This class has two main purposes: to study itself as a group and to learn about group psychotherapy facilitation. The first focus is on addressing increasing empathy and interpersonal sensitivity in a way that will help students develop their therapeutic skills in a group context. The second focus is on learning about different kinds of therapy groups and the different kinds of group facilitation skills necessary to lead such groups.
This course provides an overview of key concepts and methods in therapeutic communication, integrating psychodynamic, humanistic, and other approaches. Experiential portion includes role-play and simulations. Includes the experiential portion of Therapeutic Communication.
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Fall 2021
This class has two main purposes: to study itself as a group and to learn about group psychotherapy facilitation. The first focus is on addressing increasing empathy and interpersonal sensitivity in a way that will help students develop their therapeutic skills in a group context. The second focus is on learning about different kinds of therapy groups and the different kinds of group facilitation skills necessary to lead such groups.
The relationship between therapist and client is one of the central concerns of contemporary theories of therapeutic change. This course explores the relationship between therapist and client from the perspectives of contemporary psychoanalysis, humanism, and self-psychology. Provides various perspectives on transference and countertransference, and how to work with these dynamics in the clinical setting.
This course offers an introduction to theories and research in life transitions, stages of development, and rites of passage, from prenatal conditions to adult experience of dying. A variety of perspectives will be explored including neurodevelopmental, cognitive behavioral, attachment theory, relational psychodynamic, multicultural, and family systems approaches. The impact of community and school systems will also be considered. Particular emphasis will be placed on early stages of development through adolescence, identifying foundational aspects of identify formation and social emotional development that significantly impact adult psychological functioning and disturbance.
This course examines the history and foundations of psychodynamic ideas and concepts pertaining to psychopathology—"soul-suffering"—and how to heal it. The purpose of the class is to provide students with an introduction to the mysteries of Psyche, centering on the concept of the unconscious--the heart of psychodynamics. We use the work of Sigmund Freud ("Classical Psychoanalysis") and its successors--"Object Relations" theory, "Self Psychology" and "Relational/Intersubjective" approaches--to explore such fundamental issues as the nature of internal conflict, mechanisms of defense, symptom formation, dreams, and the structure and development of the psyche.
We also address the key psychodynamic treatment concepts of neutrality, free association, transference/counter-transference, and resistance. Finally, we look at some more contemporary evolutions of these foundational models and where they are leading. Throughout, students will be encouraged to think critically about the relevance of these various psychodynamic perspectives to present-day social, cultural and spiritual concerns. Are these models racially or ethnically biased or culture-bound? Elitist? Patriarchal? Can they be used constructively in psychodynamic psychotherapy? How are they consistent—or not--with transpersonal values?
Spring 2022
This course examines the history and foundations of psychodynamic ideas and concepts pertaining to psychopathology—"soul-suffering"—and how to heal it. The purpose of the class is to provide students with an introduction to the mysteries of Psyche, centering on the concept of the unconscious--the heart of psychodynamics. We use the work of Sigmund Freud ("Classical Psychoanalysis") and its successors--"Object Relations" theory, "Self Psychology" and "Relational/Intersubjective" approaches--to explore such fundamental issues as the nature of internal conflict, mechanisms of defense, symptom formation, dreams, and the structure and development of the psyche.
We also address the key psychodynamic treatment concepts of neutrality, free association, transference/counter-transference, and resistance. Finally, we look at some more contemporary evolutions of these foundational models and where they are leading. Throughout, students will be encouraged to think critically about the relevance of these various psychodynamic perspectives to present-day social, cultural and spiritual concerns. Are these models racially or ethnically biased or culture-bound? Elitist? Patriarchal? Can they be used constructively in psychodynamic psychotherapy? How are they consistent—or not--with transpersonal values?
The relationship between therapist and client is one of the central concerns of contemporary theories of therapeutic change. This course explores the relationship between therapist and client from the perspectives of relational psychotherapy, Jungian analysis, Gestalt, and self-psychology. It provides various perspectives on transference and countertransference, and how to work with these dynamics in the clinical setting.
This course explores the effects of culture, ethnicity, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation and socio-economic background on psychology and behavior. We will explore our own cultural backgrounds and experiences as a pathway to increase awareness and understanding of the role of culture in interrelatedness. We will examine cultural traits and values of various cultural groups in the United States, engage in an exploration of possible barriers to effective multicultural counseling and develop culturally appropriate intervention strategies. We will develop an understanding of how mechanisms of oppression and privilege impact power dynamics in various contexts, considering especially the psychotherapeutic context.
This course examines the development of a personal code of ethics and moral sensitivity along with the information of professional ethical standards and laws that regulate the practice of counseling and psychotherapy. This course intends the raising of awareness among mental health professionals of the ethical decision-making process in the helping/healing relationship that entitles the therapist-client relationship. It intends to turn on the interior alarm, which goes by the name of conscience.
Integral psychotherapy includes a spiritual perspective about ourselves, our clients, and the world that informs and supports our therapeutic work. Each of us has a particular understanding and experience of, and relationship to, what we consider to be spiritual. In this online and in-the-world course, students will further explore that relationship by creating a program of activity such as developing or deepening a spiritual practice, engaging in community service, or applying spiritual attitudes and principles in daily behavior. It will be somewhat akin to an independent study, but the support and learning around it will involve regular contact with the instructor and group. The reason this course is called Applied Spirituality is that it is about integrating spirituality into your experience of yourself and the world, and allowing your experience to impact your actions in the world – in other words, increasingly living what you know through your attitudes and actions.
