Courses

PSYB 100
Anatomy (3)
A traditional approach to the study of normal human anatomy, rooted in the conventional science of anatomy, studying the structure and subsequent function of the major body systems: skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, immune, digestive, blood, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary and reproductive systems. Some practical understanding of these major systems is given from a naturopathic physician/acupuncturist’s perspective. One class briefly introduces energetic systems of anatomy (e.g. meridians, chakras). Special fee to cover two optional visits to a cadaver lab. Fee will be refunded if student chooses not to participate.

PSYB 101
Introduction to Western Psychology (3)
This survey course explores psychology as it has developed in the Western world. Students learn to better understand mental life and behavior by studying diverse Western traditions that range from laboratory science to the intuitive clinical work involving clients and therapist. Specifically, students develop familiarity with many of the distinct perspectives, concepts and terms of Western psychology. Topics covered include brain function, consciousness, perception, learning, thought, maturation, emotion, personality, mental illness and therapy. Understanding these topics is deepened by critically evaluating Western psychological frameworks with respect to each student’s own experience.

PSYB 208
Embodying Process and the Individual (3)
The body is the vessel of emotions, the vehicle for actions and the tool of perceptions. Culturally, we have been trained to ignore bodily processes. This class examines the role of bodily experience in the unfolding of life’s process. Out of a study of sensation, energy, emotion, perception, movement, breath, speech and touch, students cultivate an ongoing individual practice for embodying their personal process.

PSYB 209
Herbal Medicine (3)
An introduction to the use of food, herbs and other natural remedies to maintain and improve a wide variety of health conditions. We discuss herbal preparations, safety, dosaging and also learn to identify many local plants in this area. Topics include herbal history, food as medicine, reproductive health, emotional health using natural remedies, natural medicine for children, addictions, psychoactive plants, aromatherapy and immune system health. The class has an East-West approach incorporating many of the principles of Oriental medicine, yet mostly using native plants.

PSYB 225
Family Systems (3)
An investigation of the family as a system, which has a structure and organization of its own. Interactions between family members are seen from a systematic perspective, thereby deepening the students’ understanding of their family of origin and the families of others. The course provides an introduction to the history of family therapy and to the major theorists in the field. The importance of family in various therapeutic contexts is explored as well as diversity of family forms found within our culture and the cultures of others. The course combines readings, lectures, discussions and experiential exercises. Prerequisite: PSYB 101. Open to Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students only. Others by permission of instructor.

PSYB 234
Perception (3)
The senses give our mind access to the world. All human senses, including sight, hearing, taste, smell, touch, bodily sensations, etc., are studied. Students practice contemplative sensory awareness, attending to nuance and detail and document their own experience by journaling. Introspection (direct observation of conscious experience) joins with scientific understanding of perceptual processes in laboratory exercises, lecture and discussion. Findings from modern research on perception and attention provide more complete understanding of the embodied nature of subjective experience.

PSYB 239
Nutrition (3)
Students learn basic human physical, nutritional requirements from four perspectives: the field of nutritional anthropology; the scientific discoveries of the twentieth century; direct experience; and from intuition. Students acquire information and tools to determine a diet that suits them best now, as well as how to alter that diet as requirements may change during life. We study the dietary changes in the twentieth century that underlie our most common causes of chronic disease and death and suggest nutritional strategies to prevent those diseases.

PSYB 241
Systems Thinking: Psychological and Social Systems (3)
We are complex beings living in an interconnected universe. Students explore the exciting and innovative approaches of systems thinking and chaos theory to help understand themselves and their relationship with the world. Students learn “tools for thought”—ideas such as wholeness, emergence and feedback—to gain insight into the nature of mind, families and organizations. Class readings and videos include such original thinkers as Fritjof Capra, Gregory Bateson, Rupert Sheldrake and Francisco Varela.

PSYB 255
Body-Mind Centering (3)
This class focuses on the relationship between the body and mind through basic patterns of movement. Students experience their patterns through guided development and transform movement patterns in both themselves and others. The basis of the work is Body-Mind Centering™, movement reeducation, and analysis developed by Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen. This class includes a study of living anatomy that brings awareness to the different body systems, developmental movements, and supports alignment and integration. Open to upper-division Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students only. Others by permission of the instructor.

