This course will present counseling approaches that effectively address crises. The course will examine the impact of trauma and crisis and potential neurobiological responses. The students will gain knowledge and skills useful in assessing and intervening in crisis and explore the application of these skills in addressing specific crisis situations such as; suicide, homicide, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, natural disasters and terrorism. Students will examine the implications for assessment and intervention in the midst of a crisis and learn self-care strategies.
Purpose:
The purpose of this course is to prepare you for dealing with the inevitable crisis situations you will encounter as a counselor. We will spend time reflecting on how people deal with crises, exploring your own crisis experiences, and starting to develop your skills in crisis intervention. You will also examine some of the relevant research on crises, resolution, and resilience. However, your major focus throughout the course will be on learning the practical skills of helping people in crisis.
You may find this course to be emotionally challenging. You will have to think about painful experiences, face some difficult issues, examine your own strengths and vulnerabilities, and try out new ways of helping others. All of us have been through crises ourselves, but if you currently are in a crisis situation, you should carefully consider if you are able right now to handle the extra challenges of this course. If at any time you find yourself struggling emotionally, please alert the professor. As a professional counselor, it is very important to self-monitor in all situations but specifically when addressing crisis situations.
- Faculty: Carlie Zervan