Social and Human Services Associate in Applied Science Degree Mental Health Career Track

This course introduces the practices and principles of interpersonal communication in both dyadic and group settings. Emphasis is placed on the communication process, perception, listening, self-disclosure, speech apprehension, ethics, nonverbal communication, conflict, power, and dysfunctional communication relationships. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate interpersonal communication skills, apply basic principles of group discussion, and manage conflict in interpersonal communication situations.

This course introduces the concepts of group processes and group dynamics. Emphasis is placed on essential tools for understanding, participating in, and contributing to group processes. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and explain how people are influenced by their interactions in group settings and facilitate various groups.

This course provides exposure to different mental health treatment and intervention modalities. Topics include professional and self-help forms of intervention. Upon completion, students should be able to apply culturally competent mental health intervention principles to individuals and groups in a variety of treatment settings.

This course provides a basic survey of human biology. Emphasis is placed on the basic structure and function of body systems and the medical terminology used to describe normal and pathological states. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of normal anatomy and physiology and the appropriate use of medical terminology.

This course examines the development and use of DSM/ICD in the mental health setting to establish a common language. Emphasis is placed on history, terminology, and assessment practices associated with the DSM/ICD in the treatment of psychological disorders. Upon completion, students should be able to explain the core vocabulary of treatment approaches and their applications.

This course examines the historical development, values, orientation, and professional standards of social work and focuses on the terminology and broader systems of social welfare. Emphasis is placed on the various fields of practice including those agencies whose primary function is financial assistance, corrections, mental and behavioral health, and protective services. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the knowledge, values, and skills of the social work professional.

This course is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the role of diversity and ethical considerations within the human services profession. Emphasis is placed on the knowledge and skills in the evolving landscape of human services. Upon completion, students should be able to apply ethical decision-making, demonstrate an understanding of diverse perspectives, and identify current trends in the human services field.

This course covers the roles and duties of the individual and community advocate. Topics include treatment planning, needs assessment, referral procedures, and follow-up and integration of services. Upon completion, students should be able to effectively advocate for the care of the whole person and community.

This course provides a comparison of diverse roles, interests, opportunities, contributions, and experiences in social life. Topics include race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, class, and religion. Upon completion, students should be able to analyze how cultural and ethnic differences evolve and how they affect personality development, values, and tolerance. This course has been approved for transfer under the CAA as a general education course in Social/Behavioral Sciences.