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Table of Contents

I. Preface............................................................................................................................... 1

II. Mission .............................................................................................................................. 2

III. Overview of Counseling and Guidance Program ............................................................. 2

IV. CACREP Accreditation information

V. Faculty/Staff ...................................................................................................................... 3

VI. Graduate School Survival Tips ......................................................................................... 4

VII. Study Tips ......................................................................................................................... 5

VIII. Course Description............................................................................................................ 7

IX. Initial Sequence of Courses ............................................................................................ 11

X. Students Beginning Prior to Fall 2010 ............................................................................ 11

XI. Program of Study ............................................................................................................ 12

XII. School Counselor & Community Counseling Comparison ............................................ 18

XIII. Steps for Practicum Internship Enrollment ..................................................................... 21

XIV. Site and Site Supervision Requirements ......................................................................... 23

XV. Professionalism ............................................................................................................... 23

XVI. Confidentiality ................................................................................................................ 24

XVII. Professional Liability Coverage ...................................................................................... 24

XVIII. Required Hours for Practicum Internship ....................................................................... 24

XIX. Community Counseling Clinic ....................................................................................... 25

XX. Counseling and Guidance Program Orientation Requirement4

XXI. Faculty Seminar Requirement......................................................................................... 25

XXII. Reading List Requirement .............................................................................................. 25

XXIII. Oral Examination ............................................................................................................ 26

XXIV. Comprehensive Examination .......................................................................................... 26

XXV. TExES School Professional School Counselor Exam

XXVI. Examination Requirements for LPC

XXVII. Thesis Option .................................................................................................................. 26

XXVIII. Counseling and Guidance Student Association .............................................................. 27

XXIX. Official Policy and Endorsement Statements ................................................................. 28

XXX. Helpful Websites ............................................................................................................. 30

XXXI. Appendix A: Reading List .............................................................................................. 31

XXXII. Appendix B: Application for Oral Exam & Evaluation.................................................. 33

XXXIII. Appendix C: ACA Code of Ethics ................................................................................. 37

XXXIV. Appendix F: Accreditation, Competencies and Standards ............................................. 39

1

Preface

The faculty and staff in the Counseling and Guidance Graduate Program at University of

Texas at Brownsville (UTB) welcome you.

This handbook is intended to provide master’s level students with information about the

Counseling and Guidance Program at The University of Texas at Brownsville. It is

intended to supplement, not substitute, the graduate catalog. Because graduate

procedures, course requirements, and prerequisites may change, students should be

familiar with the latest copy of the graduate catalog and meet with faculty when

necessary.

The requirements, number of hours, and class offerings for the M. Ed. Program,

Professional School Counselor Certification, and State licensure for Professional

Counselors are subject to change. Changes may apply to both prospective and current

students.

Although this handbook provides an overview of the policies, procedures, and

requirements of the Counseling and Guidance Program, the handbook is not intended to

be exhaustive. This catalog is a general information publication only. It is not intended to

nor does it contain all regulations that relate to students. Instead, students must seek

answers to questions from other sources, including, although not limited to, program

faculty, College of Education, professional associations, state credentialing agencies,

Graduate catalog, and the UTB Graduate Office. The primary responsibility for reading

and following correct policies and procedures remains with the student, not the faculty.

In addition, students are expected to abide and stay current with laws and ethical codes

set forth by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, the

American Counseling Association, the American School Counselor Association, and

other ethical standards relevant to their practice. Of particular importance is behavior

related to confidentiality in groups, with clients, and with cases discussed in class.

Students should take extra care with materials (DVD’s, tapes, files, reports, etc.) related

to clients. Violations of ethical standards are taken seriously by the program faculty and

may affect your ability to continue in the program.

2

Mission

The mission of the Counseling and Guidance Program is to prepare qualified counselors

who can work with diverse populations in a variety of settings. The Counseling and

Guidance Program focuses on personal growth, ethical behavior, lifelong learning,

multicultural competence, and the counselor’s responsibility in promoting social justice

and advocacy. The program teaches the development and application of critical thinking

and research skills applicable to the role of the professional counselor.

Accreditations

Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)

Texas Education Agency (TEA)

In addition the university holds other accreditations at the state and national level. For

more information refer to the graduate catalog.

Overview of Counseling and Guidance Program

The Counseling and Guidance master’s degree program offers two tracks: School

Counseling and Community Counseling.

School Counseling

The curriculum of the program is for the preparation of school counselors and meets the

criteria of the Texas State Board for Educator Certification for endorsement of a school

counselor. This curriculum option requires 54 hours of graduate study.

Community Counseling

The curriculum for Community Counseling in the Counseling and Guidance program is

designed to prepare individuals for direct entry into or advancement in counseling and

related positions in a variety of public or private counseling agencies. Typical community

programs or agencies include mental health centers, substance abuse programs, and

marriage and family counseling services. Students completing this track will be required

to take and pass the National Counselor Exam and the Texas Jurisprudence Exam before

applying for a temporary license. The temporary LPC license is required to begin a

supervised internship for state licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor. This

curriculum option requires 54 hours of graduate study.

The Counseling & Guidance Program provides additional coursework and experience

required for a temporary license from the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional

Counselors for students also graduating from the School Counseling track.

3

Counseling & Guidance Program Faculty/Staff

Dr. Alma G. Leal

Professor

Office: EDBC 1.110

Phone: (956)882-7672

Fax: (956)882-7593

E-mail: Alma.G.Leal@utb.edu

Dr. Olivia Rivas

Professor

Chair, Department of Educational

Psychology & Leadership Studies

Office: EDBC 2.208A

Phone: (956)882-7660

Fax: (956)882-7593

Dr. Lionel Cavazos Assistant Professor

Office: EDBC 1.108

Phone: (956) 882-5709

Fax: (956) 882-7593

E-mail: Lionel.cavazos@utb.edu

Ms. Jackie Trujillo Department Secretary II

Office: EDBC 2.208

Phone: (956) 882-7678

Fax: (956) 882-7593

E-mail: Jackie.Trujillo@utb.edu

E-mail: Olivia.Rivas@utb.edu

Ms. Michelle del Castillo-Davis

Dr. Selma Yznaga Community Counseling Clinic

Associate Professor Supervisor

Office: EDBC 1.108 Office: EDBC 1.210

Phone: (956) 882-7885 Phone: (956) 882-7898

Fax: (956)882-7593 Fax: (956) 882-7593

E-mail: Selma.Yznaga@utb.edu E-mail: Michelle.Davis@utb.edu

Dr. Melissa Alvarado Samantha Airhart

Assistant Professor Community Counseling Clinic

Office : EDBC 1.106 Supervisor

Phone : (956) 882-7880 Office: EDBC 1.210

Fax: (956) 882-7593 Phone: (956) 882-7898

E-mail: Melissa.Alvarado@utb.edu Fax: (956) 882-7593

Dr. Eunice Lerma

Assistant Professor

Office: EDBC 1.106

Phone: (956) 882-5850

Fax: (956) 882-7593

E-mail: Eunice.lerma@utb.edu

4

Graduate School Survival Tips

1) Pace yourself.

2) Stay organized.

a. Use a to-do list to free your mind for the work at hand.

b. Set up a filing system.

c. Use binders to organize class notes, with dividers to separate your notes

from assigned readings, handouts, and other materials.

3) Read the entire syllabus for each class.

4) Read the Graduate Catalog.

5) Enhance oral and written communications skills.

a. “What is written without effort is, in general, read without pleasure.”

- Samuel Johnson

b. “Present to inform, not to impress; if you inform, you will impress.”

- Fred Brooks

6) Become thoroughly familiar with the American Psychological Association (APA)

writing style.

7) Become informed of program requirements, deadlines, and other pertinent

information.

8) Ask for help early in the semester.

9) See you advisor regularly.

