Curriculum for the MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Online)

Session 1

Term A

• Introduction to Counseling
• Multicultural Counseling

Term B

• Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues in Counseling
• Counseling Theories and Techniques

Session 2

Term A

• Research and Program Evaluation in Counseling
• Career Counseling

Term B

• Group Counseling

Session 3

Term A

• Human Growth and Development
• Addiction Counseling

Term B

• Assessment and Diagnostic Processes
• Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology

Session 4

Term A

• Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Term B

• Case Conceptualization and Treatment Planning

Term A and Term B

• Practicum

Session 5

Term A

• Trauma and Crisis Counseling

Term B

• Relational Counseling

Term A and Term B

• Internship 1

Session 6

Term A

• Elective 1

Term B

• Elective 2

Term A and Term B

• Internship 2

Course Descriptions

Introduction to Counseling and Counseling Skills
Course code: CMHC 501
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course provides students with an orientation to the counseling profession and teaches basic skills for counseling clients. The course begins with studies of the profession of counseling, including an overview of the history of counseling, professional counseling organizations and issues, major counseling specialties, requirements for counselor license and certification, multicultural considerations, and ethical and legal issues in counseling. The course includes a laboratory component in which students learn the stages of the counseling process and the skills and techniques of counseling.

Research and Program Evaluation in Counseling
Course code: CMHC 515
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course examines the organization, analysis, summarization, and interpretation of counseling data with special emphasis on developing research projects involving counseling data. The interrelationships among statistics, measurement, and research design are examined. Training in reading and interpreting counseling research literature is provided. The course will review ethical and legal considerations in research, the use of technology for data collection and analysis, research designs, needs assessment, and program evaluation.

Human Growth and Development
Course code: CMHC 520
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course examines the nature, needs and psychological, social and emotional developmental processes through diverse theoretical frameworks in counseling, addressing individual and family development, cultural identity, theories of learning, personality, psychological development, addiction, relationship dynamics, resilience, sexuality, wellness, and psychosocial adjustment to illness and disability. Students examine biological, neurological, and environmental factors influencing lifespan development, alongside the impact of mental and physical health conditions, crises, and trauma. Emphasizing practical application, the course equips students with culturally responsive and developmentally informed counseling skills to promote resilience, well-being, and growth across diverse populations along the lifespan.

Multicultural Counseling
Course code: CMHC 530
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course provides students with an introduction to multicultural counseling which includes examining power and privilege to increase student awareness and understanding of, as well as their ability to competently counsel, individuals evidencing diversity in culture, race and ethnicity, family, nationality, language, age, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic class, religion and spirituality, urban and rural societies, and mental and physical abilities.

Career Counseling
Course code: CMHC 535
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course explores approaches for conceptualizing the interrelationships among and between work, career, socioeconomic standing, wellness, disability, trauma, relationships, and other life roles. Traditional and contemporary theories and models of career development, career counseling, and decision-making will be introduced. The course presents strategies for assessing abilities, interests, values, personality, and other factors that contribute to career development, as well as examines career development program planning and evaluation. Ethical and legal issues, contemporary trends, and application of career counseling models to a variety of populations are explored, and strategies for improving access to educational and occupational opportunities for people from marginalized groups are discussed. Students will become familiar with labor market information resources, including computer-based information systems.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Course code: CMHC 545
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course examines the fundamentals of clinical mental health counseling, including the nature of the clientele and the concerns they bring to counseling, counselor roles, identification of effective treatment modes, consultation, integrated care, client advocacy, and collaborative work among the helping professionals. Students will engage in using the Diagnostic Statistical Manual (DSM) and International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and developing treatment plans. The course will review assessment procedures that are useful in clinical mental health counseling settings. Students will explore the counselor’s role in advocating for systemic change, promoting social justice, and addressing issues of inequality and oppression within communities.

Addiction Counseling: Individual, Family, and Society
Course code: CMHC 551
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of substance use and addiction, including process addictions and their effects on individuals, families, and society. Students will delve into the neurobiological foundations of addiction while examining assessment techniques, evidence-based interventions, and societal implications. Special attention is given to analyzing drug policy, implementing harm reduction strategies, and embracing multiple pathways to recovery. The course also emphasizes understanding family dynamics, cultural influences, and best practice strategies to effectively address substance use across the six advocacy domains.

Counseling Prevention Principles and Practice
Course code: CMHC 552
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course explores the foundational theories and strategies of prevention in clinical mental health counseling. Students will examine evidence-based models and interventions designed to promote mental wellness, prevent the onset of mental health disorders, and reduce risk factors across diverse populations. The course emphasizes a proactive, strengths-based approach to mental health care, focusing on community-based, culturally responsive prevention efforts. Students will develop practical skills in designing, implementing, and evaluating prevention programs while understanding the ethical and professional considerations of preventative practices in clinical settings.

