Table of Contents. VI. Graduate School Survival Tips VII. Study Tips VIII. Course Description IX. Initial Sequence of Courses...

Transcription

1 Student Handbook For M.Ed. in Counseling and Guidance The University of Texas at Brownsville College of Education Department of Educational Psychology & Leadership Studies Counseling and Guidance Program Teaching, Learning and Scholarly Inquiry for an Intercultural World

2 Table of Contents I. Preface... 1 II. Mission... 2 III. Overview of Counseling and Guidance Program... 2 IV. CACREP Accreditation information V. Faculty/Staff... 3 VI. Graduate School Survival Tips... 4 VII. Study Tips... 5 VIII. Course Description... 7 IX. Initial Sequence of Courses X. Students Beginning Prior to Fall XI. Program of Study XII. School Counselor & Community Counseling Comparison XIII. Steps for Practicum Internship Enrollment XIV. Site and Site Supervision Requirements XV. Professionalism XVI. Confidentiality XVII. Professional Liability Coverage XVIII. Required Hours for Practicum Internship XIX. Community Counseling Clinic XX. Counseling and Guidance Program Orientation Requirement4 XXI. Faculty Seminar Requirement XXII. Reading List Requirement... 25

3 XXIII. Oral Examination XXIV. Comprehensive Examination XXV. XXVI. TExES School Professional School Counselor Exam Examination Requirements for LPC XXVII. Thesis Option XXVIII. Counseling and Guidance Student Association XXIX. Official Policy and Endorsement Statements XXX. Helpful Websites XXXI. Appendix A: Reading List XXXII. Appendix B: Application for Oral Exam & Evaluation XXXIII. Appendix C: ACA Code of Ethics XXXIV. Appendix F: Accreditation, Competencies and Standards... 39

4 1 Preface The faculty and staff in the Counseling and Guidance Graduate Program at University of Texas at Brownsville (UTB) welcome you. This handbook is intended to provide master s level students with information about the Counseling and Guidance Program at The University of Texas at Brownsville. It is intended to supplement, not substitute, the graduate catalog. Because graduate procedures, course requirements, and prerequisites may change, students should be familiar with the latest copy of the graduate catalog and meet with faculty when necessary. The requirements, number of hours, and class offerings for the M. Ed. Program, Professional School Counselor Certification, and State licensure for Professional Counselors are subject to change. Changes may apply to both prospective and current students. Although this handbook provides an overview of the policies, procedures, and requirements of the Counseling and Guidance Program, the handbook is not intended to be exhaustive. This catalog is a general information publication only. It is not intended to nor does it contain all regulations that relate to students. Instead, students must seek answers to questions from other sources, including, although not limited to, program faculty, College of Education, professional associations, state credentialing agencies, Graduate catalog, and the UTB Graduate Office. The primary responsibility for reading and following correct policies and procedures remains with the student, not the faculty. In addition, students are expected to abide and stay current with laws and ethical codes set forth by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, the American Counseling Association, the American School Counselor Association, and other ethical standards relevant to their practice. Of particular importance is behavior related to confidentiality in groups, with clients, and with cases discussed in class. Students should take extra care with materials (DVD s, tapes, files, reports, etc.) related to clients. Violations of ethical standards are taken seriously by the program faculty and may affect your ability to continue in the program.

5 2 Mission The mission of the Counseling and Guidance Program is to prepare qualified counselors who can work with diverse populations in a variety of settings. The Counseling and Guidance Program focuses on personal growth, ethical behavior, lifelong learning, multicultural competence, and the counselor s responsibility in promoting social justice and advocacy. The program teaches the development and application of critical thinking and research skills applicable to the role of the professional counselor. Accreditations Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP) Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Texas Education Agency (TEA) In addition the university holds other accreditations at the state and national level. For more information refer to the graduate catalog. Overview of Counseling and Guidance Program The Counseling and Guidance master s degree program offers two tracks: School Counseling and Community Counseling. School Counseling The curriculum of the program is for the preparation of school counselors and meets the criteria of the Texas State Board for Educator Certification for endorsement of a school counselor. This curriculum option requires 54 hours of graduate study. Community Counseling The curriculum for Community Counseling in the Counseling and Guidance program is designed to prepare individuals for direct entry into or advancement in counseling and related positions in a variety of public or private counseling agencies. Typical community programs or agencies include mental health centers, substance abuse programs, and marriage and family counseling services. Students completing this track will be required to take and pass the National Counselor Exam and the Texas Jurisprudence Exam before applying for a temporary license. The temporary LPC license is required to begin a supervised internship for state licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor. This curriculum option requires 54 hours of graduate study. The Counseling & Guidance Program provides additional coursework and experience required for a temporary license from the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors for students also graduating from the School Counseling track.

