74 courses with the subject PSY, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
A study of the basic concepts, theories and findings in learning, perception, motivation, thinking, and personality.
This course is designed to help students develop an understanding of different categories of addictions. The addictive process and recovery will be studied, including the reciprocal interaction between addicted individuals and the various social systems of which they are a part. There will also be a focus on societal contributors and responses to addictions.
This course introduces the topic of mental health in adulthood. Mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns will be reviewed. Particular emphasis will be placed on development, stigma, and ways to talk to adults about their mental health. Note: students are eligible for Mental Health First Aid (Adult) certification following the completion of this course.
This course introduces the topic of mental health in childhood and adolescence. Mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns will be reviewed. Particular emphasis will be placed on development, stigma, and ways to talk to youth about their mental health. Note: students are eligible for Mental Health First Aid (Adult) certification following the completion of this course.
Basic concepts in psychology will be explored through film, lecture, readings and discussion.
A continuation of the introductory course which focuses on brain-behavior, relationships, altered states of consciousness, life span psychology, intellectual, and social processes.
The purpose of this course is to familiarize students with the history of problems associated with drug and alcohol use and various forms of addiction throughout the years, and how our laws and policies around these issues have evolved following a cyclical pattern of tolerance and restraint. Specific topics will include the “War on Drugs,” “Sentencing” for drug-related crimes, the Harrison Act, State and local narcotic control, federal support of the medical approach, and America’s political process around drugs.
The purpose of this course is to familiarize students with the types of problems associated with drugs and alcohol use and various forms of addition. Specific topics will include alcohol use and addiction, prescription and illegal drug use, and other forms of addictive behaviors including 173
This course addresses the developmental changes that occur in early adulthood, middle adulthood, and through later stages of the human lifespan. The course will cover common developmental milestones inherent in geriatric psychology. It will include issues that adults address as they advance through adulthood including aging, bereavement, career and retirement, and changing roles in family, peer, and romantic relationships. Physical, cognitive, and social- emotional development across all adult age groups will also be explored through a cultural lens as well.
Students will explore and practice research, writing and oral communication skills designed to enlighten and provide reflective analysis about the diversity of our social world. Emphasis will be placed on collecting, communicating and analyzing data and literature, the balance between qualitative and quantitative methods, and criteria for evaluating information
A study of lifespan development through an examination of the biological, cognitive, and social domains and their interdependency. Examines developmental changes from conception to late adulthood. Explores how current research theories of human development translate into practice, specifically that of nursing students.
This course focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary to work with vulnerable populations. The course will describe the nature of severe addiction in relation to behavioral, biological, environmental, historical, medical, and socio-cultural aspects. The course will focus on the role of context and how it might create risk for addiction, explore how culture might augment or constrain vulnerability to addiction, and describe the differential treatment and service needs of vulnerable populations. Clinical and public health options to address the needs of vulnerable populations will be discussed. 174
This advanced course provides the historical context in which contemporary systems of psychology exist. Topics will range from the earliest attempts to study the human mind to current issues and controversies in the field.
The purpose of this course is to teach students the theoretical foundations, clinical interventions, and applications of positive psychology. Positive psychology is the scientific study of what makes life most worth living, by emphasizing the positive emotions, thought patterns, and relationships that contribute to human flourishing. This class explore the measurement, development, and cultivation of character strengths such as: wisdom, courage, humanity, justice, temperance, and transcendence. Conceptual and empirical tools are offered to craft and evaluate interventions that promote psychological well-being. The empirical evidence underlying the science of positive subjective experience will be reviewed.
Students in this course will act as peer mentors to students in the General Psychology courses. In this course, students will meet with a faculty sponsor and will be paired with at least one instructor and section of General Psychology. Students will be required to attend most class meetings in order to developing peer mentoring, classroom management, and leadership skills in the classroom environment. They will be given opportunities to evaluate, reflect, support, and process their college experience in order to support students as they transition from secondary to higher education
A study of the development of abnormal, deviant, or pathological behaviors. The course will discuss how these behaviors manifest and are diagnosed using the DSM-5-TR. The course will examine the contributions made by analytic, neurological, cognitive-behavioral, and humanistic schools in understanding the ontogenesis of abnormal behavior as well as the effectiveness of various treatment models.
An analysis of the factors which influence personality development and a comprehensive study of modern personality theories.
A course designed first to consider the biological differences between men and women and how these may influence behavior and perceptions. The course will then consider how gender roles are developed and perpetuated by cultural mores, media representation, and advertising.
