MFT 6110 - Therapy with Diverse Clientele

3 Credit(s) | $7.50 Fee

This course will examine normal family processes and the crises, problems, and stresses both expected and unexpected that individuals, couples, and families face throughout the life cycle. Situations such as developmental transitions, separation and divorce, remarriage, death, illness, family secrets, violence, poverty, diversity, school crises, substance abuse, and intervention from larger systems will be studied for their impact on family structure and adaptability. Grounded in family systems theory, the course emphasizes how families are acted upon by these events and how they react, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for growth.

Particular attention will be given to issues especially relevant in Utah, including family violence, suicide, chronic illness, adoptive and foster families, aging families, grief and loss, religious and spiritual contexts, LGBTQ+ clients and families, rural mental health, parenting stress, and the impact of technology. The course will provide an introduction to each topic, along with resources for further investigation, and will emphasize the clinical implications of these critical encounters. Through case studies, role-plays, and applied assignments, students will learn how these moments help define families and how family therapists can intervene in helpful, respectful, and effective ways. (Spring - Even Years) [Graded Letter]

Prerequisite(s): MFT 6100 - Prerequisite Min. Grade: C
Registration Restriction(s): MMFT students only