“The difference between people who exercise initiative and those who don’t is literally the

difference between night and day. I’m not talking about a 25 to 50 percent difference in

effectiveness; I’m talking about a 5000-plus percent difference, particularly if they are smart,

aware, and sensitive to others.”

Stephen R. Covey, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

5

Study Tips

Two frequent complaints of students are that they cannot concentrate while studying and

that they cannot remember the material, which they studied. There are many techniques

for improving your concentration and memory, although you will have to see which one

suits you best.

Plan what you are going to study in order of priority. If you spend a lot of time

reviewing information that is not vital, you will have trouble concentrating.

Break your study time up into manageable periods of time, and schedule a regular

break.

Deal with any anxieties. Personal or course-related anxiety is a common barrier to

successful concentration. Anxiety can be alleviated by various relaxation

techniques, including doing something, which normally calms you. Other anxiety:

you see task as a whole, rather than breaking it down into manageable portions

Avoid distractions. Places which are noisy, poorly lit or ventilated, or where you

normally do other things, are the wrong places to study. Pick a study spot, which

does not strain your eyes or body and make sure that all the supplies you need are

on hand. Tell your family you do not want to be disturbed.

Try some techniques to improve your ability to memorize. Organize and

summarize your notes into essential ideas; try to remember a difficult set of

concepts by turning the first letter of each word into an acronym.

Constant recitation and review of course material will improve your ability to

remember what you studied.

Switch subjects frequently. If you have a short attention span or are easily bored,

switch the subjects you are studying frequently. Having variety helps ward off

boredom.

Sleep well! If you do not get enough sleep, you will be less able to concentrate.

Most people need 7-9 hours of sleep to function normally.

6

Ask yourself questions. The key to maintaining focus is to stop periodically and

ask yourself questions, such as:

How does this relate to what I already know?

If this is true, what else follows?

What else could these facts mean?

What assumptions are being made?

What is the evidence for this?

Can I think of a good example of this?

What are the unique points of this?

Get the most from your reading.

-Check off (with a light pencil mark) each paragraph that you completely

understand. If you start to get lost in the reading, you will know exactly where--

just after the last check!

-If a section is too difficult for you, try reading in a whisper. Hearing what we

read is like reading it a second time.

-Similarly, it is good to stop regularly and summarize aloud what you have just

read.

-Try to link new information with the information you already know.

-Don’t forget to jot down key words and concepts.

7

Counseling (COUN)/Educational Psychology (EPSY)

Course Descriptions

COUN 6100-6105 Seminar in Counseling and Guidance

Through a series of six steps, develops skills related to helping professions. Primarily for

in-service training with counselors and teachers. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.

Lec 1, Cr 1

COUN 6301 Introduction to Research Methods in Counseling

This course is designed to assist professional counselors in evaluating and applying

research findings to a variety of practical situations in both mental health and school

settings. Students will be required to search for, explore, and critique current research in

the counseling field and complete an original, scholarly paper in the form of a research

proposal. Lec 3, Cr 3+

EPSY 6304 Foundations of Learning, Cognition and Human Development

Advanced study in the specialization of life-span development theories to human

behavior, learning and cognition. Includes specific models of cognition and relevant

research. This course includes the nature of needs of people at all developmental levels

from prenatal through old age. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6305 Group Dynamics

This course provides an overview of interpersonal process and the field of group

dynamics. It is designed to develop the individual’s ability to understand and integrate

various properties of group and interpersonal relationships into a personal and

professional framework. This course cannot substitute for the Group Counseling for the

Guidance & Counseling majors. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance and Counseling

Philosophy, principles, and current practices of pupil guidance. Pupils’ social, emotional,

intellectual and attitudinal dimensions are explored. Group guidance and individual

counseling techniques that apply in public schools are studied through lectures,

discussions and class participation. This course also introduces the student to the field of

counseling and guidance, as well as the major theories of counseling. The student will

develop an awareness of the guidance services and the role identity of the counselor.

Knowledge of the development of counseling and the present state of the profession will

be acquired. The students will understand the importance of personal qualifications and

professional preparation standards for counselors. Students will begin to evaluate the self

in relation to these qualifications and standards. The course also presents an overview of

the purposes and objectives of professional organizations. Also included in the course is

an in-depth study of ethical standards and legal issues pertaining to the counseling

profession. Lec 3, Cr 3

8

COUN 6313 Personal Growth

Discussions and practical application of group dynamics within a framework of group

therapy. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment I

This course explores the theory and techniques of administering, scoring, and interpreting

educational and psychological tests. Includes test selection, administration, and the

dynamics of test interpretation to enable the counselor to synthesize, integrate, and

evaluate appraisal data for use in guidance and counseling. In the last segment of the

course, students will practice taking, administering and interpreting a variety of

educational and psychological test. Prerequisite: COUN 6301. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy

This course is intended to introduce students to the major theories of counseling and

psychotherapy. Psychoanalytic, behavioral, cognitive, and humanistic-existential as well

as other counseling approaches will be discussed. Case studies, instructional videos, role-

playing and in-class exercises will be used to illustrate the principles of therapeutic

change. Prerequisite: COUN 6310, COUN 6313 and instructor’s consent. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy

Primary focus is on techniques and interviewing skills that come into play during

counseling sessions. In addition, this course addresses how these techniques are applied

to special topics and issues such as career counseling, group counseling, crisis counseling

and family counseling. Prerequisite: COUN 6310, COUN 6313 and instructor’s consent.

Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6340 Diagnosis and Treatment Planning in Counseling (pending approval)

The course will introduce students to the concepts of psychopathology and to major

diagnostic categories of the current DSM. Emphasis is placed on differential diagnosis

and understanding of how cultural, biological, social, and psychological factors are

necessary when developing a holistic and ethical model of assessment and treatment

planning. Prerequisites: COUN 6327, COUN 6328 Lec 3. Cr 3

EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology

The history and systems of adolescent psychology. Modern theories and current research

in learning and pupil motivation, especially in relation to various aspects of the

educational process. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling and Guidance

A course involving individual study in topics related to counseling and guidance.

Prerequisite: instructor’s consent. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6344 School Counseling and Guidance

Students will learn the essential roles and responsibilities of school counselors as they

relate to planning, implementation and evaluation of counseling and guidance programs.

9

Students learn research-based practices in school counseling. Ethical, legal, and

multicultural issues are emphasized. Prerequisite: COUN 6310. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6345 Career Counseling

A survey and analysis of the processes of assisting people to choose, prepare for, enter,

and progress in an occupation. The course trains leaders who can help people make

decisions and choices in planning a future and building a career. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling

This course will prepare individuals to counsel drug users, addicts and family members

using various preventive strategies and treatment regimes. Includes instruction in

outreach; patient education; therapeutic intervention methods; diagnostic procedures and

addiction symptomology. Prerequisite: COUN 6310, COUN 6327, 6328. Lec 3. Cr 3

COUN 6349 Child & Adolescent Counseling

This course is an introduction to counseling theory and technique applied to children and

adolescents. Appropriate developmental and cultural issues will be presented. The course

is designed to help students become more knowledgeable about current research and

approaches for working with this population. Prerequisite: COUN 6327, 6328.Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling

The course provides an overview of the psychology of crisis, and contemporary theory

and practice of crisis intervention. Special emphasis is given to basic features of

normative and extreme psychological reactions to crisis and trauma, and the process of

successful crisis resolution counselors and emergency first-responders actively promote.

Prerequisites: COUN 6327. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6361 Introduction to Marriage and Family Therapy

This course introduces students to the study of individual and family development, family

dynamics, interpersonal relationships and marriage and family systems. The course will

include selected theories, methods, and techniques of marriage and family therapy with

particular emphasis on multicultural, legal and ethical issues in the practice of marriage

and family counseling. Prerequisite: COUN 6327, 6328 or approval of instructor.

