Courses

TRANSPERSONAL COUNSELING PSYCHOLOGY (PSYT)

PSYT 300/500
Jung and the Gnostic World View (1)
This class looks at the Gnostic Gospels as descriptions of archetypal patterns and symbolic descriptions of the individuation process as Jung understood it. The Gnostic branch of early Christianity was an introverted form of early Christianity, which was declared heretical, but has continued to resurface time and again throughout the last two thousand years. In the last fifty years, many of the original writings were discovered in Egypt, and Jung was given some of the original codices, becoming excited by the writings of people who described in symbolic language their view of the psyche.

PSYT 305/505
Introduction to Jungian Psychology (2)
This course lays the foundations for understanding Jungian psychology, its history and development as influenced by the personal lives of Carl Jung, Freud and others in the atmosphere of the first half of the twentieth century. Emphasis is on the practical application of Jung’s theories, both in one’s personal life and professional work. Jung’s ideas about the structure of the psyche, the flow of psychic energy, complexes, archetypes, the collective unconscious and typology are explored as well as the ways a therapist can assist or deter the psyche’s natural tendency to heal itself.

PSYT 314e/514e
The Diamond Approach (3)
The Diamond Approach is an original, thorough and precise spiritual path developed and taught by A. H. Almaas. Introducing the main insights and concepts of the Diamond Approach, this course draws on modern psychology as well as timeless spiritual wisdom, offering a fresh approach to living fully and deeply. It provides precise descriptions of the characteristics of spiritual realization and its barriers. By understanding and working with these barriers, we are better able to fulfill our potential for a life of engagement, service, contentment, richness, depth and mystery. Online fees apply.
This class is also available noncredit online. Click here for registration details.

PSYT 320/520
Psychology of Wilderness Experience (3)
Through group process, experiential activities and ritual, participants experience an ancient, pan-cultural, earth-centered rite of passage in a wilderness setting. This course follows the traditional stages of a rite of passage: Severance (leaving behind what is familiar); Threshold (three days and nights of solitude/fasting); and Reincorporation (bringing back gifts or insights to the community). Open to the transformative power of nature, participants have the opportunity to inquire deeply and directly into themselves and their relationship to the natural world and their community. Participants provide their own camping equipment and share food and transportation. Course is open to students by application and permission of instructors. Lab fee.

PSYT 330/530
Journey to the Source (2)
Canoeing is one of North America’s rare contemplative sports. Students have the opportunity on this seven-day river course to create an engaged community of self, other and the natural world. Drawing from meditation, yoga, group process, Gestalt, ecopsychology and poetry, students practice awareness focused on the “body of the earth,” of which they are an integral part. This wisdom of Lao-tzu and other contemplative masters are shared to spark conversations and reflections. Attention to skill, cooperation, safety and the dynamics of the river guides the canoe instruction. This is a 1+ river (easy, yet interesting) in exquisite canyon country. No experience necessary. Extra fees apply.

PSYT 332/532
Storytelling and Mythology: Jungian Perspectives (3)
This course examines the history and present use of the telling of stories as a healing method for individuals, families and groups. Case material is used to describe the value of telling stories in therapy, and of listening to the mythological themes, which so often weave in and out of a client’s personal story.

PSYT 346/646
Contemplative Voice Work: Sounding the Body-Mind (2)
Each person’s voice is a unique energetic “fingerprint” and has the potential to form a bridge between the physical and nonphysical and the realms of inner and outer experience. Students use contemplative approaches to bring awareness to the connection between the voice and body and to experience the energy of the body through sound. This course is for any students who want to explore their voice. Singing ability not required.

PSYT 369/569
Art Therapy Perspective (For Non-Majors) (2)
Providing a detailed survey of the field of art therapy, this course covers a wide range of topics and offers broad-based exposure to the theory and practice of art therapy. Open to all graduate students and undergraduate seniors with permission of the instructor. BA seniors and MA only.

PSYT 375/575
Taming the Wild Horse: Riding the Energy of Emotions (2)
Learning to work with emotions can be challenging, even for experienced meditators. This five-day residential rural group retreat is designed to strengthen meditative tools for understanding and healing emotional struggle. Especially applicable for people working in the helping professions who wish to deepen compassion for self and others, the retreat includes “sending and taking” meditation (tonglen); mindfulness/awareness sitting practice (shamatha); contemplative interactive exercises; periods of silence; mindful eating practice; and outdoor walking meditation. Individual meditation instruction, as well as daily lectures and discussions, are included. Prerequisite: Prior meditation retreat experience or permission of instructor. Extra fees apply.

PSYT 396W/596W
Transpersonal Counseling Psychology Conference (1)
The Transpersonal Counseling Psychology Department offers a one-weekend conference in the summer featuring leaders in transpersonal psychology. Previous conferences have focused on the state of the art in transpersonal psychology, ecopsychology, psychotherapy and contemplative practice, initiation, creativity and community and have included such esteemed faculty as Frances Vaughan, Roger Walsh, Laura Sewall, David Abram, Angeles Arrien, Malidome Some, Stan Grof, Don Campbell, Pat Allen and Shaun McNuff. Topics and faculty vary from year to year. Offered occasionally.

PSYT 506
Jungian Dream Work (2)
This course lays the foundations and develops an understanding of Jungian dream work from both a theoretical and a practical perspective. Emphasis is placed on the practical use of dreams in therapy and in one’s own personal life. Students look at the structure and process of dreams, objective and subjective interpretations, associations and amplifications, complexes as seen in dreams, compensatory and complementary meanings, mythological and archetypal motifs, prognosis from dreams and the use of dreams in the individuation process.