PSYB 301
Statistics and Research Methods (3)
This course introduces statistical analysis and research methods used to test theories within psychological science.  Students learn the most common techniques for describing data and making inferences in psychological research. Students learn to develop research questions, design rigorous and ethically sound experiments, and collect, analyze and interpret data. Prerequisite: PSYB 101.

PSYB 303
The Psychology of the Five Elements I (3)
An exploration of the “law of the five elements” and the system of medicine connected with it. The ancient Chinese viewed body, mind and spirit as inseparable from the world of nature; careful observation of nature reveals the cause of suffering to any or all of these three areas. Through lecture, discussion and hands-on exercises, students examine their existing state of physical, mental and spiritual health. Students develop tools and skills to help improve personal and interpersonal environments. Open to upper-division students only. Others by permission of the department.

PSYB 304
Somatic Intelligence: The Neuroscience of Our Body-Mind Connection (3)
An introduction to somatic psychology, this course presents theoretical conceptualizations of the body-mind continuum, emphasizing emotions, movement, perception and the nature of illness and healing as illustrated by recent scientific theories and findings. By studying how our bodies and psyches weave together, we can become aware of their interdependence and construct more effective therapeutic experiences both for ourselves and for others. Students learn the fundamental principles of the somatic psychology field and explore in depth their relationship with advanced developmental psychology theories. Prerequisite: PSYB 101; PSYB 100 is strongly recommended.

PSYB 314
Buddhist Psychology I: Mindfulness Meditation (3)
This required course is an introduction to the psychological principles and sitting practice of mindfulness/awareness meditation, and is drawn from the Tibetan and Zen Buddhist traditions as well as the Shambhala teachings of sacred warriorship. We explore the many ways-both obvious and subtle-in which ego-fixation creates suffering and confusion in our lives. We train students to begin to develop inner tranquility, insight and loving-kindness as the essential ground for working effectively with their own life challenges and those of other people. Open to Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students with 45 credits only. Others by permission of instructor.

PSYB 323
The Psychology of the Five Elements II (3)
A continuation of the work in PSYB 223. Students work more deeply with five element diagnoses—the officials, color, sound, odor and emotion diagnosis in our personal healing journeys. In addition, we journey to various local plants and trees to access their wisdom and healing powers within the context of the five elements. This is a beginning of the work with “plant spirit medicine.” Students are expected to have a solid ground in the elements, seasons and officials so that there is a strong base for work with diagnosis. Prerequisite: PSYB 223. Open to upper-division students only. Others by permission of instructor.

PSYB 325
Buddhist Psychology II: Awakening Compassion (3)
An in-depth examination of the principles of compassionate action, as taught in both the Tibetan tradition of Mahayana Buddhism (the bodhisattva path) and the Western tradition of service to others. Students learn and practice tonglen meditation, and the skills of deep listening, empathic attendance, dialogue and servant leadership. Each student also writes weekly reflection papers that track the unfolding of a helping relationship with another person in light of the principles being presented. Prerequisite: PSYB 314 or meditation experience and permission of instructor. Open to Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students only. Others by permission of instructor.

PSYB 328
Gestalt: Presence (3)
Gestalt is first and foremost a way of being and a powerful, provocative way of understanding and working with the body, speech and mind. By focusing on the details of moment-to-moment experience and on the interplay between the individual and the environment, Gestalt seeks to develop self-knowledge, satisfaction, self-support and clear boundaries. The course includes readings, lectures, discussions and experiential exercises on the nature of being and ego. Upper-division Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students only. Others by permission of instructor.

PSYB 329
Approaches to Healing (3)
A basic overview of the theory, practice and use of various natural approaches to health and healing. Emphasis is placed upon understanding and appreciating these modalities and discerning when and for what they are appropriate. Students research and articulate the paradigms of holistic medicine, clarifying their personal interest for future work in this field. Open to upper-division students with 60+ credits only. Course fee.