Counseling Co-Occurring Disorders
Course code: CMHC 553
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course focuses on the integrated care approach and provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in treating individuals with co-occurring mental health and medical, behavioral, process, or substance use addiction-related disorders. It emphasizes the integration of evidence-based counseling techniques and approaches tailored to address the unique needs of clients facing such dual diagnoses. Students will explore the biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to co-occurring disorders while developing essential skills in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. Through this integrated framework, students will gain essential skills in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning to support comprehensive, effective care in diverse clinical environments.

Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology
Course code: CMHC 555
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course explores mental health disorders and their pharmacological treatments, integrating DSM and ICD criteria. Students delve into diagnostic criteria, symptomatology, and psychopathology, examining systemic injustices’ impact on mental health disparities. Additionally, it covers psychopharmacology principles, including medication mechanisms, side effects, and interactions. Emphasizing integrated care, students analyze case studies and research, preparing to collaborate with healthcare professionals and provide holistic care.

Mindfulness and Wellness in Counseling
Course code: CMHC 565
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

The foundation of the counseling profession is based on wellness, positive growth, and development. This course will bring us back to our roots through an exploration of the theory, research, and application of wellness approaches in counseling. Central to wellness is the ability to pay attention to the present moment. In this course, students will also learn about and experience mindfulness-based practices, which are considered to be the third wave of therapy. We will explore various mindfulness techniques, the latest research on mindfulness, wellness, and mindfulness applications for diverse populations, and the roots of mindfulness in Buddhist psychology. Mindfulness meditation will be practiced throughout the duration of the course. Interventions to enhance wellness will be explored.

Trauma and Crisis Counseling
Course code: CMHC 575
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course examines the latest theories, interventions, and best practices for supporting individuals and communities in times of crisis. Through interactive coursework, case studies, and practical experiences, students gain the skills and knowledge needed to effectively assess, intervene, and provide compassionate care to those impacted by trauma. Students will study the science of trauma and how it affects the mind and body, and examine dynamic and disruptive life events and the effects these events have on individuals and other human systems (families, neighborhoods, schools/colleges/universities, clubs, teams, and organizations). The course will delve into anticipated and sudden losses including accidents, illnesses, domestic violence, school violence, homicide and suicide, as well as oppression and intergenerational trauma.

Counseling the Aged
Course code: CMHC 580
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course examines demographic characteristics, developmental transitions, psychosocial theories, life crises, and referral resources unique to older adulthood. The course acknowledges the diverse experiences and backgrounds of older adults while addressing societal barriers such as ageism, socioeconomic disparities, and access to healthcare. Through compassionate dialogue and evidence-based practices, students learn to honor the resilience and wisdom of aging populations, empowering them to provide culturally responsive and equitable counseling support to older adults navigating life transitions and challenges. Students will examine counseling strategies and program-planning skills specific to the needs of the aged and the practice of gerontological counseling.

Relational Counseling
Course code: CMHC 600
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course examines the theoretical concepts of the major models of relational counseling with an emphasis on assessment and intervention strategies to facilitate meaningful change in clients’ lives across diverse relational landscapes. This includes strategies essential for fostering therapeutic relationships across a spectrum of human connections within counseling contexts. Students will learn assessment techniques consistent with the major relational counseling models. Students will explore treatment planning, goal setting, development of interventions, facilitation of change, termination, and therapist use of self in relation to each phase of the relational counseling process. The course will examine the effects of multicultural issues on relationships and the changing socio-political climate.

Gender and Human Sexuality
Course code: CMHC 601
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of gender and sexuality within the context of clinical mental health counseling. Through an inclusive and intersectional lens, students will examine the diverse experiences, identities, and expressions of gender and sexuality across various cultural, social, and developmental contexts. Key topics include theories of gender and sexual identity development, the impact of societal norms and stereotypes, LGBTQ+ affirmative counseling practices, addressing gender dysphoria and sexual health concerns, and advocating for gender and sexual diverse populations. Through case studies, experiential activities, and critical discussions, students will develop the knowledge, skills, and disposition necessary to provide affirming and culturally competent counseling services to clients of all gender identities and sexual orientations.

Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues in Counseling
Course code: CMHC 605
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course delves into ethical principles, legal regulations, sources and types of law, professional liability, confidentiality and privileged information, as well as risk management, professional standards and ethics, and the integration of modern technology in counseling. Covering confidentiality, liability, and ethical decision-making, it prepares students to navigate complex challenges, such as practice marketing. Topics include professional identification, licensure, and the integration of technology, addressing teletherapy and digital record-keeping. Through case studies and critical discussions, students explore ethical dilemmas within diverse counseling contexts, fostering culturally responsive practice. Students will gain skills to uphold legal standards and provide effective counseling services to diverse populations.