PSYT 510
Yoga and the Chakras: The Transpersonal Embodied (3)
We practice a gentle form of the ancient discipline of Hatha yoga that is grounded in self-compassion. Through conscious breathing, physical postures and contemplation, we deepen awareness and cultivate a felt sense of the flow of life force through the seven chakras in the body. Each of these vital centers energetically reflects the developmental patterning of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of our being. As we encounter habitually held patterns, we release blocked energy and experience greater fluidity, vitality, balance and body/mind integration. Lecture is included on the relevance of this practice for self-healing and personal development.

PSYT 512/312
Qi Training: The Qigong method of Bai Mei Kung Fu (2)
Bai Mei Qigong is a powerful system that traces its lineage back to Bodhidharma. Using static and moving forms, it unblocks Qi flows, allowing one to experience an overall increase in energy, stamina and health. Training the body in balance, alignment and grounded movement, students work with developing sensitivity or the ability to listen to the world around them.

PSYT 517e
Multicultural Issues: Contemplative Approaches (2)
In traditional cultures, healing occurs within community. There is a deep understanding of shared wounds and the shared responsibility as well as a desire to work together toward healing. We begin our work from within, looking to the past for aid and guidance. From there we return to the present to bring understanding to our own personal and cultural wounds. We explore our own cultural backgrounds and, from this place, sit as compassionate witnesses to the pain and struggle of others. In community, we facilitate healing using storytelling, ritual, meditation and guided imagery. We explore new ways to experience our shared humanness through deep wisdom, caring and understanding. Required for MATP students. Online fees apply.
This class is also available noncredit online. Click here for registration details.

PSYT 521
Touching the Moment: Indelible Presence (2)
Mindfulness meditation—the art of “coming home to ourselves”—is both a method of restoring our connection to the vitality of our own life, and a way to develop presence for our work with others. This five-day residential rural group retreat, appropriate for beginning as well as experienced meditators, includes shamatha sitting meditation, contemplative movement practice, experiential dharma art, periods of silence, work practice, mindful eating and outdoor walking meditation. Individual meditation instruction, as well as daily lectures and discussion are included. Prerequisite: PSYT 621, REL 600 or permission of instructor. Extra fees apply.

PSYT 528
Counseling Loss, Grief and Life Transitions (2)
This class familiarizes the student with grief and transition theory and trains them in individual and family grief counseling skills. Using lecture, discussion and experiential exercises, the class supports students as they explore both their personal and family loss histories and develop a theoretical working basis for serving clients facing illness, aging and bereavement.

PSYT 543
Human Sexuality: From Birth to Therapy (2)
Too often, sexuality suffers the same fate in therapy as it does in this culture: it is hidden, not to be discussed, treated as irrelevant. Students examine issues related to sexuality that clients might bring to therapy, consciously or unconsciously. Students start by looking at what they as therapists bring to their work and explore personal and cultural aspects of sex, touch, intimacy, passion, the body, erotica and pornography, developmental issues, alternative lifestyles, transpersonal elements and more. Guest speakers are included.

PSYT 544
Maitri Space Awareness and Art (2)
The principles and practice of Maitri Space Awareness are introduced. Maitri Space Awareness rests upon an ancient wisdom tradition that appreciates the world in terms of five archetypal energetic principles. Joining the art experience with Maitri practice offers the opportunity to heighten sensitivity, open the heart and refine perceptions as to how these energetic principles color responsiveness to others and the environment. Students examine how they manifest in ways that constrict experience, thus limiting perceptions, and appreciate them as expressions of an inherent wakefulness that promotes openness, connectedness, authenticity and kindness.

PSYT 562
Gold in the Shadow (1)
Jung defined the shadow as the part of the psyche that contains the “negative side of the personality, the sum of all those unpleasant qualities we like to hide, together with the insufficiently developed functions and contents of the personal unconscious.” Students explore ways of accessing shadow material to increase consciousness, develop creativity and further individuation—to mine for the gold in the personal. MA and upper-division BA only.

PSYT 601
Gestalt I: Awareness (3)
The foundations of Gestalt awareness are explored experientially with individual, dyadic and group exercises. Central concepts of wholeness, present-centered awareness, self-responsibility, body awareness, contact and boundary disturbances are introduced. The basic form of a Gestalt experiment is demonstrated and the stages of the process are learned. Transpersonal roots, community building and development of the I-Thou relationship as the basis of therapeutic work are emphasized. Program students only.

PSYT 603e
Meditation for Social Change Leaders (3)
Students develop skills that cultivate mindfulness, awareness and compassion in order to be effective agents of social change. Mindful breathing, sitting meditation and sensory awareness exercises are introduced along with a view of leadership that includes personal sustainability. This course combines online delivery with a three-day, on-campus component. Online fees apply.
This class is also available noncredit online. Click here for registration details.

PSYT 604
Foundations of Art Therapy (2)
This studio lab closely parallels the content covered in History and Theory of Art Therapy (PSYT 634). Practice with various art therapy techniques and art media is covered in detail. Application of theory is addressed through the investigation of art-based interventions that support the formation of a productive therapeutic relationship when working within various theoretical models. Students integrate counseling skills and awareness practice with art therapy techniques throughout the semester. AT only.

PSYT 607e
Integral Psychology (3)
Integral Psychology is a course designed to take the student on a three dimensional journey towards a deep understanding of this meta-theoretical approach to psychology. First it involves an examination of the theory of Integral Psychology as the Fifth Force or Wave in the historical development of the discipline of psychology. Secondly, it includes a critical analysis of Integral theory as it evolved in Ken Wilber’s body of work. And, throughout the course, students will apply this evolutionary theory of consciousness in their own lives through the development of an on-going Integral Life Practice. Online fees apply.
This class is also available noncredit online. Click here for registration details.

