Focus on the People and Issues that Inspire You Most

Counsel Pre-K-12 students, active military soldiers and veterans, people struggling with substance abuse or families who need help. Use your expertise to promote wellness and assist people with mental health, behavioral, educational, or substance-related concerns. Apply your skills to guide and support individuals across the lifespan in a variety of settings.

The Nova Southeastern University M.S. Counseling curriculum spans 33 semester hours of graduate credit, in addition to your chosen concentration. The curriculum provides you with both a comprehensive foundation – and your choice of five specialized paths, so you can truly make this educational journey your own. 

It’s designed to prepare you to:

  • Counsel those with stress management, self-esteem, aging, job and career concerns, educational decisions, mental, emotional and relational issues, trauma, family, parenting, and marital problems.
  • Empower diverse individuals, groups, and families to strive toward their mental health, recovery, wellness, relationship, educational, or career goals.
  • Confidently collaborate with treatment teams including psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, psychiatric nurses, medical professionals, school counselors and other mental health professionals. 

See required courses and descriptions below. Please note the curriculum is subject to change.

M.S. in Counseling Courses

CACREP accredited curriculum, 60 credit hours (20 courses), three semesters of clinical field experience, and the successful completion of the Comprehensive Final Examination. Click HERE for the CACREP FAQ's.

Program Formats: 

  • Face-to-Face at the Fort Lauderdale/Davie Campus (Winter, Summer, and Fall start terms)
  • Hybrid - offered at Miami, Orlando, and Tampa Bay Regional Campuses (Fall start term only)
  • Online (with a Residential Institute) (Winter, Summer, and Fall start terms)

 

COURSES

PYCL 0502 - Counseling Theories and Practice (3 credits)

This course provides a foundation and overview of the fields of psychotherapy and counseling. It reviews the various theories and techniques of counseling that are consistent with current professional research and practice in the fields of clinical mental health counseling. Additional topics include professional roles and functions, credentialing, and general ethics in clinical mental health.

PYCL 0507 - Research and Evaluation for Counselors (3 credits)

This course seeks to prepare mental health and school counselors to be informed consumers of research and evaluation. It covers basic statistics, research designs, and program evaluation within the counseling and educational fields. It provides experience in developing accountability measures and in reading research and evaluating reports applicable to multicultural populations.

PYCL 0512 - Human Growth and Development (3 credits)

This course covers how developmental maturation and social learning impacts individuals across the lifespan. Theory and research in social development and learning are covered in topics for mental health and school counselors.

PYCL 0570 - Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues for Counselors (3 credits)

This course covers standards for ethical, legal, and professional conduct in counseling. It considers ethical and legal decisions that mental health counselors must make. Case examples, current federal and state laws/statutes, ethical codes, and standards on assessment, diagnosis, practice, and placement data are discussed in relation to counseling a variety of populations in multiple settings. Prerequisite: PYCL 0502.

PYCL 0584 - Diagnosis and Treatment of Adult Psychopathology (3 credits)

This course provides an introduction to the definition and study of abnormal or maladaptive behavior, including a broad range of psychopathology relevant to the adult and aged populations. Emphasis will be placed on a descriptive review of the major DSM-IV disorders, supplemented with theoretical considerations of etiology and treatment approaches including the use of psychopharmacological interventions.

PYCL 0608 - Psychological Testing for Individual Evaluation (3 credits)

This course surveys frequently used tests of aptitude, interest, and personality. Test content, purpose, psychometric properties, administration, and scoring procedures are compared and evaluated. Issues of test use with culturally diverse populations are addressed. Prerequisite: PYCL 0507.

PYCL 0612 - Substance Abuse (3 credits)

This course investigates the etiology of substance-related and addictive disorders. Attention is given to assessment and treatment in both individual and family therapy approaches. The course examines the role of co-occurring disorders in diagnosis and treatment planning and the role of the professional counselor in working with this population. Prerequisites: PYCL 0502; PYCL 0511.

PYCL 0631 - Career and Lifestyle Assessment (3 credits)

This course surveys the major theories of career choice, planning, and development as well as standardized methods of assessing vocational interests and aptitudes. Social, psychological, and economic factors influencing career choice are examined. Emphasis will be placed on individual and group career counseling skills across diverse populations.

PYCL 0632 - Social and Cultural Foundations of Counseling (3 credits)

This course addresses cultural diversity and its implications for counseling. It considers the psychological impact of factors such as gender, race, ethnicity and culture, religious preference, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and physical disability in a variety of counseling and educational settings. Finally, it reviews counseling issues and strategies for counseling diverse clients.

