Graduate Counseling

The Master of Arts degree with majors in Counseling prepares counselors who are able to integrate their Christian faith and values with integrity in their practice of counseling.  Graduates of the program will be prepared to provide professional service to public agencies, churches, educational settings, para-church organizations and business and industry settings.  To that end, the graduate counseling program offers the following objectives.

This degree strives to promote:

• values of integration and integrity in counselor education guided by the beliefs and practices of the Christian faith;
• highly competent counselor training that places emphasis on doing and being, striving for growth and development in all areas as an effective strategy for promoting positive change in the people we serve;
• lifelong scholarly learning that draws from and adds to counseling literature both theoretical and applied;
• learning that respects and seeks to understand diversity.

Three concentrations - Community Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and School Counseling - of the counseling program at Indiana Wesleyan University are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) (5999 Stevenson Ave, Alexandria, VA 22304, 703-823-9800). CACREP is the accrediting arm of the largest association of professional counselors, the American Counseling Association (ACA). The Community Counseling program requires the completion of 48 or 60 semester hours, the Marriage and Family Therapy Program requires 60 semester hours and the School Counseling Program requires 48 hours. All concentrations require a supervised practicum and internships. The 60-hour programs meet the requirements for Licensed Mental Health Counselor or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Indiana. The School Counseling Program is approved by the Indiana Professional Standards Board.

The purpose and goal of the Addictions Counseling major is to educate students and returning professionals in the competency and practice of addictions sciences. This major seeks to be a world-class program of "science to service" with a relevant Christian perspective of hope and healing. The program has been granted Provider Status by the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) and the NAADAC State affiliate, the Indiana Association for Addiction Professionals (IAAP). Upon completion of the degree students will be eligible to take the NAADAC /IAAP exam for the national Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) and state Indiana Certified Addictions Counselor I or II (ICAC I, II) certification.

Students with a master's degree with a major in counseling who do not meet the requirements for Indiana state licensure may complete the academic requirements through Indiana Wesleyan University's Graduate Counseling Program. Those interested in this option should call 765-677-2855 or 800-895 0036 for more information.

Admission to the Counseling Program:

The admission requirements are:*

1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university or an institution accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
2. An undergraduate grade-point average of 3.0 from the baccalaureate degree granting institution at which at least a minimum of 30 hours was completed.
3. A combined score of at least 1000 on the verbal and quantitative measures of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) general test. GRE scores must be no older than five years.
4. A typewritten autobiography, philosophy of counseling, and a supplemental application.
5. An official transcript from each institution attended.
6. Three recommendations from professors or supervisors (one professional, one educational, and one other).

* The Graduate Admissions Committee retains the right to waive admission requirements for special circumstances.

Prerequisites - Counseling

The following prerequisites must be completed before completing 12 semester hours of counseling courses:

1. Six semester hours in Psychology which must include three hours in Abnormal Psychology.
2. Six semester hours in Bible, religion, or theology. Students may take any of the undergraduate required courses at Indiana Wesleyan University.

Progression Policy - Graduate Counseling

1. Minimum grade of "C" in each course.
2. Cumulative grade point average of 3.0.
3. All pre-requisites must be completed before completing 12 hours of counseling courses.
4. All requirements for the degree must be completed within 6 years of enrollment.

Core Courses - Counseling

All students who obtain a Master of Arts degree with a major in Counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University must take 36 hours of core curriculum courses.  In addition, each student must select one of the following concentrations:

48 Hour Community Counseling Concentration (not eligible for state licensure)

[This includes a 100-hour practicum with 40-50 direct contact hours (3 cr.) and a 600-hour internship with 240 (minimum) direct contact hours (6 cr.).]

60 Hour Community Counseling Concentration (eligible for state licensure)

[This includes a 100-hour practicum with 40-50 direct contact hours (3 cr.) and a 900-hour internship with 360 (minimum) direct contact hours (9 credits)]

60 Hour Community Counseling/Addictions Concentration (eligible for state licensure)

[This includes a 100 hour practicum with 40-50 direct contact hours (3 cr.) and a 900-hour internship with 360 (minimum) direct contact hours (9 credits)]

60 Hour Marriage and Family Therapy Concentration (eligible for state licensure)

[This includes a 100-hour practicum with 50 direct contact hours (3 cr.) and a 900-hour internship with 450 (minimum) direct contact hours (9 cr.).] 50% of all direct hours should be with couples and/or families.

48 Hour School Counseling Concentration (eligible for state licensure)

[This includes a 100-hour practicum with 40-50 direct contact hours (3 cr.) and a 600-hour internship with 240 (minimum) direct contact hours (6 cr.).] One full-year of internship in a school system is required for the 600 hour internship.

Program Requirements - Counseling

All students pursuing a major in Community Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, or School Counseling are required to take the following core courses:

Concentrations - Counseling

Community Counseling Concentration Requirements (48)

Community Counseling Concentration Requirements (60)

 Community/Addictions Concentration Requirements (60)

Marriage and Family Therapy Concentration Requirements (60) 

School Counseling Concentration Requirements (48)

Core Courses - Addictions Counseling

Counseling Elective Courses

(Community Counseling (48), School Counseling (48) - 6 hours required; Community Counseling (60), Community Counseling/Addictions (60) – 9 hours required; and Marriage and Family Therapy - 3 hours required.)

