RCP/L 503: Foundations of the Rehabilitation Counseling Profession
This course is an introduction to the field of rehabilitation, independent living and the role of the rehabilitation counselor. It provides an overview of the historical, legislative and philosophical forces that shaped the field of rehabilitation. Special emphasis will be on the civil rights movement for individuals with disabilities, the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and evolving disability policy in the U.S. Historical and present day societal attitudes and values toward individuals with disabilities will also be examined. 3 credits
RCP/L 510: Introduction to Medical Rehabilitation
This course includes a brief review of the human anatomy and physiology, and a review of the major medical/physical disabilities and chronic illnesses that result in significant disabling conditions and impairments. It provides students with an understanding of the various medical specialties, medical terminology and skills in effectively utilizing medical consultation in the rehabilitation workplace. Students will have an opportunity to learn about the social, educational and vocational implications of chronic illness and physical disability. The health care system, disability benefits and resources will also be addressed in this course. Prerequisite: Undergraduate level Anatomy and Physiology is recommended but not required; 3 credits
RCP/L 512: Occupational Analysis, Career Development Theory & Job Placement Strategies
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the world of work for rehabilitation counselors. Students become familiar with various forms of occupational data, information, and resources and their utilization in rehabilitation. Topics covered will include job classification systems, such as O*NET and the DOT, job analysis, and labor market surveys. Students will also become familiar with the major career development theories and their relevance to the vocational rehabilitation process. A variety of job placement support services and strategies will also be addressed, along with major federal and state legislation related to the employment of individuals with disabilities. 3 credits
RCP/L 530: Introduction to Counseling Theory, Practice, and the Profession
This course examines the fundamental principles and techniques of the major counseling theories, including Person‐centered, Cognitive‐Behavioral, Gestalt, Reality, Psychoanalytic, and Behavior and their applicability to the role of the rehabilitation counselor. Students will have an opportunity to develop and practice fundamental counseling skills. Students will also examine common ethical issues that arise in the counseling relationship and the nature and importance of supervision in counseling. 3 credits
RECOMMENDED ELECTIVE Course Descriptions
RCP/L 631: Cultural Responsiveness in Counseling
This course promotes knowledge and understanding of the role of culture in counseling. Cultural influences will be considered as representing a wide range of diversity issues including ethnicity, race, religion, age, gender, geography and sexuality. Students will examine their personal experiences, biases, attitudes, values and beliefs about groups representing diversity. Focus is placed on the development of cultural competencies to ensure effective counseling services to all clients with compassion and sensitivity while valuing cultural backgrounds. 3 credits