Client-Centered Psychotherapy II

Undergraduate / Graduate

Client-Centered Psychotherapy II will deepen students' understanding of client-centered theory. This course will focus on its practical application for specific clinical topics and contexts, including trauma, concerns related to neurodivergence, couples and group work, medical and other diagnostic settings, etc. Through demonstrations, empathy labs and recordings, and in class discussion, students will get space and time to practice, consult and explore direct clinical practice. This course will facilitate an exploration of various critiques of the diagnostic model of mental health and the prevailing medical model of "specific treatment for specific illness," while also exploring ways to minimize professional authority in the therapeutic relationship and to create an environment in which clients can liberate themselves from internalized familial or societally defined "conditions of worth." This class will give students tools to develop a personal person-centered orientation and to embody a client-centered therapy practice. Please note that 49450 is not a prerequisite. If you are new to client-centered therapy there will be a review of introductory themes and instruction.