CN 738 - Group Therapy

Semester Hours: 3
This course will focus on the theory, principles, and practice of group therapy. Beyond reading, lecture, and discussion, this course involves a significant experiential component. Class members will participate in an actual therapy group so that the concepts and practice of group therapy will be illuminated in the here-and-now. Therapeutic factors, interpersonal learning, and group cohesiveness will provide the foundation for understanding the role of the group counselor in selecting clients for participation, and creating, preparing, and leading the group. Additional topics which will be considered are the stages of the group, the tasks and roles of the clients, outcome research regarding the mechanism of change in groups, and the effectiveness of group therapy. Specialty groups and issues concerning specific populations (e.g., adults, children, mandated participants) and ethical issues as they relate to working in groups will be explored.

Pre-requisites: CN 724 - Counseling Methods and Ethics.