PYCL 0635 - Group Theory and Practice (3 credits)

This course addresses group theory and practice in multiple settings with a variety of diverse populations and age groups. Major themes include group dynamics, group process, and group states for mental health and school counselors. Prerequisites: for clinical mental health counselors: PYCL 0502; PYCL 0511; for school counselors: PYCL 0503; PYCL 0511.

PYCL 0645 - Couples and Family Counseling Strategies (3 credits)

This skills course surveys current approaches to couples and family counseling with an emphasis on a systemic conceptual model of family functioning and culturally sensitive therapeutic interventions. It is designed to develop specific intervention competencies. Prerequisites: PYCL 0502; PYCL 0511; PYCL 0584 or consent of adviser.

PYCL 0511 - Introduction to Mental Health Counseling Techniques (3 credits)

This course is an overview of basic counseling skills. The major focus will be on the development of fundamental counseling skills, including listening, empathy training, and basic interviewing. Issues regarding the development of the therapeutic relationship, cultural diversity, and the impact of the counselor on the counseling process will be covered. Prerequisite: PYCL 0502.

PYCL 0582 - Human Sexuality (3 credits)

This course is an overview of the basics of sexual anatomy, physiology, and development. The student will acquire an understanding of human sexual response, concepts of sex therapies, and human sexual dysfunction. Also included are methods of contraception, sex and family planning, variations of sexual behavior, and the importance of the counselor in the role of the educator.

PYCL 0586 - Diagnosis and Treatment of Child and Adolescent Psychopathology (3 credits)

This course provides an introduction to the specific DSM-5 disorders and problematic psychological states manifested during childhood and adolescence. It will also provide an overview of currently used behavioral and psychopharmacological interventions with psychologically troubled youth.

PYCL 0660 - Community Mental Health (3 credits)

Principles, theories, and practices of community needs assessment and community interventions are reviewed with a focus on the history, events, and attitudes that led to the development of community mental health delivery systems. This course surveys the design and utilization of public and private programs, networks and facilities within the mental health continuum of care, as well as the interplay of public and private funding and service utilization. This course acquaints students with the various approaches (prevention, consultation) and techniques (needs assessment, program evaluation) used by counselors in community settings across diverse populations.

PYCL 0666 - Case Conceptualization and Treatment Strategies (3 credits)

This course focuses on the processes of conceptualizing clinical cases from a variety of theoretical orientations and translating them into effective treatment strategies. Clinical interviews, case studies, and role plays will be utilized to assist students in formulating hypotheses about client difficulties and developing appropriate clinical interventions, which address those difficulties in a culturally sensitive manner. Prerequisites: PYCL 0502; PYCL 0511; PYCL 0584 or consent of adviser.

PYCL 0669 - Advanced Treatment Interventions (3 credits)

This course will present advanced training in counseling approaches and techniques. Students will learn more about an integrative approach to counseling to further the development of their own personal counseling model. Students will integrate their knowledge of case conceptualization, treatment planning, and diagnosis with the practice of counseling techniques. Presentations, recorded role plays, and case studies will be utilized. Prerequisites: PYCL 0502; PYCL 0511; PYCL 0584; PYCL 0666.

PYCL 0680 - Counseling Practicum (3 credits)

The student is required to spend a specified number of hours per week at a selected agency working under supervision with clients. During that time, the student is expected to increase his or her competence in the areas of basic interviewing, assessment, and counseling skills. Furthermore, the student will be made more aware of the ethical, legal, and professional issues inherent in the counseling process. Prerequisites: PYCL 0502; PYCL 0507; PYCL 0511; PYCL 0570; PYCL 0584; PYCL 0586; PYCL 0635; PYCL 0666 with a grade of B minus or better. The student must file an application for practicum and receive approval prior to registering for a practicum.

PYCL 0681 - Counseling Internship I (3 credits)

This course is an extension of Counseling Practicum. The student will be expected to develop more advanced skills in interviewing, assessment, and intervention. Simultaneously, continued emphasis will be placed upon ethical, legal, and professional issues, as well as development of a personal theory of clinical mental health counseling. Prerequisite: PYCL 0680 with a grade of B minus or better.

PYCL 0682 - Continuing Counseling Internship (3 credits)

This course is a continuation of Counseling Internship. Prerequisite: PYCL 0681 with a grade of B minus or better.

Program Format: 

Accreditation Information:

CAEP

In May 2022, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) granted Nova Southeastern University’s Fischler College of Education & School of Criminal Justice Accreditation at the advanced-level. Counseling (M.S.): School Counseling Concentration was included in this accreditation. This accreditation status is effective from Spring 2022 through Spring 2026.

Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
1140 19th St. NW, Suite 400
Washington, DC 20036
(202)223-0077

ASCA

In Feb 2023, the M.S Counseling: School Counseling concentration earned national recognition through the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Specialized Professional Association (SPA) under the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Attaining this specialty recognition was an essential component of maintaining CAEP accreditation as an advanced program, and it required the program to demonstrate they meet each of the ASCA School Counselor Preparation Program Standards. NSU is the first-ever program to be awarded this national recognition by ASCA. More information about the ASCA SPA can be found HERE.

 

PYCL 0503 - Counseling Theories for School Counselors+ (3 credits)

This course provides a foundation and overview of theories relevant to the fields of counseling and psychotherapy. The course focuses on the theories and techniques that are consistent with current professional research and practice in school counseling.

PYCL 0507 - Research and Evaluation for Counselors (3 credits)

This course seeks to prepare mental health and school counselors to be informed consumers of research and evaluation. It covers basic statistics, research designs, and program evaluation within the counseling and educational fields. It provides experience in developing accountability measures and in reading research and evaluating reports applicable to multicultural populations. 

PYCL 0510 - Career Development and College Planning (3 credits)

This course addresses effective strategies for helping diverse P-12 students develop career, educational, and postsecondary plans. The course surveys career and lifestyle assessment instruments, career development theories, and decision-making models. The course will emphasize college readiness including college exploration, the application process, and financial aid. Computer-based career development and college planning applications will be studied. 

PYCL 0511 - Introduction to Counseling Techniques+ (3 credits)

This course is an overview of basic counseling skills. The major focus will be on the development of fundamental counseling skills, including listening, empathy training, and basic interviewing. Issues regarding the development of the therapeutic relationship, cultural diversity, and the impact of the counselor on the counseling process will be covered. 

PYCL 0512 - Human Growth and Development+ (3 credits)

This course covers how developmental maturation and social learning impacts individuals across the lifespan. Theory and research in social development and learning are covered in topics for mental health and school counselors.

PYCL 0515 - Principles of School Counseling+ (3 credits)

This course covers the history, philosophy, functions, management, and operation of comprehensive school counseling programs in elementary and secondary schools with emphasis on the role of the professional school counselor.

PYCL 0550 - Contemporary Clinical Interventions+ (3 credits)

This course focuses on an understanding of critical psychological, academic, and socioeconomic issues when working with children, adolescents, and adults in school settings. Topics covered include substance abuse, suicide, violence, teen pregnancy, and other issues affecting the well-being and academic success of students. Primary and secondary prevention strategies will be examined for suitable school-based interventions. Prerequisite: PYCL 0502.

PYCL 0560 - Appraisal & Evaluation in School Counseling (3 credits)

This course covers basic measurement concepts, test content and purpose, psychometric properties, administration, and scoring procedures. Frequently used tests of aptitude, interest, achievement, and personality are reviewed. Issues involved with standardized and non-standardized assessment of achievement, educational diagnostic tests, and vocational interest tests are examined from the school counseling perspective. Issues of ethical test use and use with culturally diverse students are also addressed. Prerequisite: PYCL 0507.

PYCL 0571 - Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues for School Counselors+ (3 credits)

This course covers standards for ethical, legal, and professional conduct in counseling. It considers ethical and legal decisions that school counselors must make. Case examples, current federal and state laws/statutes, ethical codes, and standards on assessment, diagnosis, practice, and placement data are discussed in relation to counseling a variety of populations in multiple settings. Prerequisite: PYCL 0503.

PYCL 0585 - Psychology of Exceptional and At Risk Children (3 credits)

This course covers the etiology and characteristics of exceptionalities and children at risk for underachievement and dropping out. Also covered is the role of the school counselor in identifying such problems, drawing on available resources, and making appropriate referrals. 

PYCL 0632 - Social and Cultural Foundations of Counseling (3 credits)

This course addresses cultural diversity and its implications for counseling. It considers the psychological impact of factors such as gender, race, ethnicity and culture, religious preference, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and physical disability in a variety of counseling and educational settings. Finally, it reviews counseling issues and strategies for counseling diverse clients. 

PYCL 0635 - Group Theory and Practice+ (3 credits)

This course addresses group theory and practice in multiple settings with a variety of diverse populations and age groups. Major themes include group dynamics, group process, and group states for mental health and school counselors.

PYCL 0665 - School Consultation Skills+ (3 credits)

This course focuses on developing specific techniques in consultation, leadership, and advocacy. It integrates the various aspects of a developmental comprehensive school counseling program with particular reference to problem-solving and the utilization of available data and resources. 

