Courses
Co-Curricular Requirements
| Talbot Spiritual Direction I (0 credits) |
| This course provides students the opportunity to explore their life of prayer and growth with a trained spiritual director from the Institute for Spiritual Formation’s (ISF), Center for Spiritual Renewal (CSR). |
| Graduate Research and Writing Course (0 credits) |
| This course is designed to help you write your first graduate research paper. If possible, students should do this course along with another MFT course that requires a research paper. Students will learn and sharpen research and writing skills by working through From Topic to Thesis: A Guide to Theological Research (Michael Kibbe), watching short instructional videos, and submitting assignments addressing sources, footnotes, bibliography, and planning. The course is self-paced, entirely online and should take 10-12 hours to complete. It is free for all MFT students. |
| Personal Psychotherapy (0 credits) |
| All students admitted to the MFT program are required to complete a minimum of 35 hours of individual psychotherapy provided by a licensed MFT, LCSW, LPCC or psychologist of their own choosing. Each student will work out, and be fully responsible for, the financial arrangements with the therapist. |
| Practicum Qualifying Exam (0 credits) |
| The Practicum Qualifying Examination (PQE) is intended to assess the academic and relational readiness of students prior to enrolling in practicum. The PQE consists of three parts including a skills review, objective multiple choice section and faculty interview. |
Program Courses
| Principles of Counseling (3 credits) |
| This course is designed to provide a foundation of basic skills for people who want to enhance their therapy and abilities. It combines theoretical understanding and hands-on practice of essential counseling micro-skills. |
| Marriage and Family Theories I (3 credits) |
| This course examines the epistemological and theoretical foundations and developments of the “classic” modern marriage and family therapy theories. Students will be critiquing each theory from theological, socio-cultural, socio-economic, gender, developmental, and evidence-based perspectives. Students will be encouraged to begin to develop their own personal style of therapy in light of theories studied. This course is designed as a survey course and as an introduction to the basic skills required of a family therapist. |
| Marriage and Family Therapy II (3 credits) |
| This course examines theoretical foundation for postmodern and contemporary marriage and family therapy theories. Working with case studies, students will build on their knowledge of MFT theories by focusing on theory-based assessment, treatment planning, goal prioritization and intervention informed by the systemic and recovery model. Therapy adaptations will be explored for a variety of clinical settings with culturally and economically diverse clinical populations. Particular emphasis will be placed on students examining their personal and professional development in terms of their own family history, relationships and conflicts. |
| Research Methods and Design in Marriage and Family Therapy (3 credits) |
| This course provides an overview of the purpose, methodology, and process of marital and family therapy research. Specific attention is given to the scholarly writing of a literature review, to various methods of research design, to a process for evaluation and critique of research articles, and to becoming meaningful consumers of research through an application of effectiveness-based research and progress research. Ethical issues will be addressed as well as what it means to view research through a theological lens. |
| Community Mental Health (3 credits) |
| The course provides a context for introducing students to contemporary mental health issues and services especially in Southern California. Emphasis will be on strengths based systemic recovery-oriented treatment with consumers, their families, and their communities who struggle with the challenges, among others, of severe mental illness, chronic medical conditions, poverty, joblessness, and violence. A Christian response to mental health issues will be discussed. Direct contact with public and private agencies and their clients is a core part of this course. |
| Family Life Cycle and Aging (3 credits) |
| This course explores the development of individuals within the family over the life cycle and therapeutic strategies for addressing developmental issues. Childhood, adolescence, marriage preparation, transition to parenthood, parenting over the life cycle, work and family issues, aging, chronic illness and long term care of older people are examined. Attention is given to physical, spiritual, intellectual, and social development and their implications for the practice of family therapy. This course will include 10 hours of instruction on aging and long-term care including biological, social, cognitive, psychological aspect, ethical issues at end-of-life, assessment, and interventions on aging. |
| Couples and Sex Therapy (3 credits) |
| This course examines theories and techniques for working with couples. It includes an overview of current theories and evidence-based treatment, research on successful marriages and divorce, and navigation of dynamics of faith, privilege, and culture (within couples). Particular attention is given to systemic approaches, theological dimensions of gender and to the relationship between marital and sex therapy. Assessment and treatment issues involving domestic violence are reviewed. |