Educational Psychology is the study of how people learn. This branch of psychology focuses on memory, individual differences, and conceptual processes associated with learning. The field of educational psychology incorporates a number of other disciplines, including developmental, behavioral, and cognitive psychology. This course will explore influences of an individual’s learning such as learning styles, multiple intelligences, cultural influences, gender, learning 175
This course provides an introduction to the study of human behavior in social contexts. Representative topics include social cognition, social perception, attitude formation, aggression, pro-social behavior, conformity, attraction, and group dynamics. The application of research to current social issues is also considered.
This course will introduce students to the role of the family and other external support systems in the maintenance and treatment of chemical dependency. Students will be introduced to the characteristics and dynamics of families, couples and significant others affected by chemical dependency and the process of addiction. Students will examine the process of addiction, the impact on families and loved ones, basic family theories and models of assessment, engagement and treatment in the recovery process. In addition, students will learn about and analyze the role of self-help groups in the recovery of the family, how they function and how they differ from formal treatment options.
A course designed to help the student become aware of theories of prejudice and discrimination, and one's own multiple social identities, including gender roles. Course will help the student understand the impact of one's culture on a person's behavior, attitudes and worldview and how sensitivity to group identity must be a consideration in counseling.
A course in which the student is exposed to advanced work in the areas of perception, learning, and memory through readings, demonstrations, and written projects. Also emphasized are the applications to behavior modification, brain changes, and cognition. Prerequisite: PSY101.
A comparison of the scientific methods, procedures and test instruments to be followed by the student in designing, completing, and writing a research paper. The appropriate use of experimental control, applications of statistics, and the ethical requirements of such studies are stressed. Prerequisite: PSY101, quantitative reasoning course in and statistics preferred.
An examination of psychological theories and research related to sport behavior.
This course examines the structures and functions of the human brain as they relate to psychological processes and human behaviors. 176
This course provides an examination of the behavioral and central nervous system effects of pharmacologic substance use, and the application of such substances to the prevention and treatment of mental health disorders. Topics include basic neuronal function, pharmacology principles, medication selection and side effects, novel application of various medications, and assessment of patients considered for treatment. The course will also examine the cultural and professional concerns of prescribing medication and the role of the pharmaceutical industry in drug development, research, and sales.
This course provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to be involved in research under the supervision of a faculty member. Students in this course will have the opportunity to review literature and participate in a variety of activities related to ongoing research. These will vary each semester but might include data collection, data processing, data coding, data analysis, and data dissemination.
This advanced course provides students with an understanding of systems theory as it applies to group behavior. Students will explore similarities and differences between face-to-face and virtual groups. Emphasis is on experiential learning.
An opportunity for senior students to gain practical experience in the field of psychology within local agencies and community services. For majors only; minimum GPA 2.80. Prerequisite HMS 214.
This course examines abnormal psychology including the manner in which mental illness is manifested and diagnosed. Students will be exposed to a wide range of mental health diagnoses using the current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The course will examine the contributions made by various psychological schools of thought with regards to the etiologies of abnormal behavior, relevant concepts of psychopathology, and common approaches to treatment.
A survey of current personality theories, their view of the human person, and their influence on treatment, education and culture of today. Course is a prerequisite to understanding counseling theory and technique. To that end attention will be paid to therapeutic events such as free association, transference, repression dream analysis, midlife crises, individuation, birth order, inferiority feelings, operant conditions, etc. Particular attention will be paid to the techniques used in the psychodynamic, humanistic, and behavioristic treatment models.
This course will be exploring the complexities of gender and sexuality in society and the world of mental health. This course will support students in learning how to engage in sensitive and ethical treatment with individuals across the gender and sexuality spectrum.
Course description is: This course offers readings, lecture, and class discussion to explore and understand the foundations of holistic therapies. The holistic perspective will be explored including the connections between mind, body, soul, spirit, and relationships with regards to human nature and well-being. Holistic clinical techniques discussed will include concepts from Buddhist psychology, meditation, mindfulness, visualization, Ayurveda, yoga, and body- centered practices.
300
An experiential/didactic approach to the theory of group behavior and group interaction. In addition to assigned readings focusing on the dynamics and formation of groups, as well as the different kinds of group settings, e.g., support groups, psychoeducational, and therapeutic groups, students will be required to participate as members of a group and will also be taught to record data and observations.
This graduate level elective course is designed as an introduction to expressive arts theories and practices for those studying to become mental health professionals. The course will cover the tenents of expressive arts therapy and will include time for experientials that will explore approaches, methods and materials associated with expressive arts therapy.