PSYT 608, 618
Transpersonal Psychology Intensive I, II (3)
These weeklong courses introduce MATP students to transpersonal psychology and provide in-depth exposure to current issues and developments in the field. They also provide the opportunity for community building, face-to-face instruction in transpersonal processes such as meditation and ritual, and application of topics from the online courses. Students are expected to prepare for the course prior to attending and to complete a written assignment after the course. MATP and ECOC only.

PSYT 609
Wilderness Therapy Intensive: Introduction to Wilderness Therapy (2)
The distinct disciplines that define Wilderness Therapy in the Transpersonal Counseling Psychology program are examined. We explore how diverse disciplines can be combined in an effective therapy model that serves people and environment. Students gain understanding of how their personalities and experience influence their role as therapists. The class format is a combination of experiential activities, lectures, discussion and reflection. WT only.

PSYT 610
Therapeutic Applications of Human Development: Child, Adult, Career (3)
We study human development from birth through the span of life. This course provides an introduction to some of the major developmental theorists as well as some of the applications of these theories. The material is presented through lecture, presentations, readings, class discussion, observations and self-exploration as well as personal experience. The purpose of this course is to develop an intellectual and theoretical knowledge of human development as well as insightful understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. Issues related to career development are woven into the course material. Additionally, developmental issues and their implications in psychotherapy are woven throughout the course. Students deepen their understanding and use of developmental models in therapy. Prerequisite: Course in basic human development.

PSYT 611
Counseling Relationships I: Techniques and Practice (2)
The first semester of a yearlong course focused on learning the essential elements of establishing a counseling relationship and specific skills necessary for effective counseling. Students develop effective listening and responding skills and begin to establish the foundations for becoming a transpersonal counselor. Students demonstrate presence, empathy, active listening, boundaries and facility with verbal and nonverbal communication. Diversity, self-examination and contemplation, the stages of therapy, ethics and the prevention of burnout are also discussed. Open to TCP students only. PSYT 611 and PSYT 661 must be taken consecutively.

PSYT 612
Counseling Relationship I/Wilderness Therapy:Techniques and Practice (2)
The first semester of a yearlong course focusing on learning the essential elements of the counseling relationship and specific skills necessary for effective counseling, including wilderness therapy. Students develop a personal under-standing of presence, empathy, boundaries, nonverbal communication and working with conflict. Class time consists of lecture, discussion and experiential practice. PSYT 612 and PSYT 662 must be taken consecutively. WT only.

PSYT 620
Authentic Movement/Transpersonal (2)
Authentic Movement, a self-directed movement process employing the wisdom of the body as a pathway to awareness, provides direct experience of the individual and collective body as a vessel for integration, healing, transformation and creative process. This course explores the ground form of Authentic Movement: the mover, witness and the relationship between them. Students explore their own process while experiencing this therapeutic movement form. Through learning how to increase the authenticity of presence, students explore the ground of the healing relationship. Authentic Movement provides a model for life lived in authentic relationship to self, others and community.

PSYT 621
Psychology of Meditation I: Mindfulness Training (3)
Mindfulness, the ability to be fully present, is essential for the skillful counselor. This course introduces the practice of mindful breathing (shamatha-vipashyana) sitting meditation drawn from the Buddhist tradition as a means of developing moment-to-moment awareness. Methods for cultivating wakefulness within daily life situations are explored. Group practice sessions, lectures, discussions and individual meditation instruction are provided.

PSYT 624
Art Therapy Studio: Process and Materials (2)
Contemplative practice is carefully integrated with the investigation of various art processes and materials throughout the semester. The open studio model is followed, allowing for students to practice mindfulness through process painting, drawing and sculpture projects. Commitment to personal and transpersonal imagery is encouraged as an essential part of understanding one’s identity as an artist, the purpose of the therapeutic community and contemplative models for practicing art therapy. Prerequisites: PSYT 604 and PSYT 634. AT only.

PSYT 627
Contemplative Perspectives and Practice I (1)
The course supports students in continuing their training in mindfulness practice and explores the use of contemplative practice in the context of personal development and working with others, particularly in wilderness settings. In addition to group sitting practice, students engage in several periods of extended silent activity in order to deepen mindfulness in wilderness settings. WT only.

PSYT 629
Family Systems Interventions: Equine-Assisted Settings (1.5)
This course examines the clinical applications of family systems theoretical knowledge, with a focus on equine-assisted settings. Students experience various interventions and develop skill through hands-on practice. Specific family issues (e.g. divorce, blended families, abuse) are explored using family systems approaches. WT only.

PSYT 630
Level I Training in GIM: Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (2)
The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) is a “music-centered” experiential therapy used to access and explore the human psyche. Developed and researched by Dr. Helen Bonny in the early seventies, GIM is a primary psychotherapeutic modality leading to insight, emotional release and core integration of body, mind and spirit. This course is held in a residential retreat setting. Additional fee for room and board. Extra fees apply.

PSYT 634
History and Theory of Art Therapy (3)
Students explore various historical and theoretical trends in art therapy, focusing on the contributions of early pioneers and contemporary practitioners. Various approaches to the practice of art therapy are highlighted (depth psychology, humanistic, cognitive/behavioral) with specific attention devoted to models of contemplative and transpersonal art therapy, creativity and strategies to employ when looking at artwork and when establishing a therapeutic relationship through art. AT only.

