CEFS 601 Course Syllabus

CEFS 601 Course Syllabus

CEFS 601: Marriage and Family Counseling I

Introduction

Marriage and family relationships are foundational to society, yet they often face significant challenges. CEFS 601: Marriage and Family Counseling I is a graduate-level course designed to equip students with essential theories, skills, and interventions for effective counseling in these contexts. This course is particularly beneficial for aspiring counselors, therapists, and professionals seeking to understand and support couples and families through various life challenges.

Course Overview

CEFS 601 provides a comprehensive introduction to marriage and family counseling by integrating biblical, theoretical, and practical frameworks. Students explore foundational counseling theories, therapeutic models, and assessment techniques that promote healthy relationships. The course also emphasizes ethical considerations, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based interventions in family counseling.

Key Learning Objectives

By the end of CEFS 601, students will:

• Understand foundational theories of marriage and family therapy.
• Develop essential counseling techniques applicable to family dynamics.
• Identify common challenges in marriages and families, including communication breakdowns, conflict resolution, and mental health concerns.
• Learn assessment tools to evaluate relational and psychological issues.
• Integrate faith-based principles with counseling strategies to offer holistic support.
• Apply ethical guidelines and best practices in professional counseling settings.

Core Topics Covered

The course covers a wide range of topics essential for marriage and family counseling, including:

1. Introduction to Marriage and Family Counseling

• Historical development of the field
• The role of family systems in therapy
• Biblical perspectives on marriage and family

2. Theoretical Foundations

• Bowenian Family Therapy
• Structural Family Therapy
• Cognitive-Behavioral Family Therapy (CBFT)
• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
• Narrative Therapy

3. Assessment and Diagnosis

• Family genograms and ecomaps
• Communication patterns and conflict styles
• Common psychological disorders affecting couples and families

4. Counseling Techniques and Interventions

• Active listening and empathy-building skills
• Solution-focused interventions
• Conflict resolution strategies
• Parenting and co-parenting support techniques

5. Ethical and Cultural Considerations

• Professional ethical guidelines (ACA & AACC codes of ethics)
• Addressing cultural and religious diversity in counseling
• Maintaining confidentiality in family sessions

6. Faith Integration in Counseling

• Applying biblical principles to counseling approaches
• The role of prayer and spiritual guidance in family therapy
• Ethical concerns in integrating faith and professional counseling

Practical Applications

CEFS 601 is structured to include case studies, role-playing exercises, and real-world scenarios to enhance students’ practical skills. Students engage in mock counseling sessions to develop confidence in applying theories and techniques. Additionally, the course often requires research papers, group discussions, and reflective journaling to deepen comprehension and self-awareness.

Career Relevance

Graduates of CEFS 601 can pursue careers in:

• Professional Counseling – Working with couples and families in private practice or clinical settings.
• Church-Based Counseling – Providing faith-based guidance within religious organizations.
• Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) – Specializing in relational therapy for couples and families.
• School Counseling – Assisting children and parents in managing academic and family challenges.
• Social Work and Community Services – Supporting families through crisis intervention and social services.

Conclusion

CEFS 601: Marriage and Family Counseling I is an essential course for those seeking to impact relationships positively. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge, ethical considerations, and hands-on practice, students develop the skills necessary to support and strengthen families in both clinical and faith-based settings. Whether pursuing a career in counseling or simply seeking to enhance relational wisdom, this course offers valuable insights that can transform lives.

CEFS 601 Course Syllabus