| Assessment of Individuals and Families (3 credits) |
| This course provides an overview of approaches to the assessment of relationship problems with individuals, couples, and families. Emphasis is placed on psychometric theory and the use of relevant psychological testing instruments for assessment and research in marriage and family therapy. Students learn how to administer and score various instruments, interpret assessment data, and write clinical reports that assist in diagnosis and psychotherapeutic treatment. Legal, ethical, and cultural issues will receive particular focus, as well as students’ interpretation of their own assessment profiles. |
| Individual and Family Psychopathology (3 credits) |
| This course examines the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, explores relational diagnoses and the interaction of individual disorders and relational functioning. The focus will include a descriptive psychopathology, developing an in-depth knowledge of the DSM-5 criteria, and reviewing empirically supported treatments for individual and relational disorders. Appropriate use of the DSM-5 and its diagnostic categories with diverse populations in various clinical settings will be emphasized. Prerequisite(s): Marriage and Family Theories I. |
| Clinical Issues in Human Diversity (3 credits) |
| This course introduces multicultural counseling theories, techniques and mental health service delivery to individuals and family groups among various ethnic populations and social-economic classes in California. Self-assessment of knowledge, sensitivity and attitudes toward diverse populations, including race, ethnicity, gender, age, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, spirituality, ability, and language will receive special focus. Theological considerations on diversity will be particularly emphasized. Experientially, students examine intentional and unintentional oppression and privilege, and develop ethical and culturally competencies in addressing biases in themselves. |
| Law, Ethics, and Professional Issues (3 credits) |
| This course addresses legal and ethical situations arising in the practice of marriage and family therapy. These topics include confidentiality, informed consent, dual relationships, licensing standards, and family law. The course provides a review of California and professional laws governing the practice of marriage and family therapists. Christian ethics surrounding clinical issues and professional development are discussed. Students identify and apply ethical principles to specific professional and moral dilemmas. Students develop strategies for continuing professional, personal, and spiritual growth. |
| Theory and Process of Group Counseling (3 credits) |
| Major approaches to group therapy are presented which emphasize process groups and the use of experiential and didactic strategies within multiple settings common to the practice of therapy. Highlighted within this course are historical developments and the evolution of group therapy, the advanced theoretical underpinnings, the creation and importance of group work, as well as therapeutic factors with practical implications of group dynamics. Participants will be exposed to designing, implementing, and evaluating therapy group programs contextualized to diverse populations. Students will not only learn how to lead a group in mental health settings, but will also have rare and exhilarating opportunity to be part of a small group themselves. This is a valuable emotional growth experience toward a more comprehensive knowledge of the “self of the therapist.”. |
| Psychopharmacology and Psychobiology (3 credits) |
| This course is designed to provide MFT students with a basic knowledge of psychopharmacology – its scope, effectiveness and hazards. Students will gain a historical perspective of treatment uses of medication for mental disorders within the context of biological, social, cultural, gender and religious issues. Focus is on major classifications of psychotropic drugs, specifying their psychiatric uses, benefits, side effects, toxicities, combinations, and biochemical actions. Students explore how MFT students can best work with medical and other mental health practitioners to provide a more comprehensive, coordinated, recovery oriented plan of care to clients. Prerequisite: Individual and Family Psychopathology. |
| Chemical Dependence, Addictions, and Co-Occurring Disorders (3 credits) |
| This course provides current research, assessment, and treatment models of behavioral addictions, alcoholism, and other substance abuse, dependency, and co-occurring disorders. Emphasis is placed upon learning the language of recovery and how to work with both the client as well as the codependent and family members. Community referral resources and therapy techniques suitable for the marriage and family therapist in the treatment and referral of families affected by addiction are also explored. Spiritual, psychosocial, and biological perspectives are integrated with special emphasis on the effects of chronic poverty. |
| Crisis Intervention and Trauma Response (3 credits) |
| This course provides conceptual knowledge to treat individuals, couples and families in crisis and trauma. Students learn how short-term crisis approaches and interventions can assist in mitigating the long term effects of crisis and reduce risk for developing PTSD as well as provide support for people with PTSD and co-morbid conditions. Students learn assessments and interventions related to mental health disorders including Acute Stress Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injuries. This course includes a 6-hour training in suicide prevention, assessment and intervention. |
