Drug & Alcohol Counseling Curriculum

*Practicum in recommended but not required.

EXSC3205 Drugs and Society 3 cr.

This course exposes students to biopsychosocial models used to explain substance use, abuse, dependency, and addiction. Students gain an understanding of genetic, physiological, and neurobiological factors contributing to alcohol use and abuse, as well as familiarity with the impact of these behaviors on the individual, the family, and the community. Specific attention is given to the roles of gender, age, culture and religious training as they relate to pattern of use.

PSYC1001 Introduction to Psychology 3 cr.

An introduction to the basic concepts and fundamental principles of human behavior using the historical background of psychology as a foundation, and present theory and research as a tool to explore principles of learning, human development motivation, stress, personality, interpersonal skills and mental health.

PSYC2203 Understanding Diversity 3 cr.

In the United States, the rapidly changing demographics of the population have increased cultural diversity at all levels in all segments of society. The course will incorporate discussion of gender, socioeconomic status, religion, race, and ethnicity, as they affect various aspects of interpersonal interactions. Students will work “from the inside-out”, learning to recognize the impact of their own cultures on their existing world views, and then comparing their cultural assumptions to those of people from other groups with the goal of developing more positive relations across cultures. Prerequisite: PSYC1001 or SOCI1001

 PSYC3200 Psychology of Family 3 cr.

This course surveys psychological issues related to the family. Family is defined to include diverse forms. Current theory and research are applied to topics such as partner selection, roles and relationships, stress and coping, domestic violence, and addictions. Prerequisite: PSYC1001

PSYC3300 Addictions Counseling 3 cr.

This course is designed to provide students with a specific skill base for assessment and counseling of persons struggling with addictions.  Students will also be introduced to the theory and empirically validated treatment approaches specifically developed for the special populations of those who are dually diagnosed, in chronic pain, and are adolescents and their families.  Emphasis will be placed on developing competency in intake and assessment interviewing, behavioral treatment planning, and development of basic understanding of psychopharmacology as it applies to addiction counseling.  Prerequisites:  EXSC3205, PSYC3004, and PSYC3400 or PSYC3402 which may be taken concurrently and will require a waiver.