PSYB 330
Introduction to Jungian Psychology (3)
A general introduction to the psychology of C.G. Jung, this course covers Jung’s major contributions to dynamic psychology, including topics such as ego consciousness, complexes, libido theory, archetypes and the collective unconscious, persona and shadow, anima and animus, the Self, individuation, synchronicity, active imagination and dream analysis. Students are required to explore their own inner world and confront unconscious processes by maintaining a journal, sharing dreams and working toward developing a “life myth.” Each class combines lecture, discussion and process, in order to bring meaning and reality to Jung’s concepts. Prerequisite: PSYB 101 or by permission of instructor. Not open to first-year students.

PSYB 333
Hakomi Somatics (3)
Recognizing that mind and body jointly express and reflect deeply held, often unconscious beliefs about oneself and others, Hakomi Somatics helps bring these beliefs to conscious awareness. The body, with its various patterns, is used to access an intelligence which underlies habitual, limiting patterns. Thus, limiting patterns are recognized and understood, making learning and transformation become possible. Students engage in exercises in mindfulness. Topics include the Hakomi principles, character strategies, boundaries, resources and somatic psychological skill building, which can be used in daily life. Upper-division BA students only. Others by permission of instructor.

PSYB 343W
Contemplative Community (0.5 credits each year)
This two-day retreat at Shambhala Mountain Center takes place at the beginning of each fall semester. The practices of sitting and walking meditation, tonglen and Maitri Space Awareness practice, as well as relaxing with others in this beautiful mountain setting, enable each student to begin the academic year with a renewed sense of energy and balance. Talks, gatherings and group exercises bring students and faculty together in a contemplative community with a sense of purpose and friendship. Contemplative Psychology students only. Special fee for room and board.

PSYB 345/345e
Developmental Psychology (3)
A study of theory in human development from birth through the span of life. Students are introduced to major theorists and discuss the philosophical and practical relationship of ethics to psychology, including cross-cultural issues. Students clarify, formulate and develop their own beliefs and approaches to human development in relation to these major schools of thought. We explore the relationship of these traditional approaches to the contemplative and transpersonal perspectives. Prerequisite: PSYB 101. This class is also available noncredit online.

PSYB 346
Tibetan Medicine (3)
Current Tibetan medicine is a unique blend of Ayurvedic, Chinese, Persian and Bon medical systems. This course presents an overview of Tibetan medicine and explores how it relates personal experience to the healing path so an individual can more easily understand and take charge of the healing process. Topics include three-humour theory, the mind-body relationship, the healing process, disease classification, how disease relates to diet and lifestyle, pulse and urine diagnosis, the role of mind training, spiritual practice and the use of herbs. Upper-division BA students only. Others by permission of instructor.

PSYB 350
Humanistic Psychology (3)
An exploration of the basic principles of humanistic and existential psychology and psychotherapy. This is the so-called “third force” in the modern Western tradition of psychology, which emerged after 1940 both as an expansion and an alternative to the psychoanalytic and behavioral schools that preceded it. It emphasizes the authenticity of the therapist as the key factor in promoting the client’s potential for growth and healing. We focus on the work of Adler, Rogers and Maslow among the humanists, and the work of Yalom, May, Frankl, Perls and Bugental among the existentialists. Prerequisite: PSYB 101 or permission of instructor. Open to Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students only.

PSYB 354
Introduction to Transpersonal Psychology (3)
This course uses the work of Jung, Assagioli, Grof, Wilber, Walsh, Vaughan and others to introduce students to the theoretical concepts and practical applications of transpersonal psychology. Students also learn to utilize the tools of this field of study, as well as explore their personal journey through the lens of transpersonal psychology. Prerequisite: PSYB 101. Open to upper-division Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students only. Others by permission of instructor.

PSYB 355
Dynamics of Intimate Relationships (3)
This course explores intimate relationship as a path of personal and spiritual development. Issues discussed include conscious and unconscious patterns in the selection of partners; family of origin influences; qualities of healthy relationships; communication styles; conflict resolution; gender differences; sexuality; and uncoupling. Students develop their own unique vision for deepening their experience of intimacy and creating a healthier, more satisfying partnership. Prerequisite: PSYB 101. Open to upper-division students only. Others by permission of instructor.

