PYD863 Counseling in the Schools (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): Completion of first year coursework (24 credits), PYD821  
This course examines the roles psychologists play in K-12 school settings. Topics include conducting assessments for learning disability and emotional, behavioral, and developmental disorders; working with students, parents, and teachers; the development of individualized education plans; and working with mental health issues in a school setting.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify cultural and economic factors that impact child development and social and academic success.
2. Evaluate and select sound child and adolescent assessment instruments for various presenting difficulties.
3. Integrate test information with interview, collateral, and background information and cultural features and develop recommendations for individualized education plans (IEPs) and classroom interactions.
4. Practice a variety of therapeutic interventions and evaluate their effectiveness with specific ages and issues, and their appropriateness for the school setting.
5. Evaluate current literature in evidenced based practice with children and adolescents.
6. Present information in ways appropriate to the culture, setting and education of parents, teachers, and administrators.
7. Delineate the legal and ethical issues and concerns involved in treating mental health issues in school settings.