PYCL 0685 - School Counseling Practicum (1 semester)+ (3 credits)

This course provides students with knowledge and exposure to educational K-12 settings and requires an in-school field experience. 

PYCL 0688/0689 - School Counseling Internship (2 semesters)

PYCL 0688 - School Counseling Internship (3 credits)

Students are required to spend a specified number of hours per week at a selected K-12 public school setting working under the supervision of a professional school counselor. During that time, students are expected to become advocates for and increase competence in providing services to youth and their families in the personal/social, academic, and career domains. Furthermore, students will be made more aware of the ethical, legal, and professional issues inherent in the counseling process. Prerequisites: PYCL 0502; PYCL 0512; PYCL 0515; PYCL 0550; PYCL 0570; PYCL 0635 (group); PYCL 0665; PYCL 0685; and consent of adviser.

PYCL 0689 - Continuing School Counseling Internship (3 credits)

This course is a continuation of School Counseling Internship I. Students will be expected to develop more advanced skills in working with students and families in school settings. Simultaneously, continued emphasis will be placed upon ethical, legal, and professional issues. Prerequisite: PYCL 0688 or CGPY 0688. 

+ Internship Pre-requisite Course

As of May 9, 2019, the Florida Department of Education no longer requires passing scores on the General Knowledge Test (GKT) of the Florida Teacher Certification Exam (FTCE) for School Counselors. As a result, the NSU Department of Counseling is removing the requisite passing score on the GKT as a matriculation or graduation requirement. Please note that prior to graduation, school counseling candidates are still required to successfully complete the two additional sub-tests of the FTCE: (1) Professional Education (PEd) examination, and (2) Subject Area Test (SAE), which are unaffected by this change.

School Counseling candidates are encouraged to complete the GKT on their own accord, as some post-masters employment opportunities in certain school districts may require successful completion of the GKT as part of an Unrestricted License, as described here:

General Knowledge Requirement Limited to Classroom Teachers

The requirements to hold a professional certificate have been amended for persons who do not serve as a classroom teacher. Persons who are not classroom teachers, such as student advisors, social workers, school psychologists, librarians and learning resource specialists, will not have to demonstrate mastery of GK to hold a professional certificate; however, they will not be eligible to serve as a classroom teacher. Therefore, these persons may apply for a “restricted” professional license; however a “restricted” professional license cannot be used to qualify a person to serve as a classroom teacher. (Line 1953; s. 1012.56(2)(g), F.S.) State Board of Education rule revision is required to implement this new “restricted” professional license.

Core Courses (33 credits) + Substance Abuse Track Courses (15 Credits)

Note: Applicants who are interested in the Florida Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP), should review the requirements for certification at http://flcertificationboard.org/certification/available-certifications/

This track does not satisfy all requirements for mental health counseling licensure (i.e., LMHC, LPC); applicants interested in mental health counseling licensure should see the Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration above.

Program Format:

  • Online 
  • Winter, Summer, and Fall start terms

Core Courses

PYCL 0502 - Counseling Theories and Practice (3 credits)

This course surveys the fields of psychotherapy and counseling. It reviews the various theories and techniques of counseling that are consistent with current professional research and practice in the fields of mental health and school counseling.

PYCL 0507 - Research and Evaluation for Counselors (3 credits)

This course seeks to prepare mental health and school counselors to be informed consumers of research and evaluation. It covers basic statistics, research designs, and program evaluation within the counseling and educational fields. It provides experience in developing accountability measures and in reading research and evaluating reports applicable to multicultural populations.

PYCL 0512 - Human Growth and Development (3 credits)

This course covers how developmental maturation and social learning impacts individuals across the lifespan. Theory and research in social development and learning are covered in topics for mental health and school counselors.

PYCL 0570 - Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues for Counselors (3 credits)

This course covers standards for professional conduct in counseling. It considers ethical and legal decisions that mental health and school counselors must make. Case examples, current federal and state laws/statutes, ethical codes, and standards on assessment, diagnosis, and placement data will be discussed in relation to counseling a variety of culturally diverse populations in multiple settings.

PYCL 0584 - Diagnosis and Treatment of Adult Psychopathology (3 credits)

This course provides an introduction to the definition and study of abnormal or maladaptive behavior, including a broad range of psychopathology relevant to the adult and aged populations. Emphasis will be placed on a descriptive review of the major DSM-IV disorders, supplemented with theoretical considerations of etiology and treatment approaches including the use of psychopharmacological interventions.

