Course description

Human Development and Experiences

Course Description:

This course introduces counselors to common factors that contextualize counseling families, couples, and individuals. Theory and application are explored to help counselors better understand the dynamics of life as it is experienced. Learners will explore how a person develops over time and the psychological implications of development. Students will also be tasked with examining sexuality and culture as it relates to behavior and norms. Trauma is another area of examination that counselors will carefully seek to understand within the human experience. This course prepares the counselor for the contextual and unique needs that future clients will present.

Human Development and Experiences

This course provides an in-depth exploration of human development and the profound impact of life experiences on individuals and families. The curriculum is divided into two key sections: Development, which examines foundational theories and processes shaping human growth, and Experiences, which focuses on understanding and addressing the psychological and emotional effects of significant life events.

In the Development section, students will explore key theories, including psychosocial and cognitive development, attachment, personality, motivation, and the role of emotions in brain function. This section equips participants with a comprehensive understanding of the stages and factors influencing human growth and behavior.

The Experiences section delves into critical real-life challenges such as sexual trauma, family and domestic violence, military life and its impact on families, grief, suicide, anxiety, and depression. Each topic is addressed with sensitivity and depth, focusing on the psychological, emotional, and relational effects of these experiences.

Through lectures, case studies, and practical exercises, participants will gain a deeper understanding of human development across the lifespan and learn practical strategies to support individuals navigating life’s challenges. This course is ideal for counselors, therapists, ministry leaders, and caregivers seeking to deepen their knowledge of human behavior and experience.

Development

Explore the foundational theories and processes shaping human growth, behavior, and emotion.

Psychosocial Theory of Development: Understand Erik Erikson’s framework for psychosocial development and its application across the lifespan.
Cognitive Theory of Development: Explore Jean Piaget’s stages of cognitive development and their impact on learning and thinking.
Attachment: Examine the role of attachment in early childhood and its long-term effects on relationships and emotional health.
Personality: Analyze key personality theories and the factors contributing to individual differences.
Motivation: Understand what drives human behavior, including intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.
Emotions and the Brain: Investigate how emotions are processed in the brain and their role in behavior and decision-making.

Experiences

Gain insight into the psychological and emotional impact of life’s most challenging events and experiences.

Sexual Trauma: Explore the short- and long-term effects of sexual trauma, including strategies for trauma-informed care.
Family and Domestic Violence: Understand the dynamics of domestic violence and its impact on individuals and families.
Military and Military Families: Examine the unique stressors faced by military personnel and their families, including deployment and reintegration.
Grief: Learn about the stages of grief, cultural considerations, and ways to support individuals coping with loss.
Suicide and Self-Harm: Analyze the causes, risk factors, and interventions for addressing suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.
Anxiety: Understand the various forms of anxiety, their symptoms, and evidence-based interventions.
Depression: Explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches for depression, with a focus on holistic care.

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