Post Master's Degree Certificate

Any individual with an accredited Master's degree with a major in Counseling or a closely related field that is seeking counselor licensure may enroll in IWU's post Master's Degree Certificate program. Interested individuals would need:

• at least a 3.0 GPA in previous graduate work
• a completed application to the graduate counseling program
• a letter stating why they are seeking state licensure
• a letter from the Health Professions Bureau (HPB) stating what coursework is necessary to meet their educational requirements for licensure (at least twelve hours would be necessary for this certificate)

If it is determined by the HPB that only clinical hours (practicum and/or internship) are needed, the student must present a tape of a counseling session and a reference from a qualified (master's level with at least two years of experience) supervisor. This tape and reference will be reviewed by the graduate counseling faculty and be considered in the acceptance process. All students enrolled in clinical experiences must purchase personal liability insurance.

Once the student is admitted into the program, a 3.0 GPA needs to be maintained until the post Master's certificate is completed.

Additional Courses for State Licensure (LMHC) Preparation

Graduate Counseling Course Descriptions

CNS-501 Human Growth and Development 3

The study of individual and family development across the life span. An examination of cognitive, personality, and moral development throughout life stages. Additional emphasis will be placed on human sexuality.

CNS-502 Multicultural Counseling 3

The study of the social and cultural foundations of the behaviors of individuals, families, and diverse groups. Strategies that promote understanding and effective intervention will be stressed.

CNS-503 Theory and Techniques in the Helping Relationship 3

An investigation of a range of counseling theories and their applications in the helping relationship. Application of basic and advanced helping skills that will facilitate positive change in the helping process.

CNS-504 Theory and Techniques in Group Counseling 3

The study of group theories, dynamics, process, and stages. An examination of group roles and leadership as well as basic and advanced group interventions. A weekly therapy group experience is required for this class in addition to the scheduled class time. There is also an additional lab fee to cover the cost of the group therapist.

CNS-505 Theory and Techniques in Career Counseling 3

An investigation of career development theory including career decision-making; gender, family, and social/cultural issues; and the use of techniques and assessment instruments that facilitate lifelong career development.

CNS-506 Appraisal of Individuals 3

Studies that provide an understanding of the evaluation of individuals and groups. An investigation of appraisal methods that include validity, reliability, and psychometric statistics.

CNS-507 Research and Evaluation of Methods and Practice 3

Includes studies that provide a broad understanding of quantitative and qualitative research designs, research reporting and evaluation, and the use of computers in data collection and analysis.

CNS-508 Professional Orientation and Development 3

An examination of professional roles and responsibilities with regard to the counseling profession. Includes ethical, legal, and Biblical standards for conduct, professional organizations, credentialing, and developing a plan for lifelong professional and personal development and integrity.

CNS-509 Integration of the Theory and Practice of Christian Counseling 3

A study of integration models and the application of these models to the practice of Christian counseling. This study includes the basic assumptions of Christianity and psychology, the nature of the Christian experience, and the direct application of the major teachings of the Bible to the helping relationship. Prerequisite: CNS-501, CNS-504, CNS-508

CNS-511 Issues in Addiction Recovery 3

The study of the underlying issues that contribute to various addictive and compulsive behaviors. Assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of addictions are discussed, as well as models of recovery.

CNS-512 Psychopharmacology 3

The basic classifications and indications of commonly prescribed psychopharmacological medications. The study of the appropriate uses of these medications, as well as the identification of the effects and side effects of the medications.

CNS-513 Spiritual Formation and Direction 3

The study of the practice of spiritual growth. An emphasis will be placed on the application of the spiritual disciplines such as prayer, meditation, study, solitude, etc. Personal application, as well as directing the spiritual growth of others, will be stressed.

CNS-519 Theories and Techniques of School Counseling 3

A particular emphasis will be given to the role and function of the school counselor as a professional team member. The various roles of the school counselor will be presented within a comprehensive framework. Special emphasis will be given to the role of the school counselor as consultant, counselor, and coordinator.

CNS-520 Studies in Intimacy and Sexuality 3

The study of human interaction in relationships with emphasis on intimacy and sexuality. Additional areas of study would include gender issues, sexual identity formation, and sexual abuse. Strategies for counseling interventions will be explored.

CNS-522 Foundations and Contextual Dimensions of Community Counseling 3

The history and philosophy of the community counseling movement including the roles and identity of community counselors, ethical considerations, and the training and credentializing of community counselors. Includes principles of community intervention, education, and outreach. Additional emphasis will be placed on pastoral counseling and church and parachurch ministry settings.

CNS-523 Knowledge and Skills for the Practice of Community Counseling 3

Client characteristics and the effective strategies for promoting growth in individuals seen in community counseling settings. Additional emphasis will be placed on program development to address the education and training of individuals, consultation, crisis counseling, and debriefing issues related to addiction and recovery.