PYCL 0608 - Psychological Testing for Individual Evaluation (3 credits)

This course surveys frequently used tests of aptitude, interest, and personality. Test content, purpose, psychometric properties, administration, and scoring procedures are compared and evaluated. Issues of test use with culturally diverse populations are addressed. Prerequisite: PYCL 0507.

PYCL 0612 - Substance Abuse (3 credits)

This course investigates the etiology of alcoholism and drug dependency. Attention is given to assessment and treatment in both individual and family therapy approaches.

PYCL 0631 - Career and Lifestyle Assessment (3 credits)

This course surveys the major theories of career choice, planning, and development as well as standardized methods of assessing vocational interests and aptitudes. Social, psychological, and economic factors influencing career choice are examined. Emphasis will be placed on individual and group career counseling skills across diverse populations.

PYCL 0632 - Social and Cultural Foundations of Counseling (3 credits)

This course addresses cultural diversity and its implications for counseling. It considers the psychological impact of factors such as gender, race, ethnicity and culture, religious preference, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and physical disability in a variety of counseling and educational settings. Finally, it reviews counseling issues and strategies for diverse clients.

PYCL 0635 - Group Theory and Practice (3 credits)

This course addresses group theory and practice in multiple settings with a variety of diverse populations and age groups. Major themes include group dynamics, group process, and group states for mental health and school counselors. Prerequisite: PYCL 0502, PYCL 0511.

PYCL 0645 - Couples and Family Counseling Strategies (3 credits)

This skills course surveys current approaches to couples and family counseling with an emphasis on a systemic conceptual model of family functioning and culturally sensitive therapeutic interventions. It is designed to develop specific intervention competencies. Prerequisite: PYCL 0502; PYCL 0584 or consent of adviser.

Track Courses

SA 0710 - Foundations of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Counseling in Community Settings (3 credits)

This course will examine the public policy prevention strategies, treatment philosophies, and legislative history of rehabilitation. Emphasis will be placed on federal legislation, state laws and social action and their impact on the historical, current and future trends in the development of organizational models and the delivery services in rehabilitative settings.

SA 0720 - Issues in Clinical Supervision (3 credits)

This course will discuss the rationales for establishing treatment plans and their various components. The need to establish proper networks of health care providers, and assisting professionals in establishing effective and appropriate treatment plans will be examined. Timely review, modification, and supervision of the professional therapist, as well as professional consultation/supervision techniques will be emphasized.

SA 0730 - Treatment of Co-occurring Disorders (3 credits)

This course will describe the philosophies, theory and practices in the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery and relapse prevention for individuals diagnosed with co-occurring disorders.

SA 0740 - Psychopharmacology of Illicit and Licit Drugs (3 credits)

This course will review the physical and psychodynamic effects of legal and illegal drugs. Mental disorders, symptomology, assessment measure for addicts and dual diagnosis, along with a thorough examination of the DSM-IV.

SA 0770 - Substance Abuse Counseling Practicum I (3 credits)

This course reviews the many facets of counseling the addicted client. Several topics will be included while focusing on the individual such as, developmental models and dual diagnosis. Discussions regarding other forms of compulsive behaviors will also be introduced. Methods and techniques for intervention, evaluation and treatment will also be covered. Students are encouraged to present topics of interest that arise at their field experience sites and discuss cases for group discussion. Prerequisites: PYCL 0502; PYCL 0507; PYCL 0584; PYCL 0570; PYCL 0612; SA 0740 with a grade of B or better.

Core Courses (33 credits) + Substance Abuse Counseling (15 credits)  + Student Abuse Counseling and Education Track Courses (12 credits)

Note: Applicants who are interested in the Florida Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP), should review the requirements for certification at http://flcertificationboard.org/certification/available-certifications/

This track does not satisfy all requirements for mental health counseling licensure (i.e., LMHC, LPC); applicants interested in mental health counseling licensure should see the Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration above.

Program Format:

  • Online 
  • Winter, Summer, and Fall start terms

Core Courses

PYCL 0502 - Counseling Theories and Practice (3 credits)

This course surveys the fields of psychotherapy and counseling. It reviews the various theories and techniques of counseling that are consistent with current professional research and practice in the fields of mental health and school counseling.

PYCL 0507 - Research and Evaluation for Counselors (3 credits)

This course seeks to prepare mental health and school counselors to be informed consumers of research and evaluation. It covers basic statistics, research designs, and program evaluation within the counseling and educational fields. It provides experience in developing accountability measures and in reading research and evaluating reports applicable to multicultural populations.

PYCL 0512 - Human Growth and Development (3 credits)

This course covers how developmental maturation and social learning impacts individuals across the lifespan. Theory and research in social development and learning are covered in topics for mental health and school counselors.

