CNSL 679 - Counseling Children and Adolescents

Credit(s): 3
Prerequisite(s): For School Counseling majors: CNSL 618, CNSL 640, CNSL 643, CNSL 650, and CNSL 655.
This course focuses on prevention and intervention of mental health disorders of children and adolescents. It presents cognitive-behavioral, behavioral strategies, experiential play, solution focused, and strengths-based theories to use when counseling children and adolescents. This course focuses on the importance of the relationship between the counselor and the client or consultee, the flexible use of a variety of evidence-based interventions, both individual and group, to address problems experienced by individuals, and the importance of assessment. Various activities, in-class role-plays, and guidance will be incorporated throughout this course.

Class meetings include lecture and discussion on selected topics in the textbook. Films and class activities expand on the material. To maximize your learning, complete assignment readings prior to class. Further, students will be given the opportunity to observe and discuss various aspects of child and adolescent behavior as they are applied to practice. Students are expected to be actively involved in their learning and are invited to share their knowledge and personal experiences with the class.