Holistic counseling is an approach to
treatment that considers the physical, mental and spiritual dimensions
of health, the connections between them and the connection between an
individual and the natural world. Accredited classroom-based holistic
counseling degree programs are rare, and as of 2010, online programs are
not offered at all. However, online master's degree programs in general
counseling are available that could possibly be adapted to a holistic
orientation.
Overview of an Online Master's Degree in Counseling
An online master's degree in counseling engages theories of mind and
develops the practical competence of students to perform as advisors and
confidants. Students learn methods for working with individuals, groups
and families to resolve emotional turmoil and interpersonal disputes.
When possible, students interested in a more
holistic
approach can seek courses that emphasize a mind-body-spirit whole
systems orientation to the profession. A bachelor's degree, preferably
in psychology, and a 3.0 grade point average are minimally required for
admission to a counseling master's degree program.
Online master's degree programs in counseling are generally a hybrid
of online and traditional instruction. Some courses require students to
complete on-campus residencies and on-site practicums. For the online
segment, students may access course readings, lectures and other
materials day-round through a school's website and submit finished
assignments the same way. Communication with faculty and other students
takes place in online forums and by e-mail or phone. A master's degree
is typically earned in 2-3 years.
Students are required to have a relatively new Windows or Mac
personal computer and broadband Internet access to participate in an
online program. Schools may use a course management system, such as
Moodle or Blackboard.
List of Common Counseling Courses
Many master's degree programs in general counseling are structured as
a broad list of required courses, rather than as a set of core courses
and a set of electives as in other master's programs.
Counseling Introductory Course
Students examine major theories of counseling and their applications
in real world settings. In the process of engaging the theory, students
begin developing their own theoretical and practical orientation to
counseling.
Human Development Course
This course aims to clarify the interaction of biological,
psychological, social, cultural and environmental factors that influence
human development. Course work covers the human life-cycle from the
pre-natal to geriatric stage.
Health and Dysfunction Course
This course reviews psychology literature that critiques the
discipline for focusing excessively on individual factors when analyzing
the causes of mental illness and considers alternative perspectives
that attempt to present comprehensive explanations. Students examine
ways of incorporating structural approaches to analysis in their
clinical work.
Research Methods Course
Students learn various approaches to research methodology and
research design in this course as well as data analysis and statistics.
Manuscript preparation, diversity issues and ethics are among the topics
considered.
Graduates of an online master's degree program in counseling are qualified to work as
mental health counselors, provided they meet state licensing requirements. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (
www.bls.gov)
projects employment of mental health counselors will grow 24% from
2008-2018. Growth will be facilitated by expanded health insurance
coverage of counseling services and a greater willingness by people to
seek counseling. The median salary of mental health counselors as of May
2009 was $38,010.
Several schools offer doctoral degree programs in counseling and a
small number offer them online. Although they aren't specifically
dedicated to holistic counseling, given the heavy research demands of
doctorate programs, students may be able to focus on a holistic approach
to counseling in their research.
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