Marital, Couple, Family Counseling/Therapy

Specialization Goals

1. To understand the history and development of marital, couple, and family counseling/therapy as a specialization within the counseling profession;

2. To appreciate the specific role and function of the marital, couple, and family counselor/therapist in the helping professions;

3. To facilitate an understanding of the influences of culture, family life cycle, diversity, and societal trends on the practice of marital, couple, and family counseling/therapy;

4. To assist students in developing a systemic perspective about client behaviors and the processes of problem-formation, problem-maintenance, and problem-resolution;

5. To help students identify and understand the major theoretical and practice models in the area of marital, couple, and family counseling/therapy;

6. To facilitate students’ development of marital, couple, and family counseling/therapy interviewing, assessment, and intervention skills; and

7. To increase awareness of the role of wellness, prevention, and relationship enhancement programs in the practice of marital, couple, and family counseling/therapy.