PYCL 0570 - Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues for Counselors (3 credits)

This course covers standards for professional conduct in counseling. It considers ethical and legal decisions that mental health and school counselors must make. Case examples, current federal and state laws/statutes, ethical codes, and standards on assessment, diagnosis, and placement data will be discussed in relation to counseling a variety of culturally diverse populations in multiple settings.

PYCL 0584 - Diagnosis and Treatment of Adult Psychopathology (3 credits)

This course provides an introduction to the definition and study of abnormal or maladaptive behavior, including a broad range of psychopathology relevant to the adult and aged populations. Emphasis will be placed on a descriptive review of the major DSM-IV disorders, supplemented with theoretical considerations of etiology and treatment approaches including the use of psychopharmacological interventions.

PYCL 0608 - Psychological Testing for Individual Evaluation (3 credits)

This course surveys frequently used tests of aptitude, interest, and personality. Test content, purpose, psychometric properties, administration, and scoring procedures are compared and evaluated. Issues of test use with culturally diverse populations are addressed. Prerequisite: PYCL 0507.

PYCL 0612 - Substance Abuse (3 credits)

This course investigates the etiology of alcoholism and drug dependency. Attention is given to assessment and treatment in both individual and family therapy approaches.

PYCL 0631 - Career and Lifestyle Assessment (3 credits)

This course surveys the major theories of career choice, planning, and development as well as standardized methods of assessing vocational interests and aptitudes. Social, psychological, and economic factors influencing career choice are examined. Emphasis will be placed on individual and group career counseling skills across diverse populations.

PYCL 0632 - Social and Cultural Foundations of Counseling (3 credits)

This course addresses cultural diversity and its implications for counseling. It considers the psychological impact of factors such as gender, race, ethnicity and culture, religious preference, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and physical disability in a variety of counseling and educational settings. Finally, it reviews counseling issues and strategies for diverse clients.

PYCL 0635 - Group Theory and Practice (3 credits)

This course addresses group theory and practice in multiple settings with a variety of diverse populations and age groups. Major themes include group dynamics, group process, and group states for mental health and school counselors. Prerequisite: PYCL 0502, PYCL 0511.

PYCL 0645 - Couples and Family Counseling Strategies (3 credits)

This skills course surveys current approaches to couples and family counseling with an emphasis on a systemic conceptual model of family functioning and culturally sensitive therapeutic interventions. It is designed to develop specific intervention competencies. Prerequisite: PYCL 0502; PYCL 0584 or consent of adviser.

Track Courses

SA 0750 - Prevention Programming and Education (3 credits)

This course will describe the philosophies, practices, policies, and outcomes of the most generally accepted and scientifically supported models of prevention programming.

SA 0780 - Substance Abuse Counseling Practicum II (3 credits)

This course reviews the many facets of counseling the addicted client. Several topics will be included while focusing on the individual such as, developmental models and dual diagnosis. Discussions regarding other forms of compulsive behaviors will also be introduced. Methods and techniques for intervention, evaluation and treatment will also be covered. Students are encouraged to present topics of interest that arise at their field experience sites and discuss cases for group discussion. Prerequisites: SA 0770 with a grade of B or better.

SA 0790 - Substance Abuse Counseling Practicum III (3 credits)

This course reviews the many facets of counseling the addicted client. Several topics will be included while focusing on the individual such as, developmental models and dual diagnosis. Discussions regarding other forms of compulsive behaviors will also be introduced. Methods and techniques for intervention, evaluation and treatment will also be covered. Students are encouraged to present topics of interest that arise at their field experience sites and discuss cases for group discussion. Prerequisites: SA 0780 with a grade of B or better.

Elective Course from Clinical Mental Health Counseling Concentration (3 credits)

ABAI

The Association for Behavior Analysis International has verified the following courses toward the coursework requirements for eligibility to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® examination. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination.

For those interested in learning and understanding the BCBA certification requirements, please visit the Behavior Analyst Certification Board's website: https://www.bacb.com. Click HERE for more information about the BCBA examination pass rate.

Certification: Effective January 1, 2023, initial BACB certification applications will no longer be accepted from individuals who reside outside of the U.S. and Canada. Individuals who earn certification prior to January 1, 2023, will be able to maintain their certification in perpetuity. Note: BACB certifications will remain available in Canada due to the similarities between the Canadian and U.S. educational, regulatory, and economic environments.

Questions about this topic should be directed to Dr. Emmy Maurilus (em986@nova.edu).

Core Courses (33 credits) + Applied Behavior Analysis Track Courses (21-30 Credits)

Note that this track does not satisfy all requirements for mental health counseling licensure (i.e., LMHC, LPC); applicants interested in mental health counseling licensure should see the Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration above.

