SCP 585: Counseling Culturally Diverse Populations

The focus of Counseling in Schools with Culturally Diverse Populations is on preparing counselors who will be able to assure students of culturally diverse backgrounds access to appropriate services and opportunities that promote maximum development. Counseling students will be expected to conduct self-examination of their personal values, attitudes, and beliefs regarding cultural diversity in the schools. Counseling techniques will be explored which foster the interest of culturally diverse students in careers that have been traditionally limited or closed. Also emphasized will be small group and classroom activities which enhance self-esteem and cultural awareness, and develop acceptance and appreciation of cultural diversity. These studies will provide an understanding of the cultural context of relationships, and issues and trends in a multicultural and diverse society related to such factors as culture, ethnicity, nationality, age, gender, sexual orientation, mental and physical characteristics, education, family values, religious and spiritual values, socioeconomic status and unique characteristics of individuals, couples, families, ethnic groups, and communities.