CNS-525 Contemporary Issues Seminar 1-3

This course will supply theoretical and practical direction to contemporary issues. Attention will be given to etiology, theory, research and practice. Topics will be discussed from psychological and Christian perspectives, with an eye towards how therapists can more helpfully conceptualize and respond to various relevant issues. Topics will vary to meet the needs/interests of students, professors, and contemporary culture.

CNS-527 Child and Adolescent Development and Treatment 3

The purpose of this course is to equip future counselors to effectively respond to the unique needs of children and adolescents in a variety of settings. Developmental theory, interventions, and prevention strategies will be presented relevant to this population. Coordination and consultation will be encouraged in order to respond to the needs of the child and adolescent using a comprehensive team approach.

CNS-529 Theories and Techniques of School Counseling II 3

This course is a continuation of CNS-519, Theories and Techniques of School Counseling I, and will include additional tools for building and sustaining a successful school counseling program. The introductory course focused on the role of the school counselor. This course, building on the first, will include the philosophy and mechanics of building relationships with key individuals and groups in the school community as well as other tools for developing and maintaining a school counseling office, including assessing and meeting needs in the school community, collaborative action research, advanced consultation, and the use of technology. Students will also be exposed to additional theory and practice of integration of Biblical principles into their school counseling practice. Prerequisite: CNS-519

CNS-533 Psychopathology 3

The principles of etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental and emotional disorders. An examination of the assessment and interpretation of mental disorders as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV).

CNS-535 Theories and Treatment of Addiction 3

The major theories and accepted treatment options of addiction and other compulsive behavior syndromes will be examined. Students will critically evaluate the major theories and treatment methods of addiction counseling to formulate their own working theory and treatment approaches of addiction counseling.

CNS-538 Theory and Practice of Play Therapy 3

This course is an introduction to the field of play therapy for both graduate students and clinical practitioners working with children, adolescents, and adults. This course will familiarize participants with the history of play therapy, its primary theoretical models, and general applications. This class will provide hours that can be applied to therapy instruction necessary to become a Registered Play Therapist (RPT).

CNS-541 Foundations of Marriage and Family Therapy 3

The history and philosophy of the marriage and family counseling movement, including the roles and identity of marriage and family counselors, ethical considerations, and the training and credentialing of marriage and family counselors.

CNS-542 Trends and Treatment Issues in Marriage and Family Counseling 3

An examination of societal trends and family life-cycle stages and their impact on family functioning. Additional studies of families in transition, nontraditional families, and intergenerational influences on family development. Additional emphasis will be placed on issues of addiction and recovery and their impact on the family.

CNS-543 Major Models of MFT II: Theory, Assessment, and Application 3

The study of family systems theory and their application with couples and families. Assessment and case management skills for working with couples and families including preventative approaches, training in parenting skills, and relationship enhancement.

CNS-544 Graduate Capstone Project 3

This is a personalized project consistent with the student's current research interest. This project may include a major research paper and/or a publishable paper or a presentation at a professional conference.

CNS-545 Counseling Addicted Families 3

This course will focus on a family systems approach to counseling addicted individuals and their family members. Attention will be given to the principles of family therapy, the unique features of the addicted family system, and the integration of these two systems. Further attention will be given to the integration of Christian faith and practice within the therapeutic process.

CNS-546 Major Models of MFT III: Theory, Assessment, and Application 3

This course is designed to further training in contemporary marriage and family theory, effectiveness research, and with specific clinical populations. Theoretical textbook readings are from original authors covering contemporary cognitive-behavioral therapy with personality disorder and trauma, dynamic theory and application, experiential theory and application, and emotionally focused couple therapy with trauma survivors.

CNS-550 Supervised Practicum 3

A supervised counseling experience providing the opportunity to practice individual and group counseling skills. The 100-hour practicum includes a minimum of 40 direct contact hours and weekly individual and group supervision. Prerequisites: CNS-501, CNS-508, and CNS-541 or CNS-522.

CNS-551 Supervised Internship 3

The opportunity to practice and provide a variety of counseling related activities that would normally be expected of a regularly employed staff member. The 300-hour practicum includes a minimum of 120 hours of direct service and weekly individual and group supervision. Prerequisite: CNS-550

CNS-552 Supervised Internship 3

See CNS-551.

CNS-554 Supervised Internship 3

See CNS-551.

CNS-559 Thesis Project 3

This course will be culmination of the student's graduate course work. The student will assimilate the knowledge and skills from all previous course work to complete a cogent and relevant thesis of individual written research in the area of addictions. The thesis is to be original and should use accepted research methods of inquiry. The thesis will contribute to deeper understanding or new knowledge to the field and professional practice of addictions counseling. The topic of investigation must have signed prior approval of the course professor and the graduate Director of Addictions Counseling.

CNS-560 Graduate Counseling-Independent Study 1-3

An individualized study agreed upon by the student and faculty member that allows the student to focus on a specific area of knowledge or service to a particular population. The study would normally include the components of research, theory, and practice with the integration of Christian faith.