PSYT 642
Holotropic Breathwork (1)
Out of more than three decades of extensive research, Stanislav Grof has presented a map of the unconscious that challenges contemporary mechanistic models and offers important new insights into psychotherapeutic process. Grof’s model and his method for accessing and integrating deeper levels of the psyche is the focus of this weekend workshop. Grof’s method, Holotropic Breathwork, uses music, vigorous breathing, bodywork and mandala drawing to access and integrate deep levels of the psyche. This process is not appropriate for people with severe psychological problems or certain physical conditions such as pregnancy, heart disease, glaucoma, epilepsy or infectious diseases.

PSYT 647
Contemplative Perspectives and Practice II (1)
The examination of contemplative and mindfulness practices within the wilderness therapy context is continued. Students are introduced to practices of tonglen and loving-kindness (metta practice), which cultivate compassion in oneself and toward others and the natural world. Students deepen their own sitting meditation practice. WT only.

PSYT 651
Gestalt II: Experiment (3)
Demonstrations of individual and group experiments are followed by didactic learning that further explores the central Gestalt themes. The concepts of organicity, figure-ground perceptual fields, polarities, top-dog/underdog, the four explosions, contact boundary and satisfaction/frustration are explored. The process of a therapeutic experiment is introduced, and students learn to identify stages of a Gestalt working. Students work under the supervision of the teacher. If this class is not successfully completed, both Gestalt I and Gestalt II must be retaken together. Prerequisite: PSYT 601.

PSYT 656
Ecopsychology Intensive I (1)
The course focuses on advanced topics within ecopsychology, further builds community within the program and aims to teach specific skills for working with individuals and groups in an ecopsychological context. The students’ meditation practice and an understanding of its importance in ecopsychology are deepened. Prerequisites: Completion of PSYT 608 and ENV 565e. Open to first-year students in the Ecopsychology concentration within MATP only.

PSYT 657e
Integral Psychology II (3)
In this advanced course, students with a working knowledge of Wilber's Integral Psychology focus on the application of integral theory through an individual student-designed project in art, spirituality or business. Organized around project development, application and presentation, the course emphasizes collaboration among a community of learners. Prerequisite: PSYT 607e or proficiency with Wilber’s AQAL integral model is required. This course is for advanced students of Wilber’s Integral Psychology. Online fees apply.

PSYT 660
Assessment and Appraisal in Counseling (3)
An overview of individual and group approaches to assessment and evaluation, as these have developed historically from a traditional educational and psychological perspective through a more focused counseling perspective, with suggested applications appropriate for transpersonal and contemplative practitioners. The course covers basic topics of standardized and non-standardized testing and other assessment techniques including inventories, observations and computer managed methods. Topics include psychometric statistics; factors related to the assessment and evaluation of individuals, groups and special populations; case conceptualization; assessment; and diagnosis. Ethical and legal considerations are integrated throughout the course. Issues of diversity related to the development of and selection of assessment instruments are also explored.

PSYT 661
Counseling Relationship II (3)
During the second semester of this class, students deepen their practice and understanding of effective counseling skills by doing a six-week practicum with another student. The class also covers the following topics: transference; projection; resistance; lifestyles; diversity; suicide; beginning, middle and end phases of therapy; and beginning and ending the session. Counseling Relationship I and II must be successfully completed before undertaking second year clinical studies. Prerequisite: PSYT 611.

PSYT 662
Counseling Relationship II/Wilderness Therapy (3)
A continuation of PSYT 612. Students deepen their practice and understanding of effective counseling skills by doing a six-week practicum with another student. The class also covers the following topics: transference; projection; resistance; lifestyles; diversity; suicide; and beginning, middle and end phases of therapy. Particular attention is given to these topics as they relate to working in outdoor settings. WT only. Prerequisite: PSYT 612.

PSYT 667
Ecopsychology Intensive II (1)
Building on previous courses, this course teaches theories and techniques of specific applications and practices for ecopsychology facilitators. Students have a chance to both observe these practices and practice them in the intensive course. A second purpose of this course is face-to-face community building in the low-residency MATP Ecopsychology program. An in-depth self-assessment paper is required. Prerequisite: PSYT 656. Open to low-residency Ecopsychology students only.

PSYT 670/670e
Transpersonal Psychology I (3)
An introduction and examination of central concepts, theories, practices and applications of transpersonal psychology. The on-campus sections are designed for students in the transpersonal counseling programs. These sections extend counseling and psychology into transpersonal areas. The theories of the central figures in the field are discussed and compared as well as the roots of transpersonal psychology in the world wisdom traditions and multicultural considerations. Students learn counseling applications of transpersonal psychology. The online section of this course explores foundations of transpersonal psychology and applications to meditation, ritual, ecopsychology, psychological research, multicultural diversity and other areas. All sections blend intellectual exploration, practice and self-reflection. Online fees apply (670e).
This class is also available noncredit online. Click here for registration details.

PSYT 671
Psychology of Meditation II: Applications to Counseling (2)
This course builds on the foundation provided by PSYT 621. Topics presented through lectures and readings deepen the understanding of essential principles of meditative awareness. The specific focus of the course is the way meditation can support the counseling relationship. Prerequisites: PSYT 621 and PSYT 720.

PSYT 672e
Transpersonal Psychology II: Theorists and Applications (3)
This course serves as a continuation of Transpersonal Psychology I and focuses on particular theorists and applications of transpersonal psychology in a variety of areas. Prerequisite: PSYT 670e or an equivalent introduction to transpersonal psychology. Online fees apply.
This class is also available noncredit online. Click here for registration details.

