600 Division - Psychological Studies
These courses seek to provide students with the methods and conclusions of psychology that may be integrated into an effective ministry of Biblical counseling. Counseling students learn the necessary skills for counseling and interpersonal relationships. Areas of conflict between secular psychology and the Bible are discussed. Students are encouraged to integrate truth from the discipline of psychology into a comprehensive, biblical theory and practice of counseling.
CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY
601 Abnormal Psychology
Focuses on understanding the basic processes and distinguishing features among the major categories of mental disorders, and becoming familiar with standard diagnostic categories and systems. 3 hours
602 Statistical Methods
Introduction to the standard parametric and nonparametric statistical methods used in conducting psychological research, including comparisons and tests of association, correlation, and regression. 3 hours
603 Systems of Psychotherapy
An introduction to the major theorists and approaches to psychotherapy. Critical appraisal of theories will be conducted, with special consideration of issues from a Christian perspective. 2 hours
604 Intellectual and Cognitive Assessment
An introduction to individualized assessment of intellectual and cognitive aptitudes and abilities and preliminary screening for neurological dysfunction. 3 hours
606 Personality Assessment
Introduces the basic statistical concepts of measurement and of objective and projective personality assessment. Test administration, scoring, and interpretation, and preparation of written reports of test results are covered. 3 hours
607 Substance Abuse
A survey of the literature on substance abuse and chemical dependency. Emphasis is placed on psychological assessment and intervention for persons with substance abuse disorders. 2 hours
DEVELOPMENT AND HUMAN RELATIONS
611 Group Theory & Dynamics
Theory and application of small group practices in guidance and counseling; laboratory practice in selection of participants, leadership, and interaction methods; and problem solving and evaluation. 3 hours
612 Human Development
A comprehensive overview of psychological development throughout the human life span. This course focuses on the theory and research of human psychological development from conception through old age, including personality, social, intellectual, and moral development. The examination of major psychological issues related to childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and aging will provide the theoretical foundation for understanding human development. 3 hours
613 Personality Theory
Focuses on the major theories of personality and their authors. Seeks to provide an understanding of the basic principles of personality development, structure, dynamics, and process. Major research on personality will be reviewed. Comparisons with scriptural data and theological principles will be drawn. 2 hours
615 Social Psychology
An overview of the major theories, concepts, and research topics in social psychology. The social aspects of the individual’s behavior are studied, with special reference to the role of the church in shaping behavior. 2 hours
616 Marriage and Family Dynamics
The professional literature is examined as it relates to both normal and dysfunctional marriage and family patterns. Assessment of family strengths and problems and strategies for counseling are emphasized. 2 hours
ETHICS AND THEOLOGY
621 Professional Ethics
Examination of the American Psychological Association’s Ethical Standards for Psychologists, state laws regarding the practice of psychology, related ethical and practical considerations involved in qualifying for licensing, and establishing and conducting a professional practice. 2 hours
622 Integration of Psychology and Theology
Basic approaches to relating biblical and theological principles to the systems of psychology. Special attention will be given to the philosophical and practical issues involved in the process of integration. 2 hours
CLINICAL PRACTICA AND THESIS
631 Clinical Pre-Practicum
Prepares the student to begin the practicum sequence through training in interpersonal communication and empathy using role-play techniques with video feedback. 2 hours
632 Clinical Practicum
Stresses practical training in assessment, diagnosis, and counseling through practice in a variety of settings under direct supervision. This course is repeatable and must be taken a minimum of three times. 2 hours
636 Research Methods and Critique
This course consists of instruction in the process of collecting, organizing and developing information towards the goal of writing a thesis. The course provides a basis for writing a thesis prospectus to give direction towards the completion of the thesis. 3 hours