Master of Arts - Counseling - School Counseling: Pupil Personnel Services (P.P.S.)

Program Description

An orientation to professional counseling focusing on standards of practice, major counseling theories, and essential concepts in the practice of counseling including attention to concepts of resilience and recovery-based models. Advocacy, systems of care, services, support for the severely mentally ill, and collaborative treatment are addressed in both counseling and case management. Mental health principles, the history and philosophy of counseling, consultation, self-care, cultural competence, roles of professional organizations and governing bodies, and ethical standards of the discipline are presented. This course also includes focus on 1 unit of special topics toward the CA LPCC license.

Special characteristics of the program include the following:

• Early observation of and involvement in actual counseling settings.
• Development of a core of knowledge and experience in both individual and group counseling theory and practice.
• Encouragement in the development and maintenance of individual counseling styles.
• Commitment to self-exploration and personal growth through participation in peer counseling, individual counseling, and group experiences. This aspect of the program is seen as crucial to the development of adequate counseling skills and is given special consideration by the faculty as part of its evaluation of student readiness to undertake internship responsibilities.
• Strong emphasis on acknowledging and appreciating diversity.