Psychology

Family of Origin Systems
This introduction of a family of origin systems perspective provides a basic interpretive framework to understand and address issues of human development in the context of multigenerational family dynamics. Students examine their own personal and professional development in terms of family history, ethnicity, relationships and conflicts. This course is the first in a two-quarter sequence, and is a prerequisite for the second course — Multicultural Perspectives.

Theories and Practice of Family Therapy I
This is the first part of a two-quarter sequence. Major theories of child, couple and family therapy and the different therapeutic practices associated with them are introduced. Students are encouraged to explore and experiment with these different approaches. There also is discussion of the history and development of the field of child, couple and family therapy.

Theories and Practice of Family Therapy II
This is the second part of a two-quarter sequence that examines different approaches to the theory and practice of child, couple and family therapy. Students continue to explore these approaches as well as experiment with various levels of clinical treatment (individual, couple, family and extended family). Professional practice issues also are addressed. Note that this course is required for all students in the Child, Couple and Family Therapy Program and must be taken immediately following the completion of Theories and Practice of Family Therapy I.

Human Development in the Family Life Cycle
The focus of this class is on basic developmental tasks of individuals throughout the lifespan, as well as how these tasks impact, and are impacted by, the developmental cycles of the family of origin and family of choice. This course explores how individual and family development is affected by interpersonal, interactional and cultural components. This course also examines how the family life cycle is impacted by a number of stressors common to contemporary American families.

Applied Couple Therapy
This is an integrated systems perspective for conducting couple therapy. Developmental, interactional and multicultural aspects of assessment and intervention are combined into a working model of couple therapy. Emphasis is on application of this model and the development of clinical skills in working with couples, including defining relevant problems, establishing the therapeutic contract, implementing treatment strategies and homework, and facilitating closure and follow-up to treatment.

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