Lec 3, Cr.3

COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling

This course will provide an understanding of the characteristics and needs of culturally

diverse clients. The course will include issues related to ethnic groups, gender, family

systems, differing lifestyles, and the impact of social, political, and economic factors on

specific populations. Techniques for counseling culturally diverse populations will also

be covered. Prerequisite: COUN 6310 or consent of instructor. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6365 Counseling Practicum I

A study of selected counseling theories and supervised experience in individual

counseling. Required client contact hours are completed at the UTB Community

Counseling Clinic. Cases assigned off campus in schools and community agencies. This

10

course must be taken within last nine hours of program. Prerequisites: Block1 and

departmental approval. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6367 Foundations of Community and Agency Counseling

This course helps students gain knowledge and understanding of community counseling

issues including historical foundations, the role and function of community counselor,

and working with specific populations. The administration and function of community

counseling agencies are studied, with emphasis on the ethical issues confronting various

agencies. Prerequisites: COUN 6327, 6364. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6368 Group Counseling

This course develops an understanding of group processes, theories and techniques.

Demonstrated competence in this knowledge and in applying group procedures will be

required. Prerequisites: COUN 6327, 6328. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6369 Counseling Internship I

Supervised internship in counseling in an approved agency and/or school setting.

Prerequisites: COUN 6365 and departmental approval. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 6370 Counseling Internship II

Supervised internship in counseling in an approved agency and/or school setting.

Prerequisites: COUN 6369 and departmental approval. Lec 3, Cr 3

COUN 7300 & 7301 Thesis

Pass/Fail Grade. Prerequisite: Approval of graduate advisor.

Lec 3, Cr 3

11

Initial Sequence of Courses

Beginning students should initially enroll in COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance &

Counseling; COUN 6313 Personal Growth; or COUN 6301 Introduction to Research

Methods in Counseling.

Following these courses, COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy and COUN 6328

Techniques of Psychotherapy should follow. These are our core courses and are pre-

requisites to many other counseling courses.

Core Courses :

COUN 6310: Introduction to Guidance & Counseling

COUN 6301: Introduction to Research Methods in Counseling

COUN 6313: Personal Growth

COUN 6327: Theories of Psychotherapy

COUN 6328: Techniques of Psychotherapy

Students should be aware of any prerequisites when scheduling their courses.

STUDENTS BEGINNING PRIOR TO 2010

The Counseling & Guidance Program implemented changes in both the School

Counseling and Community Counseling tracks in Fall 2007 and again in Fall 2010.

Students who began the program prior to Fall 2010 should see their faculty advisor for

information related to the credit hours, addition of new courses, changes in course names

and prefixes and changes in course requirements. Eligibility for practicum/internship will

depend on when you first enrolled in the counseling and guidance program.

12

The University Of Texas at Brownsville

GRADUATE PROGRAM OF STUDY Instructions: This Program of Study must be prepared in consultation with the graduate advisor. It must reflect the degree

requirements listed in the Graduate Catalog. Any changes to the degree requirements as shown on the POS must have the written

approval and justification of the graduate advisor and the Department Chair prior to submission to the Office of Graduate Studies.

Information given must be complete.

The POS must be typed.

Name Student ID#

Last First MI

Address Street City State Zip

Home Phone Work/Cell Phone Email

Degree Program: M.Ed. Concentration: Counseling and Guidance

Track: Catalog Year:

1. Transfer Courses (if any).

If applicable, list the courses you are requesting to transfer (attach copy of transcript). Transfer courses must

meet guidelines set forth in the Graduate Catalog.

Transfer Course Institution UTB Equivalent

Course

Year Taken

2. Courses that have been or will be completed at UTB

If pursuing second master’s degree, maximum of nine hours from first master’s degree can be used toward

second master’s degree only if Masters was obtained at UTB. Course availability is subject to change

depending on student enrollment. All of block one courses must be completed prior to enrolling in practicum.

Students are advised not to enroll in more than six hours each semester if employed full time.

Course Prefix and Number Course Name Semester/Year

COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance and Counseling

COUN 6313 Personal Growth

COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling

EPSY 6304

Foundations of Learning, Cognition, and

Human Development

COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)

COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6327)

COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6328)

COUN 6345 Career Counseling

COUN 6344 School Counseling and Guidance (6310)

COUN 6361 Intro to Marr and Family Therapy(6310,6327)

COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310)

COUN 6365 Practicum (Block1 & w/Program Approval)

COUN 6349 Child & Adolescent Counseling (6328)

COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301)

COUN 6369 Counseling Internship I(6365)

COUN 6370 Counseling Internship II (6370)

COUN 6340 Diag & Tmt Plan in Couns (6328)

EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology

13

COUN 6367

Foun of Community and Agency Counseling

(6367,6364)

COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327)

COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327)

COUN 6305 Group Dynamics

COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance

COUN 6100-6105 1-Hour Seminars

Graduate Studies

UBCB 1.206; Brownsville, TX 78520

(956) 882-6552; utbgrad@utb.edu

14

3. Statement of your professional objectives for the program and certification(s) if any.

4. Experiences other than formal course work necessary or desired to achieve your objectives.

5. Indicate the method of final examination that will document that you have achieved your

professional objectives. For a final exiting examination, a capstone experience or a thesis defense,

give the anticipated semester and anticipated date of completion.

Semester/Year

Comprehensive Exam

Thesis

Orals

TExES

Students must complete all graduate work for a degree within seven years of the time of their first graduate

course registration. Graduate courses more than seven years old will not be accepted for credit toward a

degree program.

Print Name: _______________________ Signature: _______________________

Graduate Student Signature: Date

Faculty Advisor Approval: Date

Department Chair Approval: Date

Graduate Office Approval: Date

Xc: Student

Advisor

Department Chair

Graduate Office retains original.

Graduate Studies

UBCB 1.206; Brownsville, TX 78520

(956) 882-6552; utbgrad@utb.edu

15

The University Of Texas at Brownsville

GRADUATE PROGRAM OF STUDY Instructions: This Program of Study must be prepared in consultation with the graduate advisor. It must reflect the degree

requirements listed in the Graduate Catalog. Any changes to the degree requirements as shown on the POS must have the written

approval and justification of the graduate advisor and the Department Chair prior to submission to the Office of Graduate Studies.

Information given must be complete.

The POS must be typed.

Name Student ID#

Last First MI

Address Street City State Zip

Home Phone Work/Cell Phone Email

Degree Program: M.Ed. Concentration: Counseling and Guidance

Track: Catalog Year:

1. Transfer Courses (if any).

If applicable, list the courses you are requesting to transfer (attach copy of transcript). Transfer courses must

meet guidelines set forth in the Graduate Catalog.

Transfer Course Institution UTB Equivalent

Course

Year Taken

2. Courses that have been or will be completed at UTB

If pursuing second master’s degree, maximum of nine hours from first master’s degree can be used toward

second master’s degree only if Masters was obtained at UTB. Course availability is subject to change

depending on student enrollment. All of block one courses must be completed prior to enrolling in practicum.

Students are advised not to enroll in more than six hours each semester if employed full time.

Course Prefix and Number Course Name Semester/Year

COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance and Counseling

COUN 6313 Personal Growth

COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling

EPSY 6304

Foundations of Learning, Cognition, and

Human Development

COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)

COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6327)

COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6328)

COUN 6345 Career Counseling

COUN 6340 Diag & Tmt Plan in Couns (6328)

COUN 6361 Intro to Marr and Family Therapy(6310,6327)

COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310)

COUN 6365 Practicum (Block1 & w/Program Approval)

COUN 6367

Foun of Community and Agency Counseling

(6327,6364)

COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301)

COUN 6369 Counseling Internship I(6365)

COUN 6370 Counseling Internship II (6370)

EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology

16

COUN 6344 School Counseling & Guidance (6310)

COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327)

COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327)

COUN 6349 Child & Adolescent Coun (6328)

COUN 6305 Group Dynamics

COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance

COUN 6100-6105 1-Hour Seminars

Graduate Studies

UBCB 1.206; Brownsville, TX 78520

(956) 882-6552; utbgrad@utb.edu

17

3. Statement of your professional objectives for the program and certification(s) if any.

4. Experiences other than formal course work necessary or desired to achieve your objectives.

5. Indicate the method of final examination that will document that you have achieved your

professional objectives. For a final exiting examination, a capstone experience or a thesis defense,

give the anticipated semester and anticipated date of completion.

