed while in a practicum and prior to graduation.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Create and maintain an on-going counseling relationship
- Apply appropriate diagnostic and assessment procedures in counseling sessions
- Examine counseling techniques for adults, individuals, groups, or within a family system
- Identify the concepts of supervision and self-assessment
- Integrate a theoretical orientation in assessing cases
- Analyze appropriate record keeping in therapy
- Create a working relationship with staff and personnel, fellow clinicians, and supervisors
- Describe and discuss professional and ethical behavior
- Analyze counseling experience through the use of a personal journal
- List and describe supervision hours
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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MFT 6900 Research Methods and Statistics | 3 Credits
This course examines tools used in the field of psychology in the process of organized inquiry. The focus of study covers the basic concepts in statistics and research. Experimental research designs and correlational research are highlighted within a social and ethical context. Statistical topics include levels of measurement, central tendency, dispersion, correlation, and the use of inferential statistics for hypothesis testing. Emphasis is given to helping Learners become knowledgeable consumers of research and to utilize statistics as a means of greater understanding and discovery of the principles of statistical hypothesis testing.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Examine the goals of scientific research
- Analyze ethical issues in regards to research
- Apply McQuires heuristics for developing research ideas
- Differentiate and analyze the different methodological approaches in conducting research
- Analyze the basic applications of statistical analysis in research
- Create a literature search utilizing internet resources of scholarly journals
- Compare and contrast the statistical hypothesis and research methodologies of a chosen topic in current research
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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| MFT Licensure Requirement |
MFT 6510.1 Child Abuse Reporting | 1 Credits
This course examines child abuse and elder abuse assessment and current reporting laws and responsibilities. The focus of study will examine the history of child maltreatment and explore services offered for abused and neglected children. Key concepts dependence, discipline and child labor, and changing sexual attitudes toward the incest taboo, sexual exploitation and treatment interventions will be addressed.
Learning Outcomes: - Introduce self and explain course expectations
- Synthesize course concepts through interaction and discussion with other Learners
- Analyze California child abuse reporting laws
- Interpret child abuse reporting laws
- Apply the child abuse reporting laws to vignette case presentations
- Create a child abuse report related to a fictitious case
- Integrate course concepts through the use of internet resources
- Apply the elder abuse reporting laws to vignette case presentations
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and incorporate emerging relevant technologies applicable to the field of psychology
- Analyze and evaluate information critically and effectively
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to information and information technology
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