COUN 502 - Principles and Philosophy of Counseling

3 Credits

This course is intended to introduce the student to the profession of counseling. This introduction will include some exploration of the history of the profession, its relationship with other helping professions, the different settings in which it is performed, and the varied populations, which it serves. As this course is the foundation for any subsequent coursework in any counseling program, the primary focus of the course will be on the specific work of the counselor. Included will be exploration of the counselor’s role and responsibilities, counseling models and modalities, counselor characteristics associated with counseling efficacy, and counseling techniques. There will be a significant emphasis on student self-examination and self-assessment, and experiential activities will comprise a large portion of in-class and out-ofclass work.