Semester/Year

Comprehensive Exam

Thesis

Orals

TExES

Students must complete all graduate work for a degree within seven years of the time of their first graduate

course registration. Graduate courses more than seven years old will not be accepted for credit toward a

degree program.

Print Name: _______________________ Signature: _______________________

Graduate Student Signature: Date

Faculty Advisor Approval: Date

Department Chair Approval: Date

Graduate Office Approval: Date

Xc: Student

Advisor

Department Chair

Graduate Office retains original.

Graduate Studies

UBCB 1.206; Brownsville, TX 78520

(956) 882-6552; utbgrad@utb.edu

18

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT BROWNSVILLE

COUNSELING & GUIDANCE PROGRAM Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies Department

Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling and Guidance

Professional School Counselor

Certification Option*

Thesis/Non-Thesis

54 Hours

Offered Community Counseling Option

Thesis/Non-Thesis

54 Hours

Fal

l

Spri

ng

Sum

mer

48 Hours of Required Courses 45 Hours of Required Courses

COUN 6310 Intro to Guidance & Counseling Ex COUN 6310 Intro to Guidance & Counseling

COUN 6313 Personal Growth I COUN 6313 Personal Growth

COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling II COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling

EPSY 6304 Human Growth and Development I, II EPSY 6304 Human Growth and Development

COUN 6345 Career Counseling I COUN 6345 Career Counseling

COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301)* II COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301)*

COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310)* COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310)*

COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)* COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)*

COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)* COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)*

COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6327,6328)* COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6327,6328)*

COUN 6361 Intro to Marriage & Fam Ther (6310, 6327)* COUN 6361 Intro to Marriage & Fam Ther (6310, 6327)*

COUN 6344 School Counseling and Guidance (6310)*

COUN 6349 Child & Adolescent Coun (6327, 6328)*

COUN 6340 Diag and Ttmt. Planning in Couns (6328)

COUN 6367 Foun of Comm & Agency Coun (6327, 6364)*

COUN 6365 Practicum (Last 12 Hours; 6327,6328)* COUN 6365 Practicum (Last 12 Hours; 6327, 6328)*

COUN 6369 Internship I (6365)* COUN 6369 Internship I (6365)*

COUN 6370 Internship II (6369)* COUN 6370 Internship II (6369)*

6 Hours of Electives OR 6 Hours of Thesis 6 Hours of Electives OR 6 Hours of Thesis

EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology I EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology

COUN 6340 Diag and Ttmt. Planning in Couns (6328)

COUN 6367 Foun of Comm & Agency Coun (6327, 6364)*

COUN 6349 Child & Adolescent Coun (6327, 6328)*

COUN 6344 School Counseling and Guidance (6310)*

COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327)* E COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327)*

COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327)* O COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327)*

COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance TBA COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance

COUN 6305 Group Dynamics TBA COUN 6305 Group Dynamics

COUN 6100-6105 1-Hour Seminars TBA COUN 6100-6105 1-Hour Seminars

EDCI 7300 & 7301 Thesis (advisor approval required) TBA EDCI 7300 & 7301 Thesis (advisor approval required)

Other Approved Electives Other Approved Electives

Oral Interview 6-12 Hours Oral Interview

Comprehensive Exam (Must pass prior to Practicum) Prior to Practicum Comprehensive Exam (Must pass prior to Practicum) TExES for Professional Counselor Certification Last Semester

See LPC Rules

Regarding

Requirements

NCE & Jurisprudence Exam. Must pass to apply for

3000 Hour Internship Under Approved LPC Supervisor

*Must be a certified teacher to enroll in this option.

*May not enroll in these courses without prerequisites listed in parenthesis. May be taken concurrently with COUN 6327. Separate applications are required for the oral interview, graduation, comprehensive examination, the Professional School Counselor

certificate and/or the licensure exam. Students are responsible for becoming familiar with the application processes and deadlines. Check

the graduate catalog and course schedule or contact the appropriate offices. This information is current as of Spring, 2010. The requirements, number of hours and class offerings for the M.Ed., Professional School

Counselor Certification and state licensure are subject to change. Changes will become effective whenever implemented by the proper

authorities and will apply to both prospective and current students. The student is ultimately responsible for becoming familiar with all graduate and program requirements listed in the catalog s/he is

following for the M.Ed. degree. Spring 2010

19

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT BROWNSVILLE

Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling and Guidance

School Counseling Option 54 Credit-Hour Program Students Entering Program Fall 2012 or After

BLOCK I (27 hours)

School Counselor

Certification Process

Students enrolling in the M.Ed. in Counseling

and Guidance with Professional School

Counselor Certification must prove that they are

certified teachers or are seeking/have alternative

teacher certification.

The Professional School Counselor Certificate

requires two (2) years of teaching experience.

Some school districts may require

additional years of teaching prior to employment

as a school counselor.

Professional School Counselor Certification

also requires that students pass the Texas

Examination of Educator Standards (TExES)

(formerly the ExCET) in school counseling.

This information is current as of Summer, 2011.

The requirements and number of hours for the

M.Ed., Professional School Counselor

Certification and state licensure are subject to

change. Changes will become effective whenever

implemented by the proper authorities and will apply

to both prospective and current students. The student

is ultimately responsible for becoming familiar with

all graduate, program, and certification requirements

listed in the catalog s/he is following for the M.Ed.

degree and on the State Board for Educator

Certification (SBEC)website.

Additional information regarding

Professional School Counseling can be found at

http://www.tea.state.tx.us/ and

http://www.sbec.state.tx.us

Licensure Option: School Counseling track students

wishing to complete the academic requirements of

the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional

Counselors toward licensure as an LPC (Licensed

Professional Counselor) should take COUN 6340:

Diagnosis and Treatment Planning in Counseling as

an elective.

Revised 1/2013

F S SUM

COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance & Counseling x x

COUN 6313 Personal Growth x x

COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling x x

EPSY 6304

Foun of Learning, Cognition and Human

Development x x I,II

COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)* x x

COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6327)* x x

COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6328)* x x

COUN 6345 Career Counseling x I

COUN 6344 School Counseling & Guidance (6310) x

Oral Examination must be completed between 6-12 hours. x x

BLOCK II (27 hours)

COUN 6361 Intro to Marr & Family Therapy (6310, 6327)* x I

COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310)* x II

COUN 6365 Practicum (Block I & w/ Program Approval)* x x

COUN 6349 Child and Adolescent Counseling (6328) x II

COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301)* x II

COUN 6369 Counseling Internship I (6365)* x x

COUN 6370 Counseling Internship II (6370)* x x

Elective See schedule

below. Elective

Comprehensive Exam (Block I)* x x

Electives

COUN 6340 Diag & Tmt Plan in Couns (6328)* x II

EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology I

COUN 6367 Foun of Community & Agency Counseling (6367,

6364)* x I

COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327)* xo IIe

COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327)* xe IIo

COUN 6305 Group Dynamics These classes are

not regularly

offered. COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance

COUN 6100-6105 1-Hour Seminars

Other Approved Counseling-Related Electives

OR

Thesis (6 Hours) COUN 7300 & 7301 Thesis

* May not enroll in these courses without prerequisites listed in parentheses.

