Department Goals and Student Learning Outcomes — VCU College of Health Professions

Department Goals

To provide students with educational experiences that facilitate the development of knowledge, skills and values necessary to practice as a licensed professional counselor and certified rehabilitation counselor
To provide students with learning opportunities that foster culturally responsive and ethical counseling practices
To provide students with clinical training environments that prepare them to work in a variety of counseling settings
To provide an inclusive education that focuses on the intersections of people's identities
To interweave a mental health and disability focus into all course work

Develop a professional counseling identity, and demonstrate ability to function ethically and effectively within settings that offer counseling, advocacy, and related services to diverse populations.
Identify a range of counseling theories and skills applicable in a pluralistic society with individuals, groups, couples and families, and demonstrate the ability to apply this knowledge in a therapeutic manner to promote change and growth.
Demonstrate respect for the impact of social and cultural factors on human behavior and the role of individual differences in establishing and working toward counseling objectives.
Identify and apply the stages of development throughout the lifespan, including developmental goals, when working with individuals, regardless of disability or other impairing conditions.
Identify and apply career development theory and tools.
Use case management techniques and describe the range of community resources available.
Use appropriate assessment techniques when working with individuals and utilize relevant information within the counseling process.
Read and evaluate professional research literature and incorporate such information into their professional development.
Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to be an effective professional counselor through supervised practicum and Internship experiences.

Clinical Rehabilitation Concentration Outcomes

Students in the clinical rehabilitation counseling track will participate in clinical experiences focused on providing a variety of counseling services with clients that include people with disabilities and/or chronic illness. Students will perform a wide range of therapeutic services among diverse client populations.

Clinical Mental Health Concentration Outcomes

Students in the clinical mental health counseling track will participate in clinical experiences focused on providing a variety of counseling services that address mental health and emotional well-being. Students will perform a wide range of therapeutic services among diverse client populations.