Program Format:

  • Online 
  • Winter, Summer, and Fall start terms

CORE COURSES

PYCL 0502 - Counseling Theories and Practice (3 credits)

This course surveys the fields of psychotherapy and counseling. It reviews the various theories and techniques of counseling that are consistent with current professional research and practice in the fields of mental health and school counseling.

PYCL 0507 - Research and Evaluation for Counselors (3 credits)

This course seeks to prepare mental health and school counselors to be informed consumers of research and evaluation. It covers basic statistics, research designs, and program evaluation within the counseling and educational fields. It provides experience in developing accountability measures and in reading research and evaluating reports applicable to multicultural populations.

PYCL 0512 - Human Growth and Development (3 credits)

This course covers how developmental maturation and social learning impacts individuals across the lifespan. Theory and research in social development and learning are covered in topics for mental health and school counselors.

PYCL 0570 - Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues for Counselors (3 credits)

This course covers standards for professional conduct in counseling. It considers ethical and legal decisions that mental health and school counselors must make. Case examples, current federal and state laws/statutes, ethical codes, and standards on assessment, diagnosis, and placement data will be discussed in relation to counseling a variety of culturally diverse populations in multiple settings.

PYCL 0584 - Diagnosis and Treatment of Adult Psychopathology (3 credits)

This course provides an introduction to the definition and study of abnormal or maladaptive behavior, including a broad range of psychopathology relevant to the adult and aged populations. Emphasis will be placed on a descriptive review of the major DSM-IV disorders, supplemented with theoretical considerations of etiology and treatment approaches including the use of psychopharmacological interventions.

PYCL 0608 - Psychological Testing for Individual Evaluation (3 credits)

This course surveys frequently used tests of aptitude, interest, and personality. Test content, purpose, psychometric properties, administration, and scoring procedures are compared and evaluated. Issues of test use with culturally diverse populations are addressed. Prerequisite: PYCL 0507.

PYCL 0612 - Substance Abuse (3 credits)

This course investigates the etiology of alcoholism and drug dependency. Attention is given to assessment and treatment in both individual and family therapy approaches.

PYCL 0631 - Career and Lifestyle Assessment (3 credits)

This course surveys the major theories of career choice, planning, and development as well as standardized methods of assessing vocational interests and aptitudes. Social, psychological, and economic factors influencing career choice are examined. Emphasis will be placed on individual and group career counseling skills across diverse populations.

PYCL 0632 - Social and Cultural Foundations of Counseling (3 credits)

This course addresses cultural diversity and its implications for counseling. It considers the psychological impact of factors such as gender, race, ethnicity and culture, religious preference, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and physical disability in a variety of counseling and educational settings. Finally, it reviews counseling issues and strategies for diverse clients.

PYCL 0635 - Group Theory and Practice (3 credits)

This course addresses group theory and practice in multiple settings with a variety of diverse populations and age groups. Major themes include group dynamics, group process, and group states for mental health and school counselors. Prerequisite: PYCL 0502, PYCL 0511.

PYCL 0645 - Couples and Family Counseling Strategies (3 credits)

This skills course surveys current approaches to couples and family counseling with an emphasis on a systemic conceptual model of family functioning and culturally sensitive therapeutic interventions. It is designed to develop specific intervention competencies. Prerequisite: PYCL 0502; PYCL 0584 or consent of adviser.

TRACK COURSES 

ABA 0711 - Concepts and Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis I (3 credits)

This 45-hour graduate-level course is Part I of a two-part series of ABA concepts and principles. Students will study the philosophy and science of applied behavior analysis, an overview of the field of ABA, basic vocabulary and concepts in the field, and basic strategies for increasing and decreasing behaviors of students in a variety of settings. Specifically, this course covers the following BACB Fifth Edition content areas: A: Philosophical Underpinnings and B: Concepts and Principles.

ABA 0712 - Concepts and Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis II (3 credits)

This 45-hour graduate-level course is Part II of a two-part series of ABA concepts and principles. Students will study the science of applied behavior analysis, the field of ABA, basic vocabulary and concepts in the field, and basic strategies for increasing and decreasing behaviors of students in a variety of settings. Specifically, this course will cover Unit B: Concepts and Principles from the BACB Fifth Edition task list. Prerequisites (or can be taken in conjunction with): ABA 0711.

