Description

This course is intended to provide knowledge of basic theory and research concerning child therapy. Students will become well versed in empirically based treatments for child and adolescent mental health. We will address the limitations of existing research on treatment efficacy and effectiveness. Students will become familiar with a range of therapeutic approaches, including play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Learning Objectives

This course is intended to provide knowledge of the basic theory and research concerning child therapy as well as practical information regarding delivery of effective child treatment.  We will focus on interventions that have a strong theoretical basis and that have received solid empirical support.  We will consider how to adhere to treatment methodologies with careful attention to diagnostic processes, while being cognizant of when and how to use materials flexibly in order to meet individual client needs. 

• Learn how to synthesize initial background information with intake interviews to create a treatment plan for child mental health disorders
• Gain skill in applying behavioral modification principles used in treatment planning and execution
• Gain knowledge of empirically supported treatments for a range of childhood mental health disorders
• Gain skill in applying cognitive and behavioral techniques to augment individual therapy with children and adolescents
• Gain skill in critically evaluating research that underlies specific treatment approaches
• Learn techniques for modification of therapeutic protocols to accommodate diverse patterns among presenting child clients
• Develop skill in summarizing and teaching regarding particular mental health interventions for youth