Winter, 2021

FT535

Wong

FT535: GROUP THERAPY. Alison G. Wong.

DESCRIPTION:

Group processes are key in understanding relational and family dynamics. This course is intended to focus on the experiential, theoretical and practical aspects of group therapy while focusing specifically on techniques. Focus will be given also to the developmental stages of group work as well as the different kinds of groups. Students who take the class will also have an experiential opportunity as they participate in a growth group.

cOURSE OBJECTIVES:

1. Have a practical understanding of the stages of group therapy.

2. Understand the different types of groups.

3. Practice correctly the role of a therapist in group processes.

4. Utilize multicultural, gender and faith contexts in group therapy.

5. View groups as an opportunity to process and experience growth and change.

6. Integrate a spiritual dimension in group therapy.

RELATIONSHIP TO SCHOOL AND SEMINARY LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Seminary Goals Related to Course:

Relevant Marriage and Family Learning Outcomes

1. An understanding of major systemic theories related to interpersonal functioning in family life.

2. An understanding of culturally diverse expressions of family norms.

3. An ability to conceptualize family functioning from within an ecosystemic framework

4. A personal commitment and rationale for serving families as an expression of their Christian vocation

5. An ability to articulate core theological issues related to family theory and intervention

Relevant SOP Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate the ability to provide excellent preventative and or transformational mental health services [to church and community]

2. Graduates, in their scholarly and clinical work, will be equipped to apply the insights of Christian theology along with the knowledge and techniques of the social and behavioral sciences.

3. Graduates will demonstrate an understanding of the concepts and attitudes necessary to serve effectively in diverse communities locally and globally.

Relevant FTS Learning Outcomes

1. Graduates will be aware of and critically engage ecclesial, societal, and global issues from Christian theological perspectives and demonstrate the ability to make informed choices toward positive change.

2. Graduates will demonstrate the ability to identify critical issues of diversity and make appropriate responses.

3. Graduates will be able to pursue careers consistent with their education.

COURSE FORMAT:

This 2 unit OR 5 unit course (depending on registration from the student) will meet once a week (approx. 1.5 hours per session) for ten weeks during winter quarter. The class will combine recorded video lectures, readings, group experience, quizzes, and written assignments. In order to earn 5 units of credit, the student must complete additional reading, a group experience outside of class, and a 20 page clinical research paper.

REQUIRED READING:

2 Units

Corey, G. (2016). Theory and Practice of Group Counseling (9th ed.). Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole. ISBN: 1305088018. $157.50 (new)

5 Units Additional Reading

Yalom, I. D., & Leszcz, M. (2005) The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy (8^th ed.). New York: Basic Books, Inc. 0465092845. $48.36.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Jacobs, E. E., Schimmel, C. J., Masson, R. L. & Harvill, R. L. (2016). Group counseling: Strategies and skills (6^th ed.). Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole. ISBN: 9871305087309. $199.95.

ASSIGNMENTS:

2 Units

Completion of required reading, two written assignments, and a final exam will determine the course grade.

Additional assignments for 5 Units

Completion of additional 350 pages of reading (determined by the professor), group participation and a 20 page research paper.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:

1. Meets MSMFT requirement in family therapy.

2. Meets AAMFT core competency domains 2.2; 3.1; 4.1; 4.2.

3. Meets BPC Sections 4980.36(d)(1)(A); 4980.36(d)(2)(A) for the State of California.

FINAL EXAM:

Yes.