Psychology

Upon successful completion of the Mental Health Specialist certificate, the student will be prepared to work in an entry level position in one or more of the following: Provide patient care and counseling on the inpatient unit; provide case management for non-complex client case caseload; provide group and individual counseling for emotional, drug, or other mental health problems in an outpatient program. The student will take academic courses to prepare him/her for an entry level position within behavioral health facility. The students will receive training in case management skills for a routine case load, provide group and individual counseling for emotional, drug, alcohol, and co-occurring issues; Students will also develop skill in analyzing crisis situations accurately and learn to take appropriate actions, learn to treatment plans, and to express ideas clearly and concisely both orally and written.

The Major in Psychology is designed to develop a strong base of knowledge and skills that will serve as a foundation for further study and/or pursuit of a career.

This program is designed to satisfy the lower division requirements for students planning to transfer to a California State University (CSU) with a major in psychology. The study of psychology involves acquiring knowledge about human and animal behavior as a basis for further study in advanced courses, as a basis for working with clients in a supervised therapy setting, and as a basis for being an informed citizen in our society. It is not just acquisition of knowledge but also an understanding of the variety of causes for human cognition, emotions, and behavior. An understanding of the causation of behavior leads to greater sensitivity and compassion toward the motives of other people and a more specific and accurate interpretation of their behavior. It also results in greater insight into and acceptance of the reasons for one's own behavior and as a possible vehicle for change. Course substitutions are not permitted for this degree.

Upon successful completion of the Substance Abuse Counselor certificate, the student demonstrates skills, knowledge, and training to counsel people in recovery, while under the supervision of licensed professionals. Skills learned include but are not limited to: an understanding of substance abuse counseling techniques; the impact of drugs on society; interviewing skills that maximize the information obtained from clients necessary for determining needs and services; assessment and evaluation; relapse prevention; the ability to prepare case plans, an understanding of the basic aims and processes involved in facilitating groups; an understanding of the basic process of individual counseling and Problem-solving, and an understanding of the basic principles and methods related to working with family systems. Students completing the course work are eligible to take the California state exam to become a certified substance abuse counselor. To apply to be a Certifiied Advanced Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (CAADAC), students will need to complete an additional 65 internship hours in an approved facility.