PSYB 357
Cognitive Psychology (3)
This course concerns the study of thought, conscious experience and associated mental functions. This area of psychological science focuses on the high level mental processes and related brain activity involved in conscious mental life and unconscious information processing. Specific topics include attention, language, intelligences, imagery, emotion, conceptual knowledge, memory, problem solving, expertise, reasoning and decision making. This course emphasizes the perspectives of information processing, cognitive neuroscience and contemplative psychological science. Prerequisite: PSYB 101.

PSYB 359
Learning from Trauma: Understanding Its Effects and Building Personal Resources (3)
Unresolved trauma affects our psychological and physical well-being. This class educates students about the aftereffects of trauma, such the inability to modulate physiological arousal, dissociation, and emotional problems and negative beliefs that might arise following trauma. This is an experiential class that emphasizes learning resources, especially somatic resources, for working with the effects of trauma in a group setting. The primary focus is on working through the body to develop somatic resources that help a person cope with and resolve the symptoms of trauma and gain mastery over helpless and overwhelming feelings. Open to upper-division students only or lower-division students with prerequisite PSYB 333. Others by permission of the instructor.

PSYB 371/371e
Personality Theories (3)
Students explore the development of human personality. We study the theories of major traditional systems of psychology, including psychoanalysis, analytical psychology, behavioral, humanistic, systemic, feminist and existential models. Students clarify, formulate and develop their own thoughts and approaches to the psychology of personality in relation to these major theories. We also explore the relationship of these approaches to the contemplative and transpersonal perspectives. Prerequisite: PSYB 101. Open to upper-division Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students and Contemplative Psychology minors only. Others by permission of instructor. This class is also available noncredit online.

PSYB 372
Presence: Voice and Sound (3)
This presentation-oriented course focuses on one’s essential voice and how it is given the form that allows it to be heard. Students bring to class regular showings, such as poetry, a dance, a song, a painting, a story, a piece of music or words from a journal. By listening and being heard, students study the art and discipline of personal statement, how the personal connects to the universal, and how self extends to and informs community. Through self-statement, one finds knowledge that allows for self-healing, and that can be used to help others. Open to upper-division Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students only. Others by permission of instructor.

PSYB 373
Social Psychology (3)
How do attitudes form and change? How do group dynamics influence decision making? What factors influence altruistic behavior? This course examines concepts and research evidence from areas of social psychology such as the social self, social influence, cultural variation, attraction, humanitarian behavior among others. The underlying variables of mindfulness and arousal are examined as a bridge to the contemplative perspective. Prerequisite: PSYB 101. Open to Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students only. Others by permission of the instructor.

PSYB 415
Buddhist Psychology III: Neurosis and Insight (3)
In the maitri practice particular postures and specially designed rooms evoke a variety of psychological spaces from which different styles of thought and emotion arise. Students explore major types of psychological spaces; their relation to pride, passion, paranoia, ignorance, frustration and aggression; and the Buddhist approach to sanity and neurosis through a weekly lecture, practice in maitri rooms and participation in a smalerl group to process material more personally. Prerequisite: PSYB 325 or equivalent meditation experience. Upper-division Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students only. Others by permission of instructor. Materials fee.

PSYB 420/420e
Abnormal Psychology (3)
Students investigate the merits and liabilities of Western assessment and treatment approaches to psychological problems. We consider the sociocultural contexts in which assessment and treatment approaches are variably formulated and applied. We investigate both transcultural understandings of psychological problems and the wisdom of cultural relativity. Students acquire a solid foundation in traditional Western clinical approaches to mental health as articulated and codified in the DSM IV-TR. Prerequisite: PSYB 101 and one additional PSYB 300-level class. Upperdivision Contemplative Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies students, MA students and Contemplative Psychology minors only. Others by permission of instructor.

PSYB 421/560
Scientific Research into Conscious Experience (0–3)
We empirically explore the nature of conscious experience using verbal report methods such as questionnaire, interview and focus group, as well as experiments in cognition, perception and attention. This hands-on course involves conducting collaborative empirical studies on one of
two topics. Students conduct studies on meditation and contemplative spirituality in order to contribute to a scientific understanding of meditation and its effects on people’s lives. Upper-division BA and MA. Permission of instructor required for all students.