PSYT 680
Group Dynamics and Leadership I (1)
Group Dynamics and Leadership is divided into two sections: large group lecture (PSYT 680, 1 cr.) and small group process and discussion (PSYT 682, 2 cr.), taken concurrently. This course teaches a combination of techniques drawn from Gestalt, existential, psychodynamic, systems and other approaches to group therapy. PSYT 680, the didactic section, consists of five three-hour, large group lectures covering topics such as stages of group development, levels of intervention, transference and countertransference, group maintenance, multicultural issues and others. Taken concurrently with PSYT 682.

PSYT 681
Gestalt Community Intensive (2)
Designed as a summer intensive in an off-campus setting, this course provides further opportunities for the integration of the Gestalt approach for the beginner and mastery of skills for the more advanced learner. Students are provided the opportunity to explore their own process in a community setting. Special fees apply. (Off-campus setting may include retreat, equine and wilderness.)

PSYT 682
Group Dynamics and Leadership II (2)
This experimental portion of the Group Dynamics and Leadership course is taken in conjunction with PSYT 680. This course meets ten times during the semester in small groups for three hours each session. Course content includes experiential and practice work with discussion. Prerequisite: PSYT 661. Taken concurrently with PSYT 680.

PSYT 685
Ecopsychology Training (3)
Ecopsychology explores human-nature relationships and the implications of a deeper connection between human and nature for mental health, personal growth, environmental action and sustainable lifestyles. This advanced course assumes an understanding of the theory and practices of ecopsychology. It is directed toward the interface of ecology, transpersonal psychology and contemplative practice (i.e., nature, psyche and spirit); critical evaluation of ecopsychological thinking; and the development and use of ecopsychology practices in personal and professional applications. Prerequisite: ENV 565e.

PSYT 700
Research, Statistics and Psychological Testing (3)
Research methods, statistics and psychological testing as they apply to counseling psychology and psychotherapy are covered. Topics include philosophical issues in research; research ethics; literature search issues; types of research methods; tests and assessments; descriptive and inferential statistics; experimental and correlational methods; and the structure of research reports. Issues of diversity related to selection of research samples and the development of psychological tests are explored. The course seeks to be applicable and useful for both professional and personal growth and includes lecture, discussion and exercises. The course is designed to be as experiential as possible.

PSYT 704
Group Dynamics and Leadership (Art Therapy Emphasis) (3)
The principles of group psychotherapy and group art psychotherapy with different populations are integrated. Included in the course are basic concepts and theories about group dynamics including development, mechanics, problems and styles, and tasks of leadership. Class consists of lecture, writing and experiential processes. Prerequisite: PSYT 654. AT only. Lab fee.

PSYT 706
Group Dynamics and Outdoor Leadership I (2)
This two-semester course explores the theory, practice and experience of groups with special considerations for working in wilderness settings. Topics include group maintenance, stages, characteristics, dynamics and process; therapeutic factors; interventions; risks and benefits of group work; and cultural and ethical concerns. Students explore and develop their style of group participation and outdoor leadership. WT only.

PSYT 707
Adult and Special Populations Interventions: Wilderness Therapy Settings (3)
This course exposes students to therapeutic interventions, drawing primarily from adventure therapy, ecotherapy and Gestalt. Focus is on adults and on issues related to addictions and trauma. Learning happens initially through demonstration and participation followed by students practicing with peers. WT only.

PSYT 708
Outdoor Skills I: Equine, Mountains, Climbing, Canyons and Ropes Courses (1.5)
Students hone basic outdoor skills for the backcountry and develop technical skills specific to equine, mountains, canyons, climbing and ropes courses settings. Topics include safety and risk management for each setting; equipment selection, usage, and maintenance; trip planning; group organization; and primitive skills. WT only.

PSYT 710
Family Systems (3)
An entry-level examination of family process and family counseling. Drawing from a systems approach, the student learns how to shift his or her focus from the individual to the dynamic interplay between members of a couple or family. Major schools of family therapy are studied. Experiential exercises and role-playing complement the theoretical learning. Students explore their own family of origin as a ground for working with others. Trauma in the family, such as child abuse and domestic violence, is also covered. Prerequisite: PSYT 610.

PSYT 711
Transforming Addictions (2)
The physical, mental, emotional and spiritual nature of alcohol and drug dependency and other addictive behaviors is explored. Assessment, therapeutic techniques, intervention and in-patient and out-patient treatment are discussed. Students explore the contributions, as well as the strengths and weaknesses, of 12-step and other self-help recovery groups. The interrelationship of alcohol and drug abuse and other addictive behaviors with attachment and bonding disruptions in early childhood and childhood trauma is also investigated. Lectures, guest lectures, discussions, role-play and other experiential techniques are used.

PSYT 712
Advanced Group Training (1)
This course is intended to provide a mentored hands-on experience for the student already familiar with basic group theory and process and with the fundamentals of Gestalt therapy. Particular attention is paid to incorporat-ing techniques from Gestalt therapy into group process in a way that encourages interpersonal interaction and group development. In other words, we move “beyond the hot seat” to take full advantage of group process. The class emphasizes moving among levels of intervention: intrapsychic, interpersonal and group. Group members get the chance to observe, practice and process group skills.

PSYT 714
Multicultural Issues in Therapy (1)
Cultural differences within society as well as the dynamics of oppression and stereotyping are explored. Students also examine their own cultural heritage and socialization. Issues concerning work with clients of different cultures are discussed.

PSYT 717
Civic Engagement Community Practicum (1)
The studio environment is discussed and studied in detail. Students work in dyads and groups, exploring various art-based methods that foster self-inquiry. Integrity of materials, ways to set up a studio, ethics of a studio and forty-five hours of practicum are included. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all previous art therapy and counseling courses. AT only.