6 3 Counseling & Guidance Program Faculty/Staff Dr. Alma G. Leal Professor Office: EDBC Phone: (956) Fax: (956) Dr. Lionel Cavazos Assistant Professor Office: EDBC Phone: (956) Fax: (956) Dr. Olivia Rivas Professor Chair, Department of Educational Psychology & Leadership Studies Office: EDBC 2.208A Phone: (956) Fax: (956) Ms. Jackie Trujillo Department Secretary II Office: EDBC Phone: (956) Fax: (956) Ms. Michelle del Castillo-Davis Community Counseling Clinic Supervisor Dr. Selma Yznaga Associate Professor Office: EDBC Office: EDBC Phone: (956) Phone: (956) Fax: (956) Fax: (956) Dr. Melissa Alvarado Samantha Airhart Assistant Professor Community Counseling Clinic Office : EDBC Supervisor Phone : (956) Office: EDBC Fax: (956) Phone: (956) Melissa.Alvarado@utb.edu Fax: (956) Dr. Eunice Lerma Assistant Professor Office: EDBC Phone: (956) Fax: (956) Eunice.lerma@utb.edu

7 4 Graduate School Survival Tips 1) Pace yourself. 2) Stay organized. a. Use a to-do list to free your mind for the work at hand. b. Set up a filing system. c. Use binders to organize class notes, with dividers to separate your notes from assigned readings, handouts, and other materials. 3) Read the entire syllabus for each class. 4) Read the Graduate Catalog. 5) Enhance oral and written communications skills. a. What is written without effort is, in general, read without pleasure. - Samuel Johnson b. Present to inform, not to impress; if you inform, you will impress. - Fred Brooks 6) Become thoroughly familiar with the American Psychological Association (APA) writing style. 7) Become informed of program requirements, deadlines, and other pertinent information. 8) Ask for help early in the semester. 9) See you advisor regularly. The difference between people who exercise initiative and those who don t is literally the difference between night and day. I m not talking about a 25 to 50 percent difference in effectiveness; I m talking about a 5000-plus percent difference, particularly if they are smart, aware, and sensitive to others. Stephen R. Covey, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

8 5 Study Tips Two frequent complaints of students are that they cannot concentrate while studying and that they cannot remember the material, which they studied. There are many techniques for improving your concentration and memory, although you will have to see which one suits you best. Plan what you are going to study in order of priority. If you spend a lot of time reviewing information that is not vital, you will have trouble concentrating. Break your study time up into manageable periods of time, and schedule a regular break. Deal with any anxieties. Personal or course-related anxiety is a common barrier to successful concentration. Anxiety can be alleviated by various relaxation techniques, including doing something, which normally calms you. Other anxiety: you see task as a whole, rather than breaking it down into manageable portions Avoid distractions. Places which are noisy, poorly lit or ventilated, or where you normally do other things, are the wrong places to study. Pick a study spot, which does not strain your eyes or body and make sure that all the supplies you need are on hand. Tell your family you do not want to be disturbed. Try some techniques to improve your ability to memorize. Organize and summarize your notes into essential ideas; try to remember a difficult set of concepts by turning the first letter of each word into an acronym. Constant recitation and review of course material will improve your ability to remember what you studied. Switch subjects frequently. If you have a short attention span or are easily bored, switch the subjects you are studying frequently. Having variety helps ward off boredom. Sleep well! If you do not get enough sleep, you will be less able to concentrate. Most people need 7-9 hours of sleep to function normally.

9 6 Ask yourself questions. The key to maintaining focus is to stop periodically and ask yourself questions, such as: How does this relate to what I already know? If this is true, what else follows? What else could these facts mean? What assumptions are being made? What is the evidence for this? Can I think of a good example of this? What are the unique points of this? Get the most from your reading. -Check off (with a light pencil mark) each paragraph that you completely understand. If you start to get lost in the reading, you will know exactly where-- just after the last check! -If a section is too difficult for you, try reading in a whisper. Hearing what we read is like reading it a second time. -Similarly, it is good to stop regularly and summarize aloud what you have just read. -Try to link new information with the information you already know. -Don t forget to jot down key words and concepts.

10 7 Counseling (COUN)/Educational Psychology (EPSY) Course Descriptions COUN Seminar in Counseling and Guidance Through a series of six steps, develops skills related to helping professions. Primarily for in-service training with counselors and teachers. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. Lec 1, Cr 1 COUN 6301 Introduction to Research Methods in Counseling This course is designed to assist professional counselors in evaluating and applying research findings to a variety of practical situations in both mental health and school settings. Students will be required to search for, explore, and critique current research in the counseling field and complete an original, scholarly paper in the form of a research proposal. Lec 3, Cr 3+ EPSY 6304 Foundations of Learning, Cognition and Human Development Advanced study in the specialization of life-span development theories to human behavior, learning and cognition. Includes specific models of cognition and relevant research. This course includes the nature of needs of people at all developmental levels from prenatal through old age. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6305 Group Dynamics This course provides an overview of interpersonal process and the field of group dynamics. It is designed to develop the individual s ability to understand and integrate various properties of group and interpersonal relationships into a personal and professional framework. This course cannot substitute for the Group Counseling for the Guidance & Counseling majors. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance and Counseling Philosophy, principles, and current practices of pupil guidance. Pupils social, emotional, intellectual and attitudinal dimensions are explored. Group guidance and individual counseling techniques that apply in public schools are studied through lectures, discussions and class participation. This course also introduces the student to the field of counseling and guidance, as well as the major theories of counseling. The student will develop an awareness of the guidance services and the role identity of the counselor. Knowledge of the development of counseling and the present state of the profession will be acquired. The students will understand the importance of personal qualifications and professional preparation standards for counselors. Students will begin to evaluate the self in relation to these qualifications and standards. The course also presents an overview of the purposes and objectives of professional organizations. Also included in the course is an in-depth study of ethical standards and legal issues pertaining to the counseling profession. Lec 3, Cr 3

