Skagit Valley College

Catalog Course Search Details

This course has been changed from the previous catalog, the changed field(s) are highlighted in red:

 Course Title:   Introduction to Counseling

 Title Abbreviation:   INTRO TO COUNSELING

 Department:    HSERV

 Course #:    203

 Credits:    5

 Variable:     No

 IUs:    5

 CIP:    511508

 EPC:    424

 REV:    2019


 Course Description  

Historical perspectives, theory and fundamentals of counseling therapies as related to Human Services agency work. Introduction to evidenced-based and Best Practices models. Development of basic techniques and critical thinking skills appropriate for mental health, chemical dependency and rehabilitation counseling.

 Prerequisite  

Prerequisite: HSERV 101 or instructor permission

Additional Course Details

Contact Hours (based on 11 week quarter)

Lecture: 55

Lab: 0

Other: 0

Systems: 0

Clinical: 0


Intent: Distribution Requirement(s) Status:  

Vocational Preparatory Required for ATA degree  

Equivalencies At Other Institutions

Other Institution Equivalencies Table
Institution Course # Remarks
N/A

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, the student will be able to:

  1. Explore the qualities of an effective counselor.
  2. Be familiar with several important theoretical approaches to counseling and the historical development of the counseling profession.
  3. Evaluate clinical evidence supporting various therapeutic interventions with a particular focus on research based �best practices.�
  4. Understand the basic components of assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
  5. Appreciate the need to be sensitive to a client�s culture and understand the importance of cultural and linguistic issues in the counseling process.
  6. Exhibit a compassionate appreciation for the multiple problems that impact clients in our communities.
  7. Review a number of major theoretical approaches to counseling.
  8. Become familiar with the core conditions of effective counseling.
  9. Learn the importance of strength-based approaches to counseling.
  10. Learn the importance of sleep, diet, and exercise in affecting health.
  11. Learn about mindfulness and meditation as a counseling strategy.

General Education Learning Values & Outcomes

Revised August 2008 and affects outlines for 2008 year 1 and later.

Course Contents

  1. Major theoretical approaches to counseling.
  2. Core conditions of effective counseling.
  3. Goal oriented helping.
  4. Strength-based approaches to counseling.
  5. Accurate empathy.
  6. Genuineness.
  7. Respect.
  8. Sleep, diet, and exercise as they affect health.
  9. Mindfulness and meditation as a counseling strategy.
  10. Pluralistic perspective into therapeutic relationship.