PSYT 719
Ecopsychology: Transpersonal Perspectives (2)
Transpersonal psychology in the field of ecopsychology is addressed. Major themes of ecopsychology we explore include the human-nature relationship; disconnection from the natural world; practices for reestablishing and deepening our connection with the natural world; and ecotherapy. Students are exposed to diverse perspectives in the field and are asked to develop and articulate their own point of view. WT only.

PSYT 720
Meditation Practicum I: Cultivating Awareness (1)
This course is designed to support students in continuing the practice of mindfulness-awareness meditation begun in PSYT 621. Specific topics include applications of mindful-awareness to creativity, healing and social action. Students meet in small groups for sitting and walking meditation sessions and discussion. Individual meditation instruction is provided. Prerequisite: PSYT 621.

PSYT 723
Trauma, Disassociation and Gestalt: Working with Abused Children
from a Gestalt Perspective (1)
A three-part model addressing the therapeutic needs of the traumatized child is presented. The original impact of trauma and the resulting dissociation is laid out as the foundation of our work. Gestalt is used as the language that speaks to an abused child’s inner conflict. No previous Gestalt experience is required.

PSYT 726
Group Dynamics and Outdoor Leadership II: Facilitation (3)
This two-semester course explores the theory, practice and experience of groups with special considerations for working in wilderness settings. Topics include group maintenance, stages, characteristics, dynamics and process; therapeutic factors; interventions; risks and benefits of group work; and cultural and ethical concerns. Students explore and develop their style of group participation and outdoor leadership. WT only.

PSYT 728
Outdoor Skills II: Integrated Basecamp, Horticulture, River, Rites of Passage (1)
In the second semester of this yearlong class, students continue to hone outdoor skills associated with specific settings. Topics include physical and emotional safety; risk management; technical skills applicable to the setting; equipment use and maintenance; planning and organization; travel and living within the setting. Additional focus is placed on trip planning for specific therapeutic populations. WT only.

PSYT 730
Incest and Sexual Abuse (2)
An introduction to working with clients that have the experience of sexual abuse or incest in their history. We look at the definition, assessment, history, causes, effects and treatment of sexual abuse and incest. Students explore their own process, the process of the client and the process of healing in this area from both a personal and systemic perspective.

PSYT 732
Clinical Improvisation/Music Therapy (2)
This course focuses on using clinical improvisation as a therapeutic tool. Philosophies and techniques of clinical improvisation are studied through a combination of lecture, workshop, peer supervision and class presentations. Students deepen their understanding of how music is used as an agent of change and a diagnostic tool in clinical work. Case studies from practicum sites are addressed with emphasis on the musical aspects of the therapist/client interaction. Students explore Nordoff-Robbins music therapy techniques and experience group improvisation as part of this class. Prerequisite: Must be enrolled in PSYT 735.

PSYT 734
Counseling with Child and Adolescent Populations (Art Therapy Emphasis) (3)
An examination of the psychological, psychosocial, cognitive, creative and spiritual development of children from birth to nineteen as it relates to the practice of art therapy. Through readings, discussion, practice sessions with children, experiential exercises and assignments, students focus on understanding development, art assessment, approaches to treatment and the practice of art therapy with a variety of child and adolescent populations. AT only.

PSYT 736
Ecology and Natural History I: Observations (1)
This course (primarily a field course) provides a basic foundation in ecological principles through the natural history of the Rocky Mountain region. Observation and discussion deepen students’ understanding of key ecological patterns, principles and processes as well as human-nature relationships. Therapeutic applications of the material are explored. WT only.

PSYT 738e
Transpersonal Service Learning I (1.5)
Students apply and deepen their learning through service. With guidance from program faculty, students arrange a service-learning project in an area of their choice. Course lectures, reading and discussion support this learning by examining the nature of transpersonal approaches to service and by providing a forum for interaction and support among students and faculty. MATP and ECOC only. Online fees apply.
This class is also available noncredit online. Click here for registration details.

PSYT 742
Nature and Art: Expressive Therapies (2)
This course provides the opportunity to explore creative mediums that can be used in wilderness settings. Students sample basic exercises from expressive therapies in areas such as poetry, nature writing, art, storytelling and music. Over the course of the semester, students explore in depth the personal expression and therapeutic applications of one creative medium of their choice. WT only.

PSYT 745
Gestalt Dreamwork (1)
Fritz Perls heralded the dream as “the most spontaneous of our creations.” Each character, object and landscape is an as yet unowned aspect of ourselves. By owning the many parts of the dream through dramatic enactment one broadens, diversifies and heals the split between self and world. The process of assimilation reverses the projection of unidentified aspects of the self-revealing life, creativity and wholeness. The fantastical nature of the dream is brought to awareness through experiential exercises that are sensory, concrete and spontaneous. The course includes Gestalt dreamwork theory, demonstration, practice facilitation and discussion of clinical and therapeutic applications.

PSYT 748e
Transpersonal Service Learning II (1.5)
This is the second of a two-semester sequence in which students apply and deepen their study of transpersonal psychology through service. This semester, students complete the service-learning project begun in Transpersonal Service Learning I and complete a written paper integrating their learning with theory and research in their area of service and with understanding of transpersonal service. Online lectures, reading and discussion support this learning. MATP and ECOC only. Online fees apply.
This class is also available noncredit online. Click here for registration details.

PSYT 752
Child and Adolescent Interventions: Wilderness Therapy Settings (3)
This course exposes students to therapeutic interventions, drawing primarily from adventure therapy, ecotherapy and Gestalt. Focus is on interventions with children and adolescents. Learning happens through demonstration and participation as well as by students practicing with peers. WT only.