May take concurrently with COUN 6327.

Faculty approval of placement.

e = even years; o = odd years

20

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT BROWNSVILLE

Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling and Guidance

Community Counseling Option 54 Credit-Hour Program Students Entering Program Fall 2011 or After

BLOCK I (27 hours)

Licensure Process

After graduating with the M.Ed. in Counseling &

Guidance Community Counseling Option, the student

may register for the National Counselor Exam

(NCE) and the Jurisprudence Exam. Upon

successful completion of both exams, the student

may apply for a temporary license.

The applicant has two (2) opportunities to pass the

NCE exam, after which s/he will be required to wait

two (2) years OR take 9 graduate hours in counseling

before being allowed to take the exam again. The

NCE is administered by the National Board of

Certified Counselors.

Licensure requires a 3000-hour internship under the

supervision of a board-approved LPC Supervisor.

For more information, contact:

Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional

Counselors

1100 West 49th

St.

Austin, TX 78756-3183

(512) 834-6658

lpc@dshs.state.tx.us

This information is current as of Summer, 2011. The

requirements and number of hours for the M.Ed.

Community Counseling Option and state licensure

are subject to change. Changes will become

effective whenever implemented by the proper

authorities and will apply to both prospective

and current students. The student is ultimately

responsible for becoming familiar with all graduate

and program requirements listed in the catalog s/he is

following for the M.Ed. degree.

Information regarding application procedures, fees,

internship and examinations can be found at

http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/hcqs/plc/lpc/lpc_def.htm

and http://www.nbcc.org

Revised Spring 2013

F S SUM

COUN 6310 Introduction to Guidance & Counseling x x

COUN 6313 Personal Growth x x

COUN 6301 Intro to Research Methods in Counseling x x

EPSY 6304

Foun of Learning, Cognition and Human

Development x x I,II

COUN 6327 Theories of Psychotherapy (6310, 6313)* x x

COUN 6328 Techniques of Psychotherapy (6327)* x x

COUN 6368 Group Counseling (6328)* x x

COUN 6345 Career Counseling x I

COUN 6340 Diag & Tmt Plan in Couns (6328)* x II

Oral Examination must be completed between 6-12 hours. x x

BLOCK II (27 hours)

COUN 6361 Intro to Marr & Family Therapy (6310, 6327)* x I

COUN 6364 Multicultural Counseling (6310)* x II

COUN 6365 Practicum (Block 1 & w/ Program Approval)* x x

COUN 6367 Foun of Comm & Agency Couns (6327, 6364)* x I

COUN 6314 Psycho-Educational Assessment (6301)* x II

COUN 6369 Counseling Internship I (6365)* x x I

COUN 6370 Counseling Internship II (6370)* x x I

Elective See schedule

below. Elective

Comprehensive Exam (Block I)* x x

Electives

EPSY 6341 Advanced Adolescent Psychology I

COUN 6344 School Counseling & Guidance (6310)* x

COUN 6347 Substance Abuse Counseling (6327)* xo IIe

COUN 6351 Crisis Counseling (6327)* xe IIo

COUN 6349 Child and Adolescent Coun (6328)* x II

COUN 6305 Group Dynamics These classes are not regularly

offered. COUN 6342 Topics in Counseling & Guidance

COUN 6100-6105 1-Hour Seminars

Other Approved Counseling-Related Electives

OR

Thesis (6 Hours) COUN 7300 & 7301 Thesis

* May not enroll in these courses without prerequisites listed in parentheses. May take concurrently with COUN 6327. Faculty approval of placement.

e = even years; o = odd years

21

Steps for Practicum/Internship Enrollment

The semester prior to field experience, students must apply for practicum/internship. All prerequisites must

be completed prior to enrolling in practicum/internship. Block One Coursework- required for enrollment

into Practicum COUN 6365. If you enrolled prior to Fall 2011- see practicum requirements according to

POS/faculty advisor. Students must submit a separate application for each practicum or internship class.

Complete the application form. These will be available on Blackboard, or may be obtained from the

departmental administrative assistant, and or faculty advisor.

For practicum, all students will be completing hours at the Community Counseling Clinic despite

their designated track. However, school practicum students will be required to secure a school

campus site to accrue the majority of their required hours. Community practicum students will be

required to accrue all their hours at the Community Counseling Clinic. For internship students, if

space allows a minimal number of hours will be completed at the Community Counseling Clinic, the

majority of hours will need to be at a field site, you will need to contact an approved field site that

will accept you as an intern. As you think about your placement, consider potential sites that offer

the type of experience needed for your degree emphasis and career goals. A list of approved sites can

be provided to you by the field experiences coordinator.

Students returning for LPC requirements who are currently employed as a school counselor will be

required to obtain at least 50% either at the UTB Community Counseling Clinic (if space allows) or

another approved site.

Obtain a copy of your program of study to accompany your application for practicum. If necessary,

contact the Graduate Office at 956-882-6552. The program of study is only required for practicum

application; however, if you change your program of study after submitting it for practicum, then a

copy of your program of study is required for internship. Students who are applying for internship

who are not current students and seeking to meet LPC requirements only are not required to submit a

POS.

Obtain a current copy of your transcript to accompany your application. An unofficial copy is

sufficient. The transcript must accompany all applications.

Consult with your faculty advisor for questions or assistance. You may also contact, Dr. Melissa

Alvarado, Coordinator of Field Experiences, at 956-882-7880 or Melissa.alvarado@utb.edu, with

questions or concerns not addressed by your faculty advisor.

Counseling and Guidance Program

Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies

College of Education

The University of Texas at Brownsville

22

Submit completed application, transcript, and program of study to the Coordinator of Field

Experiences, the semester before you anticipate enrolling for the course and at least two weeks

before the beginning of on-line course registration. Specific deadlines for applications are below.

The Coordinator of Field Experiences will review and approve applications and provide notice to

you of your approval.

Enrollment Term

Due Date

Fall Semester

April 1st

Spring Semester

November 1st

Summer Semester (Internship-Community Track

Only)

April 1st

You will receive an email from the Coordinator of Field Experiences notifying you of your status, If

approved the department administrative assistant will clear you and you will be permitted to enroll in

the course. Students should enroll their designated track section.

For Internship students after enrolling in the course, but before classes begin, contact your field site

and site supervisor to begin the background security check (if required), drug screening (if required)

or any preliminary training the site requires. Do not wait until the class begins to start these

processes as this may jeopardize your ability to obtain the required number of hours required in your

course. Schedule a start date with your site supervisor for the first week of the semester.

Please be aware that practicum/internship classes can fill up quickly, and that most students who wish to do

field experiences apply mid-way through the preceding semester. If you wish to be able to select your class,

apply early. Class size is limited by CACREP standards. In addition, some sites require on-site training prior

to beginning the field experience or only allow one or two students per semester. Further, some sites require

criminal background checks. Such checks may take some time to complete. In some circumstances, criminal

background checks may be arranged through the site. In others, it falls to the student to obtain the check.

Approval to enroll is not a guarantee for enrollment.

For Internship, the clinical setting must be approved by the field experiences coordinator and be

appropriate to the student’s emphasis. Thus, school counseling track students must obtain the majority of

their hours in a school setting. Community counseling track students must obtain the majority of their hours

in agencies, hospitals, practices, and other mental health facilities where community counseling services are

provided. A list of possible approved practicum/internship sites is available from the Coordinator of Field

Experiences. However, sites and the contact people at those sites can change suddenly, and the site list may

not be up-to-date. Responsibility for locating and securing a site is the sole responsibility of the student,

as is being sure the site and site supervisor is approved. The site list is provided only as a guide and not

as a guarantee of approved site status.