11 8 COUN 6313 Personal Growth Discussions and practical application of group dynamics within a framework of group therapy. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment I This course explores the theory and techniques of administering, scoring, and interpreting educational and psychological tests. Includes test selection, administration, and the dynamics of test interpretation to enable the counselor to synthesize, integrate, and evaluate appraisal data for use in guidance and counseling. In the last segment of the course, students will practice taking, administering and interpreting a variety of educational and psychological test. Prerequisite: COUN Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy This course is intended to introduce students to the major theories of counseling and psychotherapy. Psychoanalytic, behavioral, cognitive, and humanistic-existential as well as other counseling approaches will be discussed. Case studies, instructional videos, roleplaying and in-class exercises will be used to illustrate the principles of therapeutic change. Prerequisite: COUN 6310, COUN 6313 and instructor s consent. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy Primary focus is on techniques and interviewing skills that come into play during counseling sessions. In addition, this course addresses how these techniques are applied to special topics and issues such as career counseling, group counseling, crisis counseling and family counseling. Prerequisite: COUN 6310, COUN 6313 and instructor s consent. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6340 Diagnosis and Treatment Planning in Counseling (pending approval) The course will introduce students to the concepts of psychopathology and to major diagnostic categories of the current DSM. Emphasis is placed on differential diagnosis and understanding of how cultural, biological, social, and psychological factors are necessary when developing a holistic and ethical model of assessment and treatment planning. Prerequisites: COUN 6327, COUN 6328 Lec 3. Cr 3 EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology The history and systems of adolescent psychology. Modern theories and current research in learning and pupil motivation, especially in relation to various aspects of the educational process. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling and Guidance A course involving individual study in topics related to counseling and guidance. Prerequisite: instructor s consent. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6344 School Counseling and Guidance Students will learn the essential roles and responsibilities of school counselors as they relate to planning, implementation and evaluation of counseling and guidance programs.

12 9 Students learn research-based practices in school counseling. Ethical, legal, and multicultural issues are emphasized. Prerequisite: COUN Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6345 Career Counseling A survey and analysis of the processes of assisting people to choose, prepare for, enter, and progress in an occupation. The course trains leaders who can help people make decisions and choices in planning a future and building a career. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling This course will prepare individuals to counsel drug users, addicts and family members using various preventive strategies and treatment regimes. Includes instruction in outreach; patient education; therapeutic intervention methods; diagnostic procedures and addiction symptomology. Prerequisite: COUN 6310, COUN 6327, Lec 3. Cr 3 COUN 6349 Child & Adolescent Counseling This course is an introduction to counseling theory and technique applied to children and adolescents. Appropriate developmental and cultural issues will be presented. The course is designed to help students become more knowledgeable about current research and approaches for working with this population. Prerequisite: COUN 6327, 6328.Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling The course provides an overview of the psychology of crisis, and contemporary theory and practice of crisis intervention. Special emphasis is given to basic features of normative and extreme psychological reactions to crisis and trauma, and the process of successful crisis resolution counselors and emergency first-responders actively promote. Prerequisites: COUN Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6361 Introduction to Marriage and Family Therapy This course introduces students to the study of individual and family development, family dynamics, interpersonal relationships and marriage and family systems. The course will include selected theories, methods, and techniques of marriage and family therapy with particular emphasis on multicultural, legal and ethical issues in the practice of marriage and family counseling. Prerequisite: COUN 6327, 6328 or approval of instructor. Lec 3, Cr.3 COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling This course will provide an understanding of the characteristics and needs of culturally diverse clients. The course will include issues related to ethnic groups, gender, family systems, differing lifestyles, and the impact of social, political, and economic factors on specific populations. Techniques for counseling culturally diverse populations will also be covered. Prerequisite: COUN 6310 or consent of instructor. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6365 Counseling Practicum I A study of selected counseling theories and supervised experience in individual counseling. Required client contact hours are completed at the UTB Community Counseling Clinic. Cases assigned off campus in schools and community agencies. This