This course focuses on mental health crises as they emerge in a variety of settings and situations. Mental health topics include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, non- suicidal self-injury, and substance use. An emphasis will be placed on recognizing risk factors, using nonjudgmental language, reducing mental health stigma, and identifying a range of professional support systems. Note: students can be eligible for Mental Health First Aid certification (adult and youth population) through completion of this course.
301
PSY 707 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or PSY 717 Dialect
Course description is: This course introduces the application of psychological concepts, principles, and methods to process issues and problems in the work environment. Content is balanced between practice and theory. Critical thinking is emphasized to prepare the practitioner for today's workplace challenges.
An introduction to the field of vocational rehabilitation counseling including an overview of the history, philosophy, and legislation. Attitudinal, social and environmental barriers to the inclusion of people with disabilities will be examined. The course will also address the professional identities, roles and functions of a vocational counselor.
The evolution of technology has led to a shifting landscape in healthcare, offering patient care in circumstances where it was previously unavailable. However, while it is undeniable that advances in technology are providing individuals with an accessibility and ease of treatment, the telehealth model also contains challenges that providers need to consider in practice. The COVID-19 epidemic of 2020 has propelled the industry into a state of action and improvement on telehealth services. As it is becoming apparent that tele-mental health services are taking strong root in healthcare, it is imperative the mental health community gain a deeper understanding of how this work impacts clinical relationships and the unique elements about using this platform to provide ethical and effective care. Students in this course will learn specifically about: the privacy and security issues inherent within telehealth, models of tele- 302
Informed Environments (3) This course provides clinicians with an outreach counseling guide for assisting people who have experienced trauma and homelessness. Detailed case studies from the field will be shared to elucidate effective ways of helping through counseling methods, program development, and policies that demonstrate how the most vulnerable among us can overcome trauma and homelessness.
The Comprehensive Exam is a program requirement designed to assess a student’s readiness for advanced clinical training. Administered during the Practicum Seminar (PSY 791), this exam evaluates both academic knowledge and applied clinical skills to ensure students are adequately prepared for internship. The exam measures foundational knowledge of major counseling theories, concepts, and ethical issues, as well as clinical decision-making and interviewing skills. It also incorporates practice items modeled after the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Exam (NCMHCE), providing students with an opportunity to demonstrate competency in areas directly relevant to future licensure preparation. Successful completion of the Comprehensive Exam signifies that a student has met the academic and clinical benchmarks necessary to advance to internship placement. Master of Science in Criminal Justice (online) Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study Certificate in Forensic Criminology Graduate Certificate in Domestic and International Terrorism Graduate Certificate in Victim Studies Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice Leadership and Administration Anna Maria College recognizes that criminal justice professionals face increasing challenges that demand knowledge and an appreciation of our diverse society. Over the years Anna Maria College’s criminal justice programs have changed with the national scene, contributing to and living within some of the highest academic standards in the field. As the field of criminal justice has grown and evolved, so have our programs, which continue to stand as a model for academic change and excellence. Collaborations and partnerships have allowed the programs to provide education and leadership beyond the traditional classroom walls. Emphasis on intellectual involvement, career preparation, social awareness, and dedication to peace and justice are cornerstones of our programs. The faculty brings a broad spectrum of educational achievements and professional experiences to the classroom. Faculty and students come together as a community of scholars and learners to acquire knowledge in an ever-changing field and to explore the boundaries of that knowledge through research and analytical thought. Anna Maria College educated criminal justice professionals have a commitment to professionalism and excellence, and are cognizant of their responsibilities to the community. The Master of Science in Criminal Justice program is an accelerated online program designed to prepare students for professions in criminal justice while enhancing the academic and professional knowledge of those who are already employed in the field. The curriculum engages students in the exploration of the relationship between theory and practice; the issues inherent in focusing on one over the other and the complexities of searching for answers to crime problems 307
This course will introduce the student to Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). Developed by Aaron Beck in the 1960’s, CBT is an evidenced based practice proven to be highly effective in the treatment of various psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders and addiction related problems.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based practice used by mental health and addiction professionals. This course explores the theory of MI and offers techniques and insight into how to apply them. The course is based on the latest book written by the founders of MI, William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is an evidence based practice used by mental health professionals to treat high risk/high need patients at all levels of care. This course explores the theory of dialectics and provides an introduction to the practical application of DBT structure and skills. The class will be structured similar to that of a DBT Skills group for experiential learning opportunities. Students will also learn and practice DBT strategies and principles through assigned reading, role play, and group discussions.