| Practicum in Marriage and Family Therapy I (3 credits) |
| The practicum sequence (Practicum in Marriage and Family Therapy I-III) is an integral component of marriage and family therapy education. These three courses constitute a 12-month practicum, including a minimum of 300 hours of clinical contact hours with individuals, couples, families and other systems physically present, a minimum of 60 hours of supervision by a qualified California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is a State approved supervisor and or an AAMFT approved supervisor, and a minimum of 30 hours of supervision utilizing observable data. As part of the total MFT curriculum, the practicum sequence allows students to develop from a therapist-in-training to an entry-level MFT professional. The practicum sequence is informed by the Core Competencies for marriage, couple and family therapists of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), the domains established by the Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Regulatory Board (AMFTRB), the mission of the Talbot MFT Program, and the educational values of Biola University. MFT Practicum I-III fulfill the requirements of the Board of Behavioral Science and COAMFTE standards for face-to-face experience counseling individuals, couples, families, or groups. A 3-credit for continuation of practicum is assessed for any semester of participation in group supervision beyond the third Supervised Clinical Experience unit for MFT students. Practicum I focuses on the development of Therapeutic Relationship, Structuring, Perceptual, and Case Management competencies. The process may be structured and supervisor-directed with cases and clinical work being closely monitored. Students will also begin to focus on the development of Intervention, Conceptual, and Professional Development competencies. There is emphasis on the demonstrating of interventions based on theoretical tenets. Each of these competencies will be addressed with application to varied clinical settings and consumers representing diverse populations commonly served in Southern CA. There will be an opportunity for students to identify their strengths, weaknesses, and problem cases |
| Practicum in Marriage and Family Therapy II (3 credits) |
| The practicum sequence (Practicum in Marriage and Family Therapy I-III) is an integral component of marriage and family therapy education. These three courses constitute a 12-month practicum, including a minimum of 300 hours of clinical contact hours with individuals, couples, families and other systems physically present, a minimum of 60 hours of supervision by a qualified California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is a State approved supervisor and or an AAMFT approved supervisor, and a minimum of 30 hours of supervision utilizing observable data. As part of the total MFT curriculum, the practicum sequence allows students to develop from a therapist-in-training to an entry-level MFT professional. The practicum sequence is informed by the Core Competencies for marriage, couple and family therapists of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), the domains established by the Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Regulatory Board (AMFTRB), the mission of the Talbot MFT Program, and the educational values of Biola University. MFT Practicum I-III fulfill the requirements of the Board of Behavioral Science and COAMFTE standards for face-to-face experience counseling individuals, couples, families, or groups. A 3-credit for continuation of practicum is assessed for any semester of participation in group supervision beyond the third Supervised Clinical Experience unit for MFT students. Practicum II focuses on the development of competencies needed in a community-based agency. Case Management competencies become focal as students demonstrate the ability to fulfill agency responsibilities as well as to coordinate a clinical caseload. Supervision predominates rather than training. Students are expected to identify for their supervisor their therapy concerns and problem cases. Professional Development competencies continue to be focal as clinical supervisor assesses with students their professional goals, needs, and plans for future growth as a therapist. |
| Practicum in Marriage and Family Therapy III (3 credits) |
| The practicum sequence (Practicum in Marriage and Family Therapy I-III) is an integral component of marriage and family therapy education. These three courses constitute a 12-month practicum, including a minimum of 300 hours of clinical contact hours with individuals, couples, families and other systems physically present, a minimum of 60 hours of supervision by a qualified California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is a State approved supervisor and or an AAMFT approved supervisor, and a minimum of 30 hours of supervision utilizing observable data. As part of the total MFT curriculum, the practicum sequence allows students to develop from a therapist-in-training to an entry-level MFT professional. The practicum sequence is informed by the Core Competencies for marriage, couple and family therapists of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), the domains established by the Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Regulatory Board (AMFTRB), the mission of the Talbot MFT Program, and the educational values of Biola University. MFT Practicum I-III fulfill the requirements of the Board of Behavioral Science and COAMFTE standards for face-to-face experience counseling individuals, couples, families, or groups. A 3-credit for continuation of practicum is assessed for any semester of participation in group supervision beyond the third Supervised Clinical Experience unit for MFT students. Practicum III focuses on the integration of students’ ideas and personal style into their theory of change. Conceptual competencies are again emphasized, but at a more advanced level. Professional Development competencies continue to be focal as site and practicum supervisor assesses with students their professional goals, needs, and plans for future growth as a therapist. Toward the end of the semester, the process of supervision assumes a consultation pair as the supervisors become less central and active. |
| Formation and the Self of the Therapist (2 credits) |
| (Cross-listed with TTSF 503 — Personal Foundations for Spiritual Formation) Introductory study of the nature of spiritual theology and formation, which attempts to understand the nature of new life in Christ, the process of formation in the Spirit, and the directives for cooperating with His work as related to the personal and professional development of the self of the therapist. Attention is given to the implications of Spiritual Theology for Marriage and Family Therapy training and classroom experience. Particular attention is given to understanding the implications of life in Christ regarding guilt, shame, and legalism as well as the New Covenant ministry of the Spirit in transforming the heart in light of the dynamics of original sin, early relational development and the habits of sin developed over time. Attention is also given to developmental spirituality, how the Spirit transforms the heart over time and how this affects services in the community. A 48-hour retreat will be introduced and required. This course includes a cohort group of approximately 20 students who explore the course content as well as the student’s own life and growth within community. |
| Formation and the Self of the Therapist II (2 credits) |
| (Cross-listed with TTSF 501 — Personal Foundations for Spiritual Formation) This course focuses on a theological and experiential exploration into human relationships and issues related to gender, romance, marriage, family and parenting as they relate to spiritual growth. Course includes an investigation into the impact of personal and family history on theological outlook, emotional congruence, relational attractions and moral decisions. Personal assessments and a one-day retreat are an integral part of this course. Students will experience spiritual community and intercessory prayer as they begin individual spiritual direction with a spiritual director and continue relationships within a spiritual direction group to explore deeply their relational capacity at the heart of how Christ is formed in them, thereby developing deeper levels of trust and vulnerability. |
| Professional Development Seminar I (Pre-Practicum) (1 credit) |
| This professional development seminar assists students in the practice of basic family therapy skills with individuals, couples and families. This learning experience spans two semesters of studies and includes role-playing, audio-video taped feedback, and participation in triads. The course includes a focus on professional knowledge (BBS, CAMFT, AAMFT), professional development and practical training in responding to ethical and legal issues. |
| Professional Development Seminar II (Pre-Practicum) (1 credit) |
| This professional development seminar assists students in the practice of basic family therapy skills with individuals, couples and families. This learning experience spans two semesters of studies and includes role-playing, audio-video taped feedback, and participation in triads. Seminar II is designed to develop and practice basic clinical interviewing skills. Emphasis is on the continued development of the therapist and the structure of the therapeutic process. A one-time fee of $1,200 is charged to the student’s account. |
| Professional Development Seminar III — Capstone Project (1 credit) |
| This capstone course is designed to be concurrent with students’ supervised clinical experience, yet separate from, the practicum series. Students’ clinical theory with clinical practice (professional formation), theology (biblical and theological formation), and spirituality (personal and spiritual formation) as a marriage, couple and family therapist are expressed in a culminating master’s level clinical project that comprises a written clinical portfolio and a final case presentation. |
| Biblical Interpretation and New Testament Psychology (3 credits) |
| This course investigates what Scripture has to offer for the development of psychological theory and practice. The course covers the nature and authority of Scripture, the illumination of the Spirit, and biblical hermeneutics. The course includes a study of various biblical texts that are particularly relevant for psychological theory and practice as well as a hermeneutical project that requires each student to interpret, contextualize, and apply a biblical passage relevant to psychological theory and/or practice. |
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