13 10 course must be taken within last nine hours of program. Prerequisites: Block1 and departmental approval. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6367 Foundations of Community and Agency Counseling This course helps students gain knowledge and understanding of community counseling issues including historical foundations, the role and function of community counselor, and working with specific populations. The administration and function of community counseling agencies are studied, with emphasis on the ethical issues confronting various agencies. Prerequisites: COUN 6327, Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6368 Group Counseling This course develops an understanding of group processes, theories and techniques. Demonstrated competence in this knowledge and in applying group procedures will be required. Prerequisites: COUN 6327, Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6369 Counseling Internship I Supervised internship in counseling in an approved agency and/or school setting. Prerequisites: COUN 6365 and departmental approval. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 6370 Counseling Internship II Supervised internship in counseling in an approved agency and/or school setting. Prerequisites: COUN 6369 and departmental approval. Lec 3, Cr 3 COUN 7300 & 7301 Thesis Pass/Fail Grade. Prerequisite: Approval of graduate advisor. Lec 3, Cr 3

14 11 Initial Sequence of Courses Beginning students should initially enroll in COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance & Counseling; COUN 6313 Personal Growth; or COUN 6301 Introduction to Research Methods in Counseling. Following these courses, COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy and COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy should follow. These are our core courses and are prerequisites to many other counseling courses. Core Courses : COUN 6310: Introduction to Guidance & Counseling COUN 6301: Introduction to Research Methods in Counseling COUN 6313: Personal Growth COUN 6327: Theories of Psychotherapy COUN 6328: Techniques of Psychotherapy Students should be aware of any prerequisites when scheduling their courses. STUDENTS BEGINNING PRIOR TO 2010 The Counseling & Guidance Program implemented changes in both the School Counseling and Community Counseling tracks in Fall 2007 and again in Fall Students who began the program prior to Fall 2010 should see their faculty advisor for information related to the credit hours, addition of new courses, changes in course names and prefixes and changes in course requirements. Eligibility for practicum/internship will depend on when you first enrolled in the counseling and guidance program.

15 12 The University Of Texas at Brownsville GRADUATE PROGRAM OF STUDY Instructions: This Program of Study must be prepared in consultation with the graduate advisor. It must reflect the degree requirements listed in the Graduate Catalog. Any changes to the degree requirements as shown on the POS must have the written approval and justification of the graduate advisor and the Department Chair prior to submission to the Office of Graduate Studies. Information given must be complete. The POS must be typed. Name Address Last First MI Student ID# Street City State Zip Home Phone Work/Cell Phone Degree Program: M.Ed. Concentration: Counseling and Guidance Track: Catalog Year: 1. Transfer Courses (if any). If applicable, list the courses you are requesting to transfer (attach copy of transcript). Transfer courses must meet guidelines set forth in the Graduate Catalog. Transfer Course Institution UTB Equivalent Course Year Taken 2. Courses that have been or will be completed at UTB If pursuing second master s degree, maximum of nine hours from first master s degree can be used toward second master s degree only if Masters was obtained at UTB. Course availability is subject to change depending on student enrollment. All of block one courses must be completed prior to enrolling in practicum. Students are advised not to enroll in more than six hours each semester if employed full time. Course Prefix and Number Course Name Semester/Year COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance and Counseling COUN 6313 Personal Growth COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling EPSY 6304 Foundations of Learning, Cognition, and Human Development COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313) COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6327) COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6328) COUN 6345 Career Counseling COUN 6344 School Counseling and Guidance (6310) COUN 6361 Intro to Marr and Family Therapy(6310,6327) COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310) COUN 6365 Practicum (Block1 & w/program Approval) COUN 6349 Child & Adolescent Counseling (6328) COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301) COUN 6369 Counseling Internship I(6365) COUN 6370 Counseling Internship II (6370) COUN 6340 Diag & Tmt Plan in Couns (6328) EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology

16 13 Foun of Community and Agency Counseling COUN 6367 (6367,6364) COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327) COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327) COUN 6305 Group Dynamics COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance COUN Hour Seminars Graduate Studies UBCB 1.206; Brownsville, TX (956) ;

17 14 3. Statement of your professional objectives for the program and certification(s) if any. 4. Experiences other than formal course work necessary or desired to achieve your objectives. 5. Indicate the method of final examination that will document that you have achieved your professional objectives. For a final exiting examination, a capstone experience or a thesis defense, give the anticipated semester and anticipated date of completion. Comprehensive Exam Thesis Orals TExES Semester/Year Students must complete all graduate work for a degree within seven years of the time of their first graduate course registration. Graduate courses more than seven years old will not be accepted for credit toward a degree program. Print Name: Signature: Graduate Student Signature: Faculty Advisor Approval: Department Chair Approval: Graduate Office Approval: Date Date Date Date Xc: Student Advisor Department Chair Graduate Office retains original. Graduate Studies UBCB 1.206; Brownsville, TX (956) ; utbgrad@utb.edu