Fall Intensive 2022
Gestalt Therapy will be presented as an adjunct to Existential Philosophy and Therapy, and as a natural reflection of Humanities Psychology. The elements of Gestalt therapy will be demonstrated—i.e., contact boundaries, awareness, figure formation, the Gestalt theory of neurosis, and disturbances at the boundaries. The primary emphasis will be on working in the "here and now" with a process-oriented focus.
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the skill and art of couple and marriage counseling. Students will gain a theoretical foundation, as well as a range of practical skills for beginning to work with couples from diverse backgrounds and experiences. We will explore topics such as differentiation, attachment, diagnosing a couple's stage of development, and issues of gender in couple and marital therapy. Students will be asked to explore how their cultural context and biases may shape their clinical work with couples.
Fall 2022
This course explores the various schools of family therapy, including the work of Whitaker, Satir, Bowen, and Minuchin, as well as strategic, narrative, internal family systems, and core focused family therapy. There will be a strong experiential component involving in-depth study of each student's family of origin through psychodramatic or monodramatic formats or sculpture, as well as through live demonstrations of therapy sessions with students' family members.
This course explores comparative historical and contemporary views of the development of adult psychopathology and the categorization system of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual.
Assuming that "Trauma is in the nervous system and not in the event," this course will introduce students to the basic neuropsychology and treatment of trauma. The work of Bessel Van der Kolk, Judith Herman, Daniel Goleman, Peter Levine, Jim Kepner, and others will be summarized. Principles and methodology for treating trauma from a somato-emotional framework, based on understanding of the triune brain and ANS functioning, will be emphasized.
Spring 2023
This course is designed to provide an overview of couples counseling based on the research by UCLA psychologists Lisa Benson, Meghan McGinn, and Andrew Christensen and their review of over 40 years of research on couples therapy (Benson et al., 2012) Students will be introduced to the history of couples counseling, current theoretical approaches and issues specific to couples therapy, as well as how to work with couples from diverse backgrounds and diverse experiences. Students will also learn the basics of couple therapy by experiential exercises, session analysis and skills practice. Students will be asked to explore how their own backgrounds, experiences and biases may impact their therapeutic work with couples.
This course provides an overview of theories and approaches in child therapy. Study and practice of various approaches to child therapy will serve as a foundation for experiential learning through conducting and observing role plays. The history of child therapy will be discussed, as well as contemporary social, cultural, economic and spiritual factors that impact the well-being of children.
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This course provides an introduction and overview of a particular type of psychotherapy – cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This is not a practicum in CBT – you'll get practical experience for this type of therapy later in your training. We'll briefly review the foundations, history, theory, and efficacy of cognitive approaches to therapy, but spend most of our time gaining a broad overview of the application of CBT. Using a case-based approach, our emphasis is on practical application: What are the indications and contraindications of CBT? How do I assess patients for possible treatment with CBT? How do I provide informed consent and educate my client about CBT? What are possible unwanted effects of CBT? What therapeutic techniques does CBT provide? How do I collect and organize information from clients? How do I structure therapy sessions and work with client homework? How can I better communicate and collaborate with other mental health professionals? We'll explore related historical, social, ethnic and cultural factors, and look at how therapists can work effectively with family members, physicians, and other members of the collaborative mental health care team.
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Students may select the 1 unit general elective from any CIIS graduate program and take it anytime during the 3-year program. The course may be taken onsite or online and must be relevant to the Integral Counseling Psychology degree.
Fall 2023
An overview of the psycho-spiritual framework of transpersonal psychology and a critical analysis of the major theorists in the field. The course explores different transpersonal approaches including integral psychology, Jung, mindfulness-based therapies, shamanic and altered state work and raises some of the major issues and dilemmas inherent in a transpersonal approach.
This course provides an overview of research methodologies, with special focus on qualitative approaches, comparative ways of knowing, and the creation of an integral inquiry research project. The course will also Include research in the creative and expressive arts therapies.
Hands-on clinical training and the opportunity to apply theory in direct contact with clients. Practicum prepares students for post-degree internships.
Spring 2024
This course provides an opportunity for students to reflect on and deepen their understanding of their process of personal and academic integration in the ICP program. Each student will articulate her or his own unique vision of integral psychotherapy in theory and practice. Students will share their essential personal narratives and explore key lessons learned in the ICP program (key classes, internship, peer and faculty interactions, etc.). The personal significance of these lessons will be explored to arrive at a creative integration of reflected knowing and personal history, ICP lessons and life experience. In addition to overall reflection on one's process of integration, students will have an opportunity to evaluate their key clinical skills including empathy, reflection, diagnosis and assessment, integration of various clinical modalities, legal and ethical issues, transpersonal awareness and a deeper understanding of multi-cultural issues in psychotherapy and working with special populations. Finally, the course will help make the transition from being students in the program to MA graduates in the professional world.
The course examines the nature and impact of chemical dependency and substance misuse from the perspectives of the individual, family, social systems, and behavioral health and medical communities who provide support for and access to recovery. The course offers a comprehensive overview of the bio-psycho-social-spiritual dimensions of dependency through didactic and experiential exercises. The neurobiology of addiction is explained and various assessment and treatment interventions are taught, with particular attention to motivational interviewing and harm reduction. Diversity's role in the diagnosis and treatment of chemical dependency is discussed, along with a survey of treatment communities. A review of common co-occurring conditions is provided with attention to the implications of trauma and cultural cosmology in chemical dependency and substance use.
Hands-on clinical training and the opportunity to apply theory in direct contact with clients. Practicum prepares students for post-degree internships.
Summer 2024
Hands-on clinical training and the opportunity to apply theory in direct contact with clients. Practicum prepares students for post-degree internships.