23

Site and Site Supervisor Requirements

Schools, agencies, and other organizations that are practicum and internship sites for UTB/TSC counseling

students represent a spectrum of counseling delivery programs and services. What all must have in common

is that they meet the requirements for appropriate sites as outlined by the Counseling and Guidance Program

at UTB/TSC. These requirements are consistent with those of our accrediting body, the Council for

Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), and include

availability of necessary learning experiences.

availability of appropriate supervision.

agency/organization support of the student’s placement, including allowing the site supervisor

sufficient time for student supervision (minimum one hour per week).

agency/organization non-discriminatory practices (i.e., hiring, acceptance of students

or clients).

site supervisor willingness to participate in including: meeting with practicum/internship instructor,

supervisor training

agency/organization agreement to inform student’s practicum/internship instructor of any changes in

the student’s supervision as soon as possible.

agency/organization provision of training and/or orientation designed to protect student safety as

appropriate to site.

site supervisors who have at least a Master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field (i.e.,

psychology, social work), is licensed and certified in their field, and at least two years of pertinent

professional experience. Students may not see clients if their site supervisors are absent unless there

is another qualified supervisor on site. In the case of prolonged unavailability of the site supervisor,

the student will likely need to seek a secondary site in order to complete direct hours.

With permission and guidance from the university internship instructor, students may sometimes use their

places of employment for internship placement. Students should be aware that internship is intended to

broaden and strengthen both skills and experience; thus, responsibilities beyond those regularly practiced in

the job setting must be obtained. In addition, the agency/organization must allow the student to obtain

experiences appropriate for a masters-prepared employee.

Students in the school counseling track may use the campuses at which they teach as their practicum site,

with the approval of appropriate school district personnel, and designation of a site supervisor that meets the

requirements outlined above, and the university instructor. However, they may not counsel their own

students. Similarly, students working for CPS or Tropical MHMR may not counsel clients for whom they

provide case management. This is an ethical issue related to dual relationships. Students who work at

sites that provide case management should also be aware that case management is not counseling and will

not count as such.

Professionalism

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner. This includes but is not limited to

following the field site’s dress code, setting and maintaining a consistent schedule, being on time, providing

adequate notice if unable to be on site as scheduled, maintaining a professional demeanor, treating clients

and peers as individuals deserving of respect, and following all relevant ethical codes, including that of

ACA. Students are required to complete their arrangements with their sites and their clients regardless of

whether they have completed the required hours for the particular course in which they are enrolled.

24

Students who are asked to leave a site for unprofessional or unethical behavior may be dropped from the

course or receive a failing grade. In addition, such an occurrence may trigger other departmental

proceedings.

Confidentiality

Students are expected to maintain confidentiality of all information related to clients, as well as all

information related to cases presented in practicum/internship classes. This is the student’s responsibility

regardless of procedures in place at the site. Students are responsible to know and follow legal and ethical

confidentiality practices of the field placement site, as well as applicable codes of ethics. Knowledge of

HIPAA and/or FERPA is expected. In addition, students shall not use any client identifying information in

any practicum/internship documentation, including tapes. Students shall secure tapes and other client

information that may be necessary for class in a way that is secure, legal, and ethical. Tapes, transcripts,

case studies, or other client information used for class shall be destroyed in an appropriate manner (i.e.,

shredding) as soon as they have been evaluated unless it is the policy of the site to maintain and secure all

tapes. Any questions regarding confidentiality must be discussed with the university instructor as well as the

site supervisor.

Professional Liability Coverage

Students will need to obtain liability insurance to cover the practicum/internship experience. Verification of

liability insurance is required the first day of class and before practicum/internship direct services begin.

There are various companies that offer professional liability coverage; you can get this information from the

Coordinator of Practicum/Internship. Also, student membership in the American Counseling Association

includes acceptable professional liability coverage.

Required Hours for Practicum/Internship

100 hour practicum (at least 40 direct hours)

600 hours internship (I and II- combined) (at least 240 direct hours)

Speak to your instructor for specific examples of direct and indirect hours.

Applications can be dropped off at EDBC 1.210 or EPLS Department Office EDBC 2.208.

25

Community Counseling Clinic

EDBC 1.210

The UTB/TSC Community Counseling Clinic was established to provide professional training for graduate

students while offering a wide range of counseling services to the local community. Services are provided

by practicum graduate students enrolled in the graduate Counseling and Guidance program under the

supervision of the Counseling and Guidance faculty members and the Clinical Specialist.

The Community Counseling Clinic is an integral part of the Counseling & Guidance Program. All practicum

and internship students will receive a significant portion of their clinical training at this setting. The

Community Counseling Clinic offers an important service to the community while also providing the

primary training site for Counseling & Guidance students.

Practicum and internship students will have the opportunity to work with individuals with a variety of issues

and concerns that will leave them well prepared to enter the field of counseling and guidance. Additionally,

students who have completed COUN 6361 Introduction to Marriage & Family Therapy will have the

opportunity to work with couples and families.

Students abide by Clinic policy and ethical standards set forth by the Texas State Board of Examiners of

Professional Counselors, the American Counseling Association, and other ethical standards relevant to their

practice. Breach of these ethical codes could result in a student’s dismissal from the program.

Counseling Program Student Orientation

Can be accessed through Black Board.

Faculty Seminar Requirement

Each semester seminars on topical issues in counseling and guidance will be presented by the program

faculty. Students are required to attend ONE of these seminars each semester. The Faculty Seminars are

intended to supplement classroom and applied learning experiences in the program within a more informal

atmosphere. Seminars also offer students the opportunity to explore important counseling topics and issues

in more depth that is not always possible within the semester timeframe for coursework. In addition,

students are able to learn more about the faculty’s current counseling and/or research interests. Students are

required to submit to each of their instructors a 1-2 page reflection paper on the seminar that they chose to

attend.

Reading List

As part of the Counseling & Guidance Program reading list requirement, students are required to read at

least 10 books that are foundational in the field of counseling and guidance before they complete the

program. Familiarity with them will strengthen understanding of the graduate studies in which students are

embarking and begin to form a basis for their own library of professional materials. These books are listed

in Appendix A. Reading one to two books a semester, including summers, is recommended. Reading list is

updated every semester. Please check with your instructor for updates.

26

Oral Examination

The oral examination is required if students have completed six graduate hours in the counseling and

guidance program and will be completing a total of 9-12 hours at the end of their current semester. This Examination is an evaluative and diagnostic activity conducted by program faculty to assess student work and progress in the program. Examination are held each Fall and Spring semester at times and locations announced in classes. After the Oral Examination, students will either be cleared to continue with the program or may need to complete further requirements and/or recommendations prescribed by the faculty. Students will not be allowed to enroll the following semester if they do not successfully complete the Oral Examination.

Comprehensive Examination

The Counseling & Guidance Program offers its Comprehensive Examinations during Fall & Spring

semesters. The purpose of the exam is to evaluate the student’s mastery of the requirements of the

Counseling & Guidance Program. Students are to take the exam prior to enrollment in practicum (COUN

6365). The application to sit for the Comprehensive Examination is submitted to the Graduate Office. For

more information, students are directed to the Graduate Catalog

(http://www.utb.edu/vpaa/graduate/Pages/Catalog.aspx

The result of the exam is one of the following:

a) Pass with recommendation that the student be cleared for graduation

b) Fail stipulating the conditions that must be met before the student is eligible to take the exam a

second time. The comprehensive exam cannot be taken more than twice. A review period of not less

than ninety (90) days nor more than one (1) year after the student is notified of the results of the first

examination is required before a second exam can be scheduled. Conditions for the second exam are

determined by Counseling & Guidance faculty.

c) Fail with recommendation that the student be dismissed from the program.

Although there is no “one way” to prepare for Comprehensive Exams, students are encouraged throughout

the program to keep textbooks, class papers and projects as possible resources. Additionally, forming study

groups the semester before the comprehensive exam is scheduled to take place can be a valuable process.