18 15 The University Of Texas at Brownsville GRADUATE PROGRAM OF STUDY Instructions: This Program of Study must be prepared in consultation with the graduate advisor. It must reflect the degree requirements listed in the Graduate Catalog. Any changes to the degree requirements as shown on the POS must have the written approval and justification of the graduate advisor and the Department Chair prior to submission to the Office of Graduate Studies. Information given must be complete. The POS must be typed. Name Address Last First MI Student ID# Street City State Zip Home Phone Work/Cell Phone Degree Program: M.Ed. Concentration: Counseling and Guidance Track: Catalog Year: 1. Transfer Courses (if any). If applicable, list the courses you are requesting to transfer (attach copy of transcript). Transfer courses must meet guidelines set forth in the Graduate Catalog. Transfer Course Institution UTB Equivalent Course Year Taken 2. Courses that have been or will be completed at UTB If pursuing second master s degree, maximum of nine hours from first master s degree can be used toward second master s degree only if Masters was obtained at UTB. Course availability is subject to change depending on student enrollment. All of block one courses must be completed prior to enrolling in practicum. Students are advised not to enroll in more than six hours each semester if employed full time. Course Prefix and Number Course Name Semester/Year COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance and Counseling COUN 6313 Personal Growth COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling EPSY 6304 Foundations of Learning, Cognition, and Human Development COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313) COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6327) COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6328) COUN 6345 Career Counseling COUN 6340 Diag & Tmt Plan in Couns (6328) COUN 6361 Intro to Marr and Family Therapy(6310,6327) COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310) COUN 6365 Practicum (Block1 & w/program Approval) COUN 6367 Foun of Community and Agency Counseling (6327,6364) COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301) COUN 6369 Counseling Internship I(6365) COUN 6370 Counseling Internship II (6370) EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology

19 16 COUN 6344 School Counseling & Guidance (6310) COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327) COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327) COUN 6349 Child & Adolescent Coun (6328) COUN 6305 Group Dynamics COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance COUN Hour Seminars Graduate Studies UBCB 1.206; Brownsville, TX (956) ;

20 17 3. Statement of your professional objectives for the program and certification(s) if any. 4. Experiences other than formal course work necessary or desired to achieve your objectives. 5. Indicate the method of final examination that will document that you have achieved your professional objectives. For a final exiting examination, a capstone experience or a thesis defense, give the anticipated semester and anticipated date of completion. Comprehensive Exam Thesis Orals TExES Semester/Year Students must complete all graduate work for a degree within seven years of the time of their first graduate course registration. Graduate courses more than seven years old will not be accepted for credit toward a degree program. Print Name: Signature: Graduate Student Signature: Faculty Advisor Approval: Department Chair Approval: Graduate Office Approval: Date Date Date Date Xc: Student Advisor Department Chair Graduate Office retains original. Graduate Studies UBCB 1.206; Brownsville, TX (956) ; utbgrad@utb.edu

21 Fall Spring Summer Professional School Counselor Certification Option* Thesis/Non-Thesis 54 Hours THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT BROWNSVILLE COUNSELING & GUIDANCE PROGRAM Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies Department Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling and Guidance Offered Community Counseling Option Thesis/Non-Thesis 54 Hours 48 Hours of Required Courses 45 Hours of Required Courses COUN 6310 Intro to Guidance & Counseling Ex COUN 6310 Intro to Guidance & Counseling COUN 6313 Personal Growth I COUN 6313 Personal Growth COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling II COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling EPSY 6304 Human Growth and Development I, II EPSY 6304 Human Growth and Development COUN 6345 Career Counseling I COUN 6345 Career Counseling COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301)* II COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301)* COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310)* COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310)* COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)* COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)* COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)* COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)* COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6327,6328)* COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6327,6328)* COUN 6361 Intro to Marriage & Fam Ther (6310, 6327)* COUN 6361 Intro to Marriage & Fam Ther (6310, 6327)* COUN 6344 School Counseling and Guidance (6310)* COUN 6349 Child & Adolescent Coun (6327, 6328)* COUN 6340 Diag and Ttmt. Planning in Couns (6328) COUN 6367 Foun of Comm & Agency Coun (6327, 6364)* COUN 6365 Practicum (Last 12 Hours; 6327,6328)* COUN 6365 Practicum (Last 12 Hours; 6327, 6328)* COUN 6369 Internship I (6365)* COUN 6369 Internship I (6365)* COUN 6370 Internship II (6369)* COUN 6370 Internship II (6369)* 6 Hours of Electives OR 6 Hours of Thesis 6 Hours of Electives OR 6 Hours of Thesis EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology I EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology COUN 6340 Diag and Ttmt. Planning in Couns (6328) COUN 6367 Foun of Comm & Agency Coun (6327, 6364)* COUN 6349 Child & Adolescent Coun (6327, 6328)* COUN 6344 School Counseling and Guidance (6310)* COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327)* E COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327)* COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327)* O COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327)* COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance TBA COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance COUN 6305 Group Dynamics TBA COUN 6305 Group Dynamics COUN Hour Seminars TBA COUN Hour Seminars EDCI 7300 & 7301 Thesis (advisor approval required) TBA EDCI 7300 & 7301 Thesis (advisor approval required) Other Approved Electives Other Approved Electives Oral Interview 6-12 Hours Oral Interview Comprehensive Exam (Must pass prior to Practicum) Prior to Practicum Comprehensive Exam (Must pass prior to Practicum) TExES for Professional Counselor Certification Last Semester See LPC Rules NCE & Jurisprudence Exam. Must pass to apply for Regarding Requirements 3000 Hour Internship Under Approved LPC Supervisor *Must be a certified teacher to enroll in this option. *May not enroll in these courses without prerequisites listed in parenthesis. May be taken concurrently with COUN Separate applications are required for the oral interview, graduation, comprehensive examination, the Professional School Counselor certificate and/or the licensure exam. Students are responsible for becoming familiar with the application processes and deadlines. Check the graduate catalog and course schedule or contact the appropriate offices. This information is current as of Spring, The requirements, number of hours and class offerings for the M.Ed., Professional School Counselor Certification and state licensure are subject to change. Changes will become effective whenever implemented by the proper authorities and will apply to both prospective and current students. The student is ultimately responsible for becoming familiar with all graduate and program requirements listed in the catalog s/he is following for the M.Ed. degree. Spring

