This course is a survey of the theoretical and practical knowledge underlying psychotherapy practice. Students will learn the technique and theory underlying psychological interventions to treat mental illness, cope with maladaptive and dysfunctional thoughts, and improve mental health. Theories and practices will be drawn from cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic modalities.

The curriculum will be structured based on the “Y-Model” for teaching psychotherapy competencies (Goldberg & Plakun 2013). The first two lessons will be focused on introducing the practice of psychotherapy and core skills common to both cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic psychotherapy, such as rapport building and case formulation. The next set of lessons will be focused on theory and practices specific to Beckian cognitive-behavioral therapy. The final portion of the course will be dedicated to teaching psychodynamic psychotherapy using a case-study driven approach with accompanying lectures on the psychoanalytic theory of Sigmund and Anna Freud, Melanie Klein, and Jacques Lacan.

Methods of instruction for this class include lectures, readings, research and reflection assignments, in class discussions, and guest speakers. Weekly attendance is required, and students are expected to participate in class discussions. Assignments will consist of reflections on assigned readings and videos. The final project will consist of a mock psychotherapy session.

There are no prerequisites and designed to be accessible to anyone interested in mental health care. Classes will be every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:00pm.