ABA 0721 - Applied Behavior Analysis Assessment and Application (3 credits)

This 45-hour graduate-level course will delve into the application of the concepts and principles of applied behavior analysis. It will focus on the current research on behavior assessment strategies, behavioral intervention strategies and change procedures, and methods of accountability in ABA interventions. This course covers BACB Fifth Edition Task List content areas: F: Behavior Assessment, G: Behavior-Change Procedures, and H: Selecting and Implementing Interventions. Prerequisites: ABA 0711 & ABA 0712.

ABA 0731 - Applied Behavior Analysis Assessment and Delivery Models (3 credits)

This 45-hour graduate-level course will focus on conducting behavior analytic assessments in order to identify targets for behavior change programs. Additionally, the class will explore the variety of delivery models for services within the ABA model. Specifically, the delivery models of behavioral medicine, treatment of autism/developmental disabilities, organizational behavior management, and education will be examined. This course covers BACB Fifth Edition Task List content areas F: Behavior Assessment, G: Behavior-Change Procedures, and H: Selecting and Implementing Interventions. Prerequisites: ABA 0711 & ABA 0712.

ABA 0741 - Evaluating Interventions in Applied Behavior Analysis (3 credits)

This 45-hour graduate-level course will focus on evaluation strategies used in research and in the ethical provision of interventions. This course covers the following BACB Fifth Edition content areas: C: Measurement, Data Display, and Interpretation and D: Experimental Design. Mastery of this content allows for critical evaluation of research literature resulting in evidenced based decision making on assessment and intervention strategies across a variety of populations. Prerequisites: ABA 0711 & ABA 0712.

ABA 0751 - Supervision and Management in Applied Behavior Analysis (3 credits)

This 45-hour graduate-level course will focus on applied behavior analysis supervision and management of behavior change agents. It will address the components of effective supervision, as well as the development of performance monitoring, reinforcement, and feedback systems. In addition, focus will be placed on the role of assessment in supervision and management. This course covers the following BACB Fifth Edition content areas: F: Behavior Assessment and I: Personnel Supervision and Management. Prerequisites: ABA 0711 & ABA 0712.

ABA 0756 - Ethical and Professional Issues in Applied Behavior Analysis (3 credits)

This 45-hour graduate-level course will focus on the ethical practice of applied behavior analysis across clinical, research, and professional settings. It covers content area E: Ethics (Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts) from the BACB’s Fifth Edition Task List. Students will evaluate common ethical dilemmas that arise during clinical research and practice in applied behavior analysis and identify and apply strategies and guidelines for resolving ethical issues. Prerequisites: ABA 0711 & ABA 0712.

 

BEGINNING FALL 2021, THE FOLLOWING FIELDWORK COURSES WILL BE OFFERED.

ELECTIVE FIELDWORK IN APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS - OPTIONAL - (9 CREDITS)

ABA 0761 - Fieldwork in Applied Behavior Analysis I (3 credits)

This 45-hour graduate-level course is designed to provide students the opportunity to apply theory to practice in an approved ABA fieldwork setting where they are required to accrue the specified amount of clinical training and supervision hours.  Students will gain meaningful training experiences with the oversight of highly qualified university faculty dedicated to training future practitioners in the philosophy and evidence-based practice of ABA.  Students will be expected to collect and share data on their cases and employ strategies of behavioral assessment and interventions with input from their supervisors. Prerequisites: ABA 0711 & ABA 0712

ABA 0771- Fieldwork in Applied Behavior Analysis II (3 credits)

This 45-hour graduate-level course is a continuation of ABA 0761.  These courses were designed to provide students the opportunity to apply theory to practice in an approved ABA fieldwork setting where they are required to accrue the specified amount of clinical training and supervision hours.  These courses are spiraled, meaning each successive course builds upon the previous course, thus promoting advanced competencies and skills.  Students will gain meaningful training experiences with the oversight of highly qualified university faculty dedicated to training future practitioners in the philosophy and evidence-based practice of ABA.  Students will be expected to collect and share data on their cases and employ strategies of behavioral assessment and intervention with input from their supervisors.  Prerequisites: ABA 0761

ABA 0781- Fieldwork in Applied Behavior Analysis III (3 credits)

This 45-hour graduate-level course is a continuation of ABA 0771.  These courses were designed to provide the opportunity to apply theory to practice in an approved ABA fieldwork setting where they are required to accrue the specified amount of clinical training and supervision hours.  These courses are spiraled, meaning each successive course builds upon the previous course, thus promoting advanced competencies and skills.  Students will gain meaningful training experiences with the oversight of highly qualified university faculty dedicated to training future practitioners in the philosophy and evidence-based practice of ABA.  Students will be expected to collect and share data on their cases and employ strategies of behavioral assessment and intervention with input from their supervisors.  Prerequisites: ABA 0771

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