22 19 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT BROWNSVILLE Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling and Guidance School Counseling Option 54 Credit-Hour Program Students Entering Program Fall 2012 or After BLOCK I (27 hours) F S SUM COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance & Counseling x x COUN 6313 Personal Growth x x COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling x x Foun of Learning, Cognition and Human Development x x I,II EPSY 6304 COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)* x x COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6327)* x x COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6328)* x x COUN 6345 Career Counseling x I COUN 6344 School Counseling & Guidance (6310) x Oral Examination must be completed between 6-12 hours. x x BLOCK II (27 hours) COUN 6361 Intro to Marr & Family Therapy (6310, 6327)* x I COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310)* x II COUN 6365 Practicum (Block I & w/ Program Approval)* x x COUN 6349 Child and Adolescent Counseling (6328) x II COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301)* x II COUN 6369 Counseling Internship I (6365)* x x COUN 6370 Counseling Internship II (6370)* x x Elective See schedule Elective below. Comprehensive Exam (Block I)* x x Electives COUN 6340 Diag & Tmt Plan in Couns (6328)* x II EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology I COUN 6367 Foun of Community & Agency Counseling (6367, 6364)* x I COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327)* xo IIe COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327)* xe IIo COUN 6305 Group Dynamics These classes are not regularly offered. COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance COUN Hour Seminars Other Approved Counseling-Related Electives COUN 7300 & 7301 Thesis OR Thesis (6 Hours) * May not enroll in these courses without prerequisites listed in parentheses. May take concurrently with COUN Faculty approval of placement. e = even years; o = odd years School Counselor Certification Process Students enrolling in the M.Ed. in Counseling and Guidance with Professional School Counselor Certification must prove that they are certified teachers or are seeking/have alternative teacher certification. The Professional School Counselor Certificate requires two (2) years of teaching experience. Some school districts may require additional years of teaching prior to employment as a school counselor. Professional School Counselor Certification also requires that students pass the Texas Examination of Educator Standards (TExES) (formerly the ExCET) in school counseling. This information is current as of Summer, The requirements and number of hours for the M.Ed., Professional School Counselor Certification and state licensure are subject to change. Changes will become effective whenever implemented by the proper authorities and will apply to both prospective and current students. The student is ultimately responsible for becoming familiar with all graduate, program, and certification requirements listed in the catalog s/he is following for the M.Ed. degree and on the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC)website. Additional information regarding Professional School Counseling can be found at and Licensure Option: School Counseling track students wishing to complete the academic requirements of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors toward licensure as an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) should take COUN 6340: Diagnosis and Treatment Planning in Counseling as an elective. Revised 1/2013