PSYT 754
Counseling for Adult Populations (3)
(Art Therapy Emphasis)
This course addresses art-based, clinical and developmental approaches to art therapy treatment with adult clients from specific DSM-IV categories. Special attention to cognitive/contemplative models is stressed throughout the semester. Organization of treatment plans, documentation and assessment for adult populations are covered and integrated. Prerequisite: PSYT 704. AT only.

PSYT 755
Theories and Practice in Career Counseling I (1.5)
The first of a two-semester course, this four-day intensive fulfills part I of Theories and Practice in Career Counseling. Part II is offered in a four-day intensive in the spring semester. This course addresses career counseling, career development and adult transition from a transpersonal point of view. Students learn the central theories of career development and key assessment instruments for life/career planning and career decision making. Career counseling skills and processes are explored and practiced including those applicable to specific populations. We explore the interrelationships between work, family and other life roles as it relates to creating a balanced life/career. Ethical and legal considerations, career development programming and evaluation, occupational and labor market information, and web-based resources are also explored and utilized.

PSYT 759
Transitions, Lifestyles and Career Development (3)
This course addresses career counseling, career development and adult transition from a holistic and transpersonal point of view. Students learn the central theories of career development. Key assessment instruments for life/career planning and decision making are reviewed. Career counseling skills and processes are explored including those applicable to specific populations. The course explores the interrelationships between work, family and other life roles including the role of diversity and gender in career development. Ethical and legal considerations, career development programming and evaluation, occupational and labor market information, and web-based resources are studied.

PSYT 763
Gestalt Therapy and Breathwork (1)
Inhalation and exhalation, expansion and contraction emulate the movement of all life. In Gestalt theory, we utilize breath in awareness and in deepening the experiment. This class explores Gestalt theory and the use of breath in dealing with resistance, bringing about emotional presence, sustaining life’s vitality, energizing and bringing about calmness.

PSYT 764
Clinical Practicum (2)
(Art Therapy students only)
This course provides an opportunity for students to develop and put into practice basic art therapy, clinical counseling skills, treatment planning, administration of art therapy and assessment, as well as gain general experience through a 45-hour practicum in area agencies, hospitals, schools or other settings. Emphasis is on developing and deepening observational and hands-on skills that integrate both clinical knowledge and contemplative practice. Prerequisite: Completion of first and second year art therapy and transpersonal counseling courses. AT only.

PSYT 765
Theories and Practice in Career Counseling II (1.5)
A continuation of PSYT 755.

PSYT 770
Meditation Practicum II: Developing Compassion (1)
The development of compassion as the basis of the counseling relationship is explored in this course through the practice of tonglen (exchange of self and other) from the Buddhist tradition. Specific topics include the application of tonglen to the healing process, death and bereavement, social action and preventing burnout. Group sessions of sitting and walking meditations, discussions and individual instruction are provided. Prerequisites: PSYT 621 and PSYT 720.

PSYT 771
Marriage and Couples Therapy (2)
This class focuses on developing a working knowledge of marriage therapy using different models, with emphases on diversity and Jungian couple’s therapy as well as neurobiology and gender research. Students are asked to draw from their own knowledge as they prepare to support working couples.

PSYT 772
Hakomi (2)
Using the Hakomi Method as a foundation, the class studies, explores and experiences the integrated use of the transpersonal, the personal and the body in psychotherapy. Emphasis is on grounding transpersonal perspectives and experiences into everyday life. Hakomi is a method of mindful attention to the body and special states of consciousness. It is especially suited to the purpose of bringing the transpersonal realms into present-felt experience. This experiential class explores the principles of Hakomi and provides introductory practice with some of the techniques.

PSYT 774
Multicultural Issues in Therapy II (1)
Students will have already learned some of the basics about privilege, oppression and identity formation. This follow-up course allows for greater depth and understanding into the multicultural issues involved with various cultural groups that might be encountered during the course of therapeutic work. We explore in more detail the breadth and complexities of the issues that are involved, consider more deeply identity formation and work more with culture specific material. We incorporate experiential exercises, panels and/or speakers, as well as case scenarios. Prerequisite: PSYT 714.

PSYT 780
Therapy with Children and Adolescents (2)
This course focuses on essentials of therapy with children, adolescents and the family system in which they live. Diagnostic treatment techniques that pertain directly to working with children are covered. Students look at children from a developmental perspective, tying developmental issues to emotional issues for the involved children and their “parents.” Students explore and practice treatment techniques: where, how and why they can be used. The class examines issues such as learning disabilities, adoption, suicide, guardianship, ADD and ADHD, child abuse, reporting issues and related issues. Prerequisite: PSYT 600 or PSYT 610.

PSYT 782
Approaches to Couples Counseling (1)
Intensive two-day workshop on Imago Relationship Therapy Theory as developed by Harville Hendrix, author of Getting the Love You Want and Keeping the Love You Find. Both didactic information and experiential exercises are presented, including concrete and effective tools for working with couples, such as Behavior Change Request and the Parent Child Dialogue. Students gain confidence in their ability to understand and deal with relationship dynamics, childhood wounds, developmental stages, projections, defenses, symbiosis, power struggles and shadow issues. Prerequisites: PSYT 611, PSYT 661.

PSYT 791
Advanced Child and Adolescent Therapy (1)
This advanced course for working with children, adolescents and their families focuses on turning the theory of previous classes into the practical. Many case studies and demonstrations with class members as family members are used. Students receive the opportunity to practice with other students as well as present their own “cases.” The instructor uses a model that integrates developmental process, Gestalt, psychodrama and family therapy. Prerequisites: PSYT 600 and PSYT 780.

PSYT 800
Field Placement I (2)
The student works a total of 700 hours in community agency settings.