Assessment and Diagnostic Processes
Course code: CMHC 643
Prerequisite: Permission of department

This course examines the nature and meaning of testing and assessment in counseling, covering historical perspectives and standardized/non-standardized testing. Learn statistical concepts for assessment interpretation, reliability, and validity, ensuring ethical and legal compliance. Explore culturally sustaining assessment practices, encompassing accommodations and modifications. Develop skills utilizing assessments for diagnostic, intervention, and referral across various domains. Discover diverse assessment tools, including structured interviews and personality testing, focusing on diagnostic processes, substance use, risk assessment, trauma evaluation, and signs of abuse. Differentiate uses of counseling, educational, intellectual, personality, and neuropsychological assessments. Identify client characteristics and utilize assessment results for referral and consultation.

Case Conceptualization and Treatment Planning
Course code: CMHC 645
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course equips students with advanced skills in case conceptualization and treatment planning. Through theoretical frameworks and practical applications, students learn to assess and diagnose diverse client populations, integrating evidence-based interventions and culturally competent approaches. The emphasis is placed on developing comprehensive treatment plans that align with ethical guidelines and legal standards. Students engage in case studies, role-plays, and collaborative discussions to refine their clinical decision-making and intervention strategies. By the end of the course, students demonstrate proficiency in formulating holistic, client-centered treatment plans that address complex mental health concerns, foster therapeutic outcomes, and promote client well-being.

Counseling Children and Adolescents
Course code: CMHC 661
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course examines specialized techniques and theories crucial for counseling children and adolescents, including social and systemic inequalities and their impact on young individuals. Students will engage in dynamic learning experiences, such as interactive role-plays and case studies, and examine various modalities including art, play, music, drama, and dance/movement therapy. Through these lenses, students develop the skills to foster self-expression, emotional regulation, and effective communication, empowering them to ethically and proficiently support the well-being of young individuals.

Counseling Theories and Techniques
Course code: CMHC 670
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course provides an overview of the major theories of counseling and their related techniques. In addition to traditional counseling theories, students will examine a variety of approaches to counseling, including intersectionality theory, minority stress, multicultural social justice counseling, and queer theory. Emphasizing practical application, students develop essential counseling skills through role-plays, case studies, and supervised practice, honing their ability to establish therapeutic rapport, conduct assessments, and implement evidence-based interventions. By integrating theory with hands-on experience, this course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for competent and culturally responsive counseling practice.

Advanced Counseling Theories and Techniques
Course code: CMHC 672
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course will provide an advanced study of counseling theories with particular emphasis on theory application. In this course, we explore culturally centered counseling theories that have emerged to address the diverse needs of clients from various backgrounds. We delve deeper into newer approaches such as intersectionality theory, which emphasizes understanding clients’ intersecting identities and thus promotes inclusivity and affirmation of diverse racial, relational, sexual and gender identities. By integrating these innovative theories into our curriculum, we equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for culturally responsive counseling practice in today’s diverse world. Students will demonstrate their counseling effectiveness within the definitions of selected theories. This course will involve both didactic and experiential components.

Group Counseling
Course code: CMHC 675
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3

This course provides an introduction to group counseling and process. Students will explore the nature and function of various types of groups; basic principles of group dynamics; group counseling techniques; ethical, legal and professional issues; leadership and group development; member roles and functions; theoretical approaches to group counseling; how to design and lead groups across the human lifespan; and the nature and impact of their own interpersonal styles of behavior on their roles as both group members and group leaders.

Practicum in Counseling
Course code: CMHC 690
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 3 This course provides a supervised clinical experience of a minimum of 100 hours. Students must complete a minimum 40 hours of direct client care and at least 60 hours of indirect administration (treatment planning, assessment, training, or other administrative activities). Students will be required to engage in one (1) hour of synchronous individual or triadic supervision at their practicum site and a minimum of 1.5 hours each week of synchronous group supervision with their assigned TCNJ supervisor. The college will approve and supervise the practicum placement. Students must maintain liability insurance throughout practicum.

Internship 1
Course codes: CMHC 694
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 6

This course provides a supervised clinical experience of a minimum of 300 hours. Students must complete a minimum 120 hours of direct client care and 180 hours of indirect administration (treatment planning, assessment, training, or other administrative activities). Students will be required to engage in one (1) of synchronous individual or triadic supervision at their practicum site and a minimum of 1.5 hours each week of synchronous group supervision with their assigned university supervisor. Students must maintain liability insurance throughout the internship.

Internship 2
Course codes: CMHC 695
Prerequisite: Permission of department
Credits: 6

This course provides a supervised clinical experience of a minimum of 300 hours. Students must complete a minimum 120 hours of direct client care and at least 180 hours of indirect administration (treatment planning, assessment, training, or other administrative activities). Students will be required to engage in one (1) of synchronous individual or triadic supervision at their practicum site and a minimum of 1.5 hours each week of synchronous group supervision with their assigned university supervisor. Students must maintain liability insurance throughout the internship experience.