23 20 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT BROWNSVILLE Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling and Guidance Community Counseling Option 54 Credit-Hour Program Students Entering Program Fall 2011 or After BLOCK I (27 hours) F S SUM COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance & Counseling x x COUN 6313 Personal Growth x x COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling x x Foun of Learning, Cognition and Human Development x x I,II EPSY 6304 COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)* x x COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6327)* x x COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6328)* x x COUN 6345 Career Counseling x I COUN 6340 Diag & Tmt Plan in Couns (6328)* x II Oral Examination must be completed between 6-12 hours. x x BLOCK II (27 hours) COUN 6361 Intro to Marr & Family Therapy (6310, 6327)* x I COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310)* x II COUN 6365 Practicum (Block 1 & w/ Program Approval)* x x COUN 6367 Foun of Comm & Agency Couns (6327, 6364)* x I COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301)* x II COUN 6369 Counseling Internship I (6365)* x x I COUN 6370 Counseling Internship II (6370)* x x I Elective See schedule below. Elective Comprehensive Exam (Block I)* x x Electives EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology I COUN 6344 School Counseling & Guidance (6310)* x COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327)* xo IIe COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327)* xe IIo COUN 6349 Child and Adolescent Coun (6328)* x II COUN 6305 Group Dynamics These classes are COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance COUN Hour Seminars Other Approved Counseling-Related Electives COUN 7300 & 7301 Thesis OR Thesis (6 Hours) not regularly offered. Licensure Process After graduating with the M.Ed. in Counseling & Guidance Community Counseling Option, the student may register for the National Counselor Exam (NCE) and the Jurisprudence Exam. Upon successful completion of both exams, the student may apply for a temporary license. The applicant has two (2) opportunities to pass the NCE exam, after which s/he will be required to wait two (2) years OR take 9 graduate hours in counseling before being allowed to take the exam again. The NCE is administered by the National Board of Certified Counselors. Licensure requires a 3000-hour internship under the supervision of a board-approved LPC Supervisor. For more information, contact: Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors 1100 West 49 th St. Austin, TX (512) lpc@dshs.state.tx.us This information is current as of Summer, The requirements and number of hours for the M.Ed. Community Counseling Option and state licensure are subject to change. Changes will become effective whenever implemented by the proper authorities and will apply to both prospective and current students. The student is ultimately responsible for becoming familiar with all graduate and program requirements listed in the catalog s/he is following for the M.Ed. degree. Information regarding application procedures, fees, internship and examinations can be found at and Revised Spring 2013 * May not enroll in these courses without prerequisites listed in parentheses. May take concurrently with COUN Faculty approval of placement. e = even years; o = odd years

24 21 Counseling and Guidance Program Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies College of Education The University of Texas at Brownsville Steps for Practicum/Internship Enrollment The semester prior to field experience, students must apply for practicum/internship. All prerequisites must be completed prior to enrolling in practicum/internship. Block One Coursework- required for enrollment into Practicum COUN If you enrolled prior to Fall see practicum requirements according to POS/faculty advisor. Students must submit a separate application for each practicum or internship class. Complete the application form. These will be available on Blackboard, or may be obtained from the departmental administrative assistant, and or faculty advisor. For practicum, all students will be completing hours at the Community Counseling Clinic despite their designated track. However, school practicum students will be required to secure a school campus site to accrue the majority of their required hours. Community practicum students will be required to accrue all their hours at the Community Counseling Clinic. For internship students, if space allows a minimal number of hours will be completed at the Community Counseling Clinic, the majority of hours will need to be at a field site, you will need to contact an approved field site that will accept you as an intern. As you think about your placement, consider potential sites that offer the type of experience needed for your degree emphasis and career goals. A list of approved sites can be provided to you by the field experiences coordinator. Students returning for LPC requirements who are currently employed as a school counselor will be required to obtain at least 50% either at the UTB Community Counseling Clinic (if space allows) or another approved site. Obtain a copy of your program of study to accompany your application for practicum. If necessary, contact the Graduate Office at The program of study is only required for practicum application; however, if you change your program of study after submitting it for practicum, then a copy of your program of study is required for internship. Students who are applying for internship who are not current students and seeking to meet LPC requirements only are not required to submit a POS. Obtain a current copy of your transcript to accompany your application. An unofficial copy is sufficient. The transcript must accompany all applications. Consult with your faculty advisor for questions or assistance. You may also contact, Dr. Melissa Alvarado, Coordinator of Field Experiences, at or Melissa.alvarado@utb.edu, with questions or concerns not addressed by your faculty advisor.

25 22 Submit completed application, transcript, and program of study to the Coordinator of Field Experiences, the semester before you anticipate enrolling for the course and at least two weeks before the beginning of on-line course registration. Specific deadlines for applications are below. The Coordinator of Field Experiences will review and approve applications and provide notice to you of your approval. Enrollment Term Fall Semester Spring Semester Summer Semester (Internship-Community Track Only) Due Date April 1 st November 1 st April 1st You will receive an from the Coordinator of Field Experiences notifying you of your status, If approved the department administrative assistant will clear you and you will be permitted to enroll in the course. Students should enroll their designated track section. For Internship students after enrolling in the course, but before classes begin, contact your field site and site supervisor to begin the background security check (if required), drug screening (if required) or any preliminary training the site requires. Do not wait until the class begins to start these processes as this may jeopardize your ability to obtain the required number of hours required in your course. Schedule a start date with your site supervisor for the first week of the semester. Please be aware that practicum/internship classes can fill up quickly, and that most students who wish to do field experiences apply mid-way through the preceding semester. If you wish to be able to select your class, apply early. Class size is limited by CACREP standards. In addition, some sites require on-site training prior to beginning the field experience or only allow one or two students per semester. Further, some sites require criminal background checks. Such checks may take some time to complete. In some circumstances, criminal background checks may be arranged through the site. In others, it falls to the student to obtain the check. Approval to enroll is not a guarantee for enrollment. For Internship, the clinical setting must be approved by the field experiences coordinator and be appropriate to the student s emphasis. Thus, school counseling track students must obtain the majority of their hours in a school setting. Community counseling track students must obtain the majority of their hours in agencies, hospitals, practices, and other mental health facilities where community counseling services are provided. A list of possible approved practicum/internship sites is available from the Coordinator of Field Experiences. However, sites and the contact people at those sites can change suddenly, and the site list may not be up-to-date. Responsibility for locating and securing a site is the sole responsibility of the student, as is being sure the site and site supervisor is approved. The site list is provided only as a guide and not as a guarantee of approved site status.