A course designed to acquaint the student with the application of various counseling theories. The course will begin with a review of the process of differential diagnosis and then consider what therapeutic models may best suit a particular client. Students will be helped to examine the texture of the therapeutic relationships, ability to listen and reflect appropriately, to consider their own issues, and to be particularly attentive to boundary issues. Course may include audio or 303
PSY 726 Addiction and Recovery or PSY 727 Substance Use
A course which assumes a basic knowledge of alcoholism and is a detailed study of the major types of treatment alternatives and stages of treatment. Course will also discuss research data in treatment effectiveness.
The problematic use of opiates is not a new problem in America; however, a collection of factors has led to the nationwide Opiate Epidemic. It is imperative the mental health community gain a deeper understanding of the nature of opiate addiction and the unique elements in treating individual with this substance dependence. Students in this course will learn specifically about the neuroscience of opiates, the history of opiate use and abuse in America, the impact of medical providers and their battle to help patients with pain management, and most importantly, the community initiatives to address the deadly costs of the opiate epidemic.
298
This course explores the importance of embracing the journey to becoming culturally competent in providing treatment and services to individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. The course places greater emphasis on understanding and practicing effective models of multicultural counseling recognized by experts in the field. In addition, students will examine major barriers impacting treatment including oppression, racism, discrimination and their own culture’s impact on the therapeutic relationship. Current local, nationwide and world events concerning social justice will also be considered. 304
This course is intended to introduce post-modern theories and techniques as they apply to marital and family therapy and to begin the practical application of those theories into hands-on role- play. This is a highly interactive class which will allow the student to have both the experience of being in a “family” seeking family therapy, as well as being a practitioner doing family therapy.
A course designed to explore the effects of various types of trauma on children and adults. Topics will include death within the family, divorce, unemployment, as well as sexual and psychological abuse. Course will also look at posttraumatic stress disorder and treatment techniques.
Master of Arts (Licensure Track – 60 Credits)
An introduction to the functional systems of the brain as they relate to behavior and neuropsychological functioning in the areas of attention, memory, and higher level executive functioning. Student will also be exposed to neurological and cognitive tests.
This course will introduce the student to the special issues involved in assessing and treating individuals who have committed sexually abusive acts. Attention will be paid to sexual history taking and differentiating normal from abnormal sexual behavior at various ages. Several etiologies of offending behavior will be explored to highlight the diversity in the population. Students will be trained in the use of assessment tools that are used to assess risk and screen for the need for specialized interventions. Finally, there will be an introduction to more specific testing methods and specialized treatment techniques used with this population. The course will provide a framework for accurate clinical understanding, an aid for structuring safety plans, and a guide to recognizing individuals who require referral to specialists.
This course addresses the theory and practice of forensic psychology, the psychological specialty that deals with issues at the interface of psychology, clinical practice, and the law. Specifically, the focus of this course is the practice of forensic psychology as it relates to mental illness and 305
This course fulfills the 100-hour pre-Master’s practicum requirement for licensure as a Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. Students complete a practicum experience in an approved mental health setting under the supervision of a licensed mental health counselor. The seminar provides structured opportunities for observation, skill development, and integration of academic knowledge into professional practice. Class sessions emphasize case discussion, reflection, and professional growth. The Practicum Seminar is closely linked with the Comprehensive Exam (PSY 700), as both are designed to evaluate and support a student’s transition from beginning counselor to internship readiness.
Four Elective Courses Examples Include:
A course designed to provide the student with a 300-hours field placement under the supervision of an appropriately licensed, practicing psychologist. The student will be afforded the opportunity to work, under supervision, directly with clients or groups. Student will be helped to develop and refine their counseling skills and techniques. Students will also participate in a weekly on-campus seminar directed by a licensed mental health counselor to further help them develop as professionals. Students must have completed 30 graduate credits including the pre- master’s practicum and have obtained the program director’s approval. Prerequisite: PSY 724
A course designed to provide the student with the final 300-hours field placement under the supervision of an appropriately licensed, practicing psychologist. The student will be afforded the opportunity to work, under supervision, directly with clients or groups. Students will be helped to develop and refine their counseling skills and techniques. Students will also participate in a weekly on-campus seminar directed by a licensed mental health counselor to further help them develop as professionals. Students must have successfully completed PSY 793 Clinical Internship Seminar I and have obtained the program director’s approval.
A course designed to provide the student with additional field placement hours beyond the 600- hour field placement completed in PSY 793/794 under the supervision of an appropriately licensed, practicing psychologist. The student will be afforded the opportunity to work, under 306
Source: Anna Maria College's catalog, linked per course · table learning_unit · CourseShelf publish 61