PSYB 425
Buddhist Psychology IV: Compassionate Outreach (3)
Students volunteer weekly at an approved field placement site in the local community. This class offers a forum for students to reflect on their experiences from their community-based projects. Academic study is integrated with experiential learning to provide a meaningful educational experience. Students are introduced to contemplative awareness techniques that can be actively practiced in their community settings. Lectures, dialogue, guest speakers and experiential activities support students in developing their own vision of socially relevant service work that is culturally sensitive and nurtured by contemplative practice. Special topics have included cultural diversity and coping with death and dying. Prerequisite: PSYB 314, PSYB 325 and PSYB 415. A required field placement meeting, scheduled after course registration in the prior semester, allows students to meet with the coordinator, select a volunteer site and begin engagement with the community-based learning project associated with this course. Open to upper-division Contemplative Psychology students only.

PSYB 430
Exploring Dream Psychology (3)
This course works with dreams in a highly experiential manner and context, using an eclectic variety of perspectives with an emphasis on Jungian and Gestalt approaches.  Students’ dreams are explored in and out of the classroom: individually, in small and large group contexts, and with art media. An ongoing dream practice is required, including the creation and maintenance of a dream journal. Students are asked to relate their dream work to their waking psychological life in assignments. Prerequisite: PSYB 330 or PSYB 354, or by permission of the instructor.

PSYB 435
Authentic Movement/Body Awareness Practice(3)
Authentic Movement is a self-directed movement process employing the wisdom of the body as a pathway to awareness. It offers an opportunity to experience the individual and collective body as a vessel for healing and transformation and creative process. This course explores the ground form of Authentic Movement: the mover, the 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 healing relationship. Authentic Movement provides a model for life lived in authentic relationship to self, others and community. Prerequisite: Any one of the following: PSYB 208, PSYB 255, PSYB 304, PSYB 333, or PSYB 359.

PSYB 456
The Psychology of Religion (3)
What is the psychological function of religion? What are the psychological purposes of religious ritual and eating practices? This course examines theory and research in the psychology of religion with a special emphasis on comparing and contrasting Judeo-Christian perspectives with Buddhist perspectives on topics such as the self, attachment, gender and community. Prerequisite: PSYB 101 and any one of the following: PSYB 330, PSYB 345, PSYB 371 or PSYB 373.

PSYB 482
Senior Project Seminar I: Transformational Psychology - The Group Experience (3)
The initiatory or ground phase in a two-semester multisensory, multifaceted process, whereby students explore the nature of creativity and its fundamental relationship to psychology in the context of the classroom community. Through readings, writings, class discussions and exercises, students uncover their relationship to creativity and learn what exposing oneself to the larger world means. By engaging their curiosity and liveliness, and developing awareness around habitual patterns and resistances, students cultivate trust in themselves and their inherent qualities of wakefulness, wisdom and compassion. Open to Contemplative Psychology seniors with 90 credits only or by permission of instructor. Materials fee.

PSYB 483
Senior Seminar II: Transformational Psychology - The Threshold Experience (3)
The culminating or fruitional phase in a multisensory, multifaceted process, which introduces and explores the topic of transition. Students utilize the lessons learned and relationships formed within the first semester as inspiration for developing their final papers and multimedia presentations. Students research topics that provoke deep inquiry and challenge both their intellect and intuition. This course culminates in a celebratory, final presentation weekend. Prerequisite: PSYB 482. Open to Contemplative Psychology seniors only. Materials fee.

PSYB 490
Special Topics in Psychology (3)
An advanced examination of a topic drawn from psychology. Assignments may include reading, labs, papers, oral presentations, quizzes/exams, literature searches and manuscript preparation. This course culminates in a public oral presentation. Topics vary by semester and section. Prerequisites include PSYB 101, PSYB 301 or permission of instructor. May be repeated.

PSYB 495
Advanced Practicum in Psychological Research (3)
An advanced examination using research methods that discover new knowledge about a topic drawn from psychology. Assignments may include literature search, study design, data collection, data entry, data analysis and manuscript preparation. This course culminates in a public oral presentation. Topics vary by semester and section. Prerequisites: PSYB 101 and PSYB 301, or permission of instructor. May be repeated. Course fee.

PSYB 499
Independent Study (1–3)