26 23 Site and Site Supervisor Requirements Schools, agencies, and other organizations that are practicum and internship sites for UTB/TSC counseling students represent a spectrum of counseling delivery programs and services. What all must have in common is that they meet the requirements for appropriate sites as outlined by the Counseling and Guidance Program at UTB/TSC. These requirements are consistent with those of our accrediting body, the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), and include availability of necessary learning experiences. availability of appropriate supervision. agency/organization support of the student s placement, including allowing the site supervisor sufficient time for student supervision (minimum one hour per week). agency/organization non-discriminatory practices (i.e., hiring, acceptance of students or clients). site supervisor willingness to participate in including: meeting with practicum/internship instructor, supervisor training agency/organization agreement to inform student s practicum/internship instructor of any changes in the student s supervision as soon as possible. agency/organization provision of training and/or orientation designed to protect student safety as appropriate to site. site supervisors who have at least a Master s degree in counseling or a closely related field (i.e., psychology, social work), is licensed and certified in their field, and at least two years of pertinent professional experience. Students may not see clients if their site supervisors are absent unless there is another qualified supervisor on site. In the case of prolonged unavailability of the site supervisor, the student will likely need to seek a secondary site in order to complete direct hours. With permission and guidance from the university internship instructor, students may sometimes use their places of employment for internship placement. Students should be aware that internship is intended to broaden and strengthen both skills and experience; thus, responsibilities beyond those regularly practiced in the job setting must be obtained. In addition, the agency/organization must allow the student to obtain experiences appropriate for a masters-prepared employee. Students in the school counseling track may use the campuses at which they teach as their practicum site, with the approval of appropriate school district personnel, and designation of a site supervisor that meets the requirements outlined above, and the university instructor. However, they may not counsel their own students. Similarly, students working for CPS or Tropical MHMR may not counsel clients for whom they provide case management. This is an ethical issue related to dual relationships. Students who work at sites that provide case management should also be aware that case management is not counseling and will not count as such. Professionalism Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner. This includes but is not limited to following the field site s dress code, setting and maintaining a consistent schedule, being on time, providing adequate notice if unable to be on site as scheduled, maintaining a professional demeanor, treating clients and peers as individuals deserving of respect, and following all relevant ethical codes, including that of ACA. Students are required to complete their arrangements with their sites and their clients regardless of whether they have completed the required hours for the particular course in which they are enrolled.

27 24 Students who are asked to leave a site for unprofessional or unethical behavior may be dropped from the course or receive a failing grade. In addition, such an occurrence may trigger other departmental proceedings. Confidentiality Students are expected to maintain confidentiality of all information related to clients, as well as all information related to cases presented in practicum/internship classes. This is the student s responsibility regardless of procedures in place at the site. Students are responsible to know and follow legal and ethical confidentiality practices of the field placement site, as well as applicable codes of ethics. Knowledge of HIPAA and/or FERPA is expected. In addition, students shall not use any client identifying information in any practicum/internship documentation, including tapes. Students shall secure tapes and other client information that may be necessary for class in a way that is secure, legal, and ethical. Tapes, transcripts, case studies, or other client information used for class shall be destroyed in an appropriate manner (i.e., shredding) as soon as they have been evaluated unless it is the policy of the site to maintain and secure all tapes. Any questions regarding confidentiality must be discussed with the university instructor as well as the site supervisor. Professional Liability Coverage Students will need to obtain liability insurance to cover the practicum/internship experience. Verification of liability insurance is required the first day of class and before practicum/internship direct services begin. There are various companies that offer professional liability coverage; you can get this information from the Coordinator of Practicum/Internship. Also, student membership in the American Counseling Association includes acceptable professional liability coverage. Required Hours for Practicum/Internship 100 hour practicum (at least 40 direct hours) 600 hours internship (I and II- combined) (at least 240 direct hours) Speak to your instructor for specific examples of direct and indirect hours. Applications can be dropped off at EDBC or EPLS Department Office EDBC