Thesis Option

Students may elect to write a master’s thesis which will require them to register for at least two semesters

(COUN 7300 and COUN 7301). These courses will satisfy the electives requirement. It is important to note

that students must continue to register for the thesis course until the process is complete. This may take

longer than two semesters. A faculty member from the Counseling and Guidance Program must agree to

serve as the thesis advisor before students can pursue this option. The thesis option is an opportunity for

students to strengthen their research and writing skills while composing a document that can be a significant

contribution to the area of counseling and guidance. The Graduate School webpage has a Thesis Guide that

includes the specific requirements and regulations for completing a thesis. You can find this information at

http://www.utb.edu/vpaa/graduate/Pages/GraduateThesis.aspx

27

The Counseling and Guidance Student Association

The Counseling & Guidance Student Association is dedicated to providing leadership, advocacy and

education to promote the growth and development of the counseling profession and those who are served by

the organization.

Article III

Purpose & Values

Section I. The purpose of the CGSA organization is as follows:

1. Professional Development: provides a collegial home for Community & School Counseling students.

Regular social events, community projects and special training seminars are scheduled by the student

officers.

2. Networking- Expanding Leadership Opportunities:

3. New Student Orientation: Introduce new students to the CGSA and the M.Ed. in Counseling & Guidance

Program along with the expectations, skills and knowledge that will encompass their studies.

4. Socializing: Assembling for common purposes to include enlightenment, growth and new perspectives

along with the empathy necessary to become a great counselor.

Section II. The values of the CGSA are respect, professionalism, advocacy and social justice in different

realms of unity and purpose, accountability, effective communication skills and knowledge in multicultural

competencies.

Article IV

Membership

Membership in CGSA shall consist of students enrolled in the Masters program in Counseling and

Guidance. The membership year begins in August and ends in July. Members may join at any time during

the membership year upon paying their respective dues; however, all yearly dues of $20.00 are payable

during the renewal period which is in August of every calendar year for each member regardless of

individual joining periods at other times during the year.

28

OFFICIAL POLICY STATEMENTS GRADUATE SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS (SAP)

Grade Point Average: The qualitative measure requires graduate students maintain a minimum

Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.000 for all attempted courses, including grades earned

for preparatory and/or transfer credits accepted by UTB. For more information on the SAP policy,

please visit http://www.utb.edu/em/fa/Pages/GraduateSAPPolicy.aspx

SCHOLASTIC DISHONESTY

Students who engage in scholastic dishonesty are subject to disciplinary penalties, including the possibility of failure in the course and expulsion from the University. Scholastic dishonesty includes but is not limited to cheating, plagiarism, collusion, submission for credit of any work or materials that are attributable in whole or in part to another person, taking an examination for another person, any act designed to give unfair advantage to a student, or the attempt to commit such acts. Since scholastic dishonesty harms the individual, all students and the integrity of the University, policies on scholastic dishonesty will be strictly enforced. (Board of Regents Rules and Regulations) All scholastic dishonesty incidents will be reported to the Dean of Students. Do not allow your peers to pressure you to cheat. Your grade, academic standing and personal reputation are at stake.

STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC RESPONSIBILITIES Students are expected to be diligent in their studies and attend class regularly and on time. Students are responsible for all class work and assignments. On recommendation of the instructor concerned and with the approval of the Dean, students may, at any time, be dropped from courses. This may result in a “W” or “F” on the student’s permanent record.

EMERGENCY POLICY STATEMENT

In compliance with the Emergency UTB/TSC Academic Continuity Program, academic courses, partially or entirely, will be made available on the MyUTBTSC Blackboard course management system. This allows faculty members and students to continue their teaching and learning via

MyUTBTSC Blackboard http://myutbtsc.blackboard.com, in case the university shuts down as a

result of a hurricane or any other natural disaster. The university will use MyUTBTSC Blackboard to post announcements notifying faculty members and students of their responsibilities as a hurricane approaches our region. If the university is forced to shut down, faculty will notify their course(s). To receive credit for a course, it is the student’s responsibility to complete all the requirements for that course. Failure to access course materials once reasonably possible can result in a reduction of your overall grade in the class. To facilitate the completion of class, most or all of the communication between students and the institution, the instructor, and fellow classmates will take place using the features in your MyUTBTSC Blackboard and UTB email system. Therefore, all students must use Scorpion Online to provide a current email address. Students may update their email address by following the link

29

titled “Validate your e-Mail Account” in MyUTBTSC Blackboard Portal. In the event of a disaster, that disrupts normal operations, all students and faculty must make every effort to access an internet-enabled computer as often as possible to continue the learning process.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)

Students with disabilities, including learning disabilities, who wish to request accommodations in this class should notify the Disability Services Office early in the semester so that the appropriate arrangements may be made. In accordance with federal law, a student requesting accommodations must provide documentation of his/her disability to the Disability Services counselor. For more information, visit Disability Services in the Lightner Center, call 956-882-7374 or e-mail steve.wilder@utb.edu.

30

Helpful Websites

The websites below are some important reference points that can give you important information regarding

the counseling profession. Ethical codes, particular association divisions, certification and licensure are

some topics that can be explored with these websites. This is NOT an exhaustive list, but only a starting

point for you of some of the more important sites. Please take some time to explore each site.

LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR (LPC) HOMEPAGE

The Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors

http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/plc/default.shtm

AMERICAN COUNSELING ASSOCIATION (ACA) www.counseling.org

DIVISIONS OF ACA:

American School Counselor Association (ASCA)

www.schoolcounselor.org

National Career Development Association (NCDA)

http://www.ncda.org/

Association for Counselor Education & Supervision (ACES)

http://www.acesonline.net

Association for Assessment in Counseling and Education (AACE)

http://www.aac.ncat.edu/

TEXAS COUNSELING ASSOCIATION (TCA)

www.txca.org

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT BROWNSVILLE & TEXAS SOUTHMOST COLLEGE

www.utb.edu

UTB Graduate Studies

http://www.utb.edu/vpaa/graduate/Pages/welcomegraduate.aspx

STATE BOARD FOR EDUCATOR CERTIFICATION

http://www.sbec.state.tx.us/SBECOnline/default.asp

31

Appendix A

Reading List

32

Required Reading List for Graduate Students in

Counseling & Guidance Studies

This is a reading list for graduate students in the Counseling & Guidance Program. This list contains works, which

we consider classic readings in the profession and which provide a basic theoretical orientation to the field of

psychotherapy and counseling. Familiarity with them will strengthen your own understanding of the graduate

studies in which you are embarking and begin to form a basis for your own library of professional materials. We

recommend that you read one or two books each semester as they will help you to better prepare for the oral exams

which occur upon completion of approximately 6 hours and the comprehensive exams which occur upon completion

of your studies. These readings can also support your ability to successfully prepare a portfolio and to complete

licensure examinations. You will be required to read 10 books out of this list.

As you progress through your program of study, you may be required to read additional textbooks and other

resource materials specific to the various classes in which you are enrolled such as Marriage & Family, Group

Counseling, Substance Abuse, and Career Counseling to name a few.

Enjoy your readings,

Counseling & Guidance Faculty

Axline, Virginia M. (1966). Dibs: in search of self : personality development in play therapy. Victor Gollancz,

London.

Buber, M (1970). I and Thou. New York: Scribners.

Ellis, A. & Harper. R. (1961). A Guide to Rational Living. Englewood Cliffs, N. J.: Prentice-Hall.

Frankl, V.E. (1963). Man’s Search for Meaning. New York: Beacon Press.

Freud, S. (1949). An Outline of Psychoanalysis. New York: Norton.

Jung, C.G. (1933). Modern Man in Search of a Soul. New York: Harcourt.

Maslow, A.H. (1970). Toward a Psychology of Being. (2nd

. Edition). New York: Harper & Row.

May, R. (1969). Love and Will. New York: Norton.

Perls, F.S. (1969). Gestalt Therapy Verbatim. Lafayette, California: Real People Press.