PSYT 802
Counseling Practicum (1)
The Counseling Practicum is designed to provide a supportive and instructional forum for students’ initial experience seeing clients in a clinical setting. The practicum provides for the development of counseling skills under supervision, utilizing both small group and one-on-one settings. Students should be prepared to discuss professional and personal issues as they relate to their development as a therapist. Topics might include specific client issues and clinical decision making, client transference and therapist countertransference, as well as dynamics of the student-supervisory relationship, organizational issues at the site and balancing personal and professional responsibilities. Prerequisite: PSYT 810.

PSYT 803
Counseling Practicum: Wilderness Therapy (1)
See course description for PSYT 802. WT only.

PSYT 804
Field Placement I: Art Therapy (2)
Students work as art therapy interns for a minimum of 700 hours in community agencies, hospitals, schools and other institutions according to AATA guidelines. At least 350 hours of direct client contact is supplemented by treatment team meetings, documentation, clinical supervision and in-service training. Prerequisite: All required Art Therapy and Transpersonal Counseling Psychology courses.

PSYT 806
Field Placement I: Wilderness Therapy (2)
The student works a total of 700 hours in community agency settings. WT only.

PSYT 810
Professional Seminar and Ethics I (1.5)
The Professional Seminar is designed to provide a supportive and instructional forum for students currently enrolled in field placement. We are concerned with practical, theoretical and personal issues related to the internship such as ethics, therapeutic technique and style, diversity issues, transference and countertransference. Students should be prepared to discuss personal and professional issues as they relate to specific cases or to their internship in general. Prerequisite: Must be enrolled in PSYT 800.

PSYT 814
Professional Seminar and Ethics I: Art Therapy (3)
Students explore the ethical and legal issues of clinical practice and standards of practice. Assessment, confidentiality, treatment planning, documentation and the development of a professional identity are explored. Students prepare a written case study (six to eight sessions in length) and regularly present case material and artwork to the class for discussion. Prerequisite: All Art Therapy and Transpersonal Counseling Psychology courses. AT only.

PSYT 816
Professional Seminar and Ethics: Wilderness Therapy (1.5)
The professional seminar is designed to provide a supportive and instructional forum for students currently enrolled in field placement. Concern is on practical, theoretical and personal issues related to the internship such as ethics, therapeutic technique and style, diversity issues, transference and countertransference. Students should be prepared to discuss personal and professional issues as they relate to specific cases or to their internship in general. Prerequisite: Must be enrolled in PSYT 806. WT only.

PSYT 824
Internship Studio Methods I (0.5)
This course complements the work covered in Professional Seminar and Ethics I by using various studio methods and virtual art techniques to explore the fieldwork experience in terms of transference and countertransference, parallel process, projective identification response, art making, self-care, ethics and professional role identity. AT only.

PSYT 839e
Master’s Paper Online I (1.5)
The first of a two-course sequence in which students apply and deepen their learning of transpersonal psychology through completion of a major written paper. The final paper should provide a definition of transpersonal psychology, a literature review of a particular topic, and critical and creative inquiry into a transpersonal approach to the topic. The paper should also include self-reflection of the student’s relationship to the topic. Students work closely with the instructor, an expert reader and classmates. The online course environment provides support for the process of writing this paper. In the first-semester course, students produce an outline and proposal for their paper and 10–20 page literature review of their chosen topic. Online fees apply.
This class is also available noncredit online. Click here for registration details.

PSYT 844
Internship Studio Methods II (0.5)
This course complements the work covered in Professional Seminar and Ethics II by using various studio methods and techniques to explore the fieldwork experience in terms of transference and countertransference, parallel process, projective identification, ethics and professional role identity. AT only.

PSYT 846
Research Project I (0.5)
The first of a two-semester research project that applies concepts of evaluation, assessment and research to an important current issue in counseling psychology and/or psychotherapy. Students choose to participate in one of several ongoing research or evaluation projects offered by the department. They may assist in design, data gathering, analysis, interpretation and documentation of one major research or evaluation project. Students may write a formal project paper by the end of the second semester, describing the research and results, using APA publishable format and participate in a presentation of research.

PSYT 850
Field Placement II (2)
A continuation of PSYT 800.

PSYT 854
Field Placement II: Art Therapy (2)
A continuation of PSYT 804.

PSYT 856
Field Placement II: Wilderness Therapy (2)
A continuation of PSYT 806. WT only.

PSYT 860
Professional Seminar and Ethics II (2.5)
A continuation of PSYT 810. If this class is not successfully completed, both Professional Seminar I and II must be retaken in sequence. Prerequisite: Must be enrolled in PSYT 850, Field Placement II.

PSYT 864
Professional Seminar and Ethics II: Art Therapy (3)
This weekly seminar, led by a registered art therapist, covers professional issues related to assessment, treatment planning, documentation, clarification and application of theoretical orientation, transference and countertransference and various legal and ethical topics. Throughout the semester, students present case material, eventually formulating a coherent case study to be presented at the departmental orals. If one fails to successfully complete this class, both Professional Seminar I and II must be retaken together. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all required Art Therapy and Transpersonal Counseling Psychology courses. AT only.

PSYT 866
Professional Seminar and Ethics II: Wilderness Therapy (2.5)
A continuation of PSYT 816. If this class is not successfully completed, Professional Seminar I and II must be retaken in sequence. Prerequisite: Must be enrolled in PSYT 856. WT only.

PSYT 876
Research Project II (0.5)
A continuation of PSYT 846.

PSYT 880e
Master’s Paper Online II (1.5)
The second of a two-course sequence in which students complete a major written paper on a topic of their choice. In the second-semester course, students complete the paper. Online fees apply.
This class is also available noncredit online. Click here for registration details.