Rodgers, C. (1961). On Becoming a Person. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.

Skinner, B.F. (1971). Beyond Freedom & Dignity. New York: Knopf.

Watzlawick, P., Weakland, J,, Fisch, R. (1974) Change: Principles of Problem Formation and Problem

Resolution .

Yalom, Irvin D., (1989). Love's executioner, and other tales of psychotherapy. Harper Perennial, New York, N.Y.

33

Appendix B

Application for Oral Examination & Evaluation

34

Orals Application

Student Profile

APA Format Annotated Bibliography (recent literature read, including books you have read or

are currently reading from the required reading list)

Resume (including education, professional experience, credentials, hobbies/interests,

honors/awards)

If you meet the above criteria, please sign up for one of the interviews below. Indicate whether you

can attend from 4:30-7:00 p.m., from 7:15-9:45 p.m., or either time. If you are available at either

time, write yes under both times. You will receive an email from Dr. Cavazos with the forms you

need and the final schedule for the Oral Examination. If you have a schedule conflict, it is your

responsibility to contact Dr. Cavazos immediately to schedule an alternate date for your interview. If

you have questions, please contact your advisor.

Date of

Examination

November 1, 2012 Time(s) 4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. OR 7:15 p.m. – 9:45

p.m.

Location TBA

Please print clearly.

Name ID # Phone# & E-Mail Address 4:30

p.m.–

7:00 p.m.

7:15

p.m.-

9:45 p.m.

MEMO

TO: Counseling & Guidance Students

FROM: Counseling Program Faculty

DATE: Due date changes each semester

SUBJECT: Oral Examination

The Oral Examination is conducted each semester by the Counseling and Guidance Program faculty to assess

students’ academic progress and commitment to the counseling profession. The examination is conducted in a

group format interview and is considered an early indication of the student’s capacity for success in the

program.

The Oral Examination is required if you have completed 6 graduate hours in the Counseling and Guidance

Program and will be completing a total of 9-12 hours at the end of the current semester. The items below

are required by the Counseling and Guidance faculty prior to the Oral Examination, due on or before October

18th

. These required documents need to be submitted electronically and attached in an email message to Dr.

Javier Cavazos at Lionel.cavazos@utb.edu. Please make sure that your name appears in the name of each

attached document (e.g., Hernandez Orals Application, Hernandez Resume, Hernandez Bibliography, etc.).

35

APPLICATION FOR ORAL EXAMINATION

Name of Student Student ID

Address Street City State Zip

Phone Numbers Home Work Cell

E-mail

Advisor Track POS Submitted School Comm Yes No

Graduate Hours Completed GPA Graduate Hours In Progress

Student Signature (By typing your name, you verify all information is accurate) Date

(For Office Use Only)

Committee

Members Dr. Alma Leal

Dr. Olivia Rivas

Dr. Melissa Alvarado

Dr. Javier Cavazos Jr.

Dr. Eunice Lerma

Date of

Examination

Remarks

Signature of Examination Committee Chairperson Date

Return Forms via Email to Dr. Javier Cavazos Jr. and Lionel.cavazos@utb.edu

Counseling & Guidance Master’s Program

Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies

College of Education

The University of Texas at BrownsvilleCounseling & Guidance Master’s Program

Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies

College of Education

The University of Texas at Brownsville

36

ORAL EXAMINATION

Student Profile

Name Student ID

Please limit your answers to the following area: Office Use Only

Career Goal

1 2 3 4 5

Reason for

Pursuing

M.Ed. in

Counseling

1 2 3 4 5

Counseling Area

of Interest

1 2 3 4 5

Counseling-Related

Professional

Development

Activities

1 2 3 4 5

Counseling-Related

Professional

Organization

Membership

1 2 3 4 5

Personal/Academic

Strengths

1 2 3 4 5

Personal/Academic

Weaknesses

1 2 3 4 5

Counseling & Guidance Master’s Program

Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies

College of Education

The University of Texas at Brownsville

37

Appendix C

Ethics standards and Laws.

38

Ethics standards and Laws.

Students are expected to abide and stay current with laws and ethical codes set forth by the Texas

State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, the American Counseling Association, the

American School Counselor Association, and other ethical

Ethics and Laws for Counselors

ACA Code of Ethics

http://www.counseling.org/Resources/CodeOfEthics/TP/Home/CT2.aspx

ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors

http://schoolcounselor.org/files/EthicalStandards2010.pdf

LPC Code of Ethics

http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/counselor/lpc_rules.shtm

Texas Health & Safety Code, Chapter 611. Mental Health Records

http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/HS/htm/HS.611.htm

Texas Human Resources Code, Chapter 48. INVESTIGATIONS AND PROTECTIVE

SERVICES FOR ELDERLY AND DISABLED PERSONS

http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/HR/htm/HR.48.htm

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

http://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html

Texas Family Code, Chapter 261. INVESTIGATION OF REPORT OF CHILD ABUSE OR

NEGLECT

http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/FA/htm/FA.261.htm

39

APPENDIX F

Accreditation, Competencies and Standards

40

Accreditation, Competencies and Standards

CACREP

The Counseling and guidance master’s program at UTB/TSC is under review by the Council for Accreditation of

Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

In the United States, there are two types of accreditation—institutional and specialized. Institutional accreditation looks at

the entire institution. UTB/TSC is fully accredited by the Southern Association of colleges and Schools (SACS). More

information about institutional accreditation at UTB/TSC can be found at

http://www.utb.edu/vpaa/graduate/Pages/Catalog.aspx

Specialized accreditors, such as CACREP, look at professional preparation programs within institutions. CACREP

accreditation is not required of counselor education programs; rather, it identifies first-rate counselor education programs

that adhere to the strictest and highest standards in our profession. More information about CACREP accreditation can be

found at http://www.cacrep.org/template/index.cfm.

When programs are reviewed by CACREP, there are a few standards that address issues at the institutional level (such as

financial aid), but most of the application and review focus on the program that offers the graduate degree in counseling.

CACREP-accredited programs reflect the highest standards in counselor education. Only a handful of Texas master’s

programs in counseling have met these standards. Our application for CACREP accreditation reflects our commitment to

transcend institutional accreditation and provide our students with an academic experience commensurate with the best

counselor education programs in the nation.

Both the Community Counseling and School Counseling tracks in our program are under review. CACREP Core

standards, Community Counseling (CC) Standards, and School Counseling (SC) standards are reflected in our Student

Learner Outcomes.

State Board for Educator Certification: School Counselor

The State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) has created many new sets of standards for educators in entry-level

positions, including school counseling. These standards are focused upon the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills

(TEKS), the required statewide public school curriculum, and they reflect current research on the developmental states

and needs of children from Early Childhood through Grade 12. New educator standards are intended for implementation

in SBEC-approved educator preparation programs. Once developed, all new standards are then used in the development

of test frameworks for new Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES), the certification examination program

which began in fall 2002. Incorporating these standards in our curricula ensures that our students are exposed to the

certification standards for school counselors in Texas. More information for school counselor certification can be found at

http://www.sbec.state.tx.us/SBECOnline/standtest/edstancertfieldlevl.asp.

Texas State Board of Examiners of Licensed Professional Counselors

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DHS) Professional Licensing and Certification Unit consists of twenty-

three regulatory programs, including the Texas State Board of Examiners of Licensed Professional Counselors

(TSBELPC). This entity evaluates and issues credentials, monitors continuing education activities, conducts complaint

investigations, imposes disciplinary sanctions, and otherwise regulates the counseling profession in the State of Texas.

Incorporating the academic course requirements identified in Chapter 681, Subchapter E, Rule 681.83 in our curricula

ensures that our program meets the academic requirements for licensure as a Licensed professional Counselor in the

State of Texas. More information on professional counseling licensure can be found at

http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/counselor/default.shtm.