16 Mar Special Care Counselling
First semester
350-117-LE | NORMAL DEVELOPMENT | (2-1-2) 45 HRS / 1 2/3 CR |
This course provides students with a biopsychosocial understanding of normal human development throughout the lifespan. Students examine the age-related changes that occur in the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial domains of a person’s development from infancy to late adulthood and their impact on behaviour. This course lays the foundation for understanding atypical behaviour and adjustment problems to be covered later on in the program.
351-101-LE | FIELDWORK: AN INTRODUCTION | (1-3-2) 60 hrs / 2 CR) |
In this course, students are exposed to the many types of settings and client groups that Special Care Counsellors can potentially choose to work with. Visits, guest speakers, and interviews help students begin to clarify their understanding of the role of the S.C.C. They are initiated to the skills, qualities and ethics required by the field and receive first-aid and CPR training. This course prepares students to work directly with clients in the context of Fieldwork I.
351-102-LE | INTRODUCTION TO SPECIAL CARE COUNSELLING | (2-1-2) 45 HRS / 1 2/3 CR |
This course introduces students to the field of Special Care Counselling, and to community resources and services it utilizes. They investigate the functions and role of the S.C.C. and how it differs from professionals in related fields. The importance of interdisciplinary expertise and collaborative team work is emphasized. The examination of pertinent laws as well as the mandates of different types of services (public, private, community) provides students with an understanding of where and why clients are directed towards one service or another.
351-103-LE | COMMUNICATION | (2-2-2) 60 HRS / 2 CR. |
This course introduces students to the practice and principles of effective communication with clients as well as colleagues. They are taught to recognize and analyze elements that help or hinder the communication process. Students are taught to closely examine their own communication patterns, difficulties and strengths in order to develop better self-awareness of how they interact with others. A combination of theory, in class exercises, and self-awareness activities, afford students the opportunity to practice and improve interpersonal skills crucial for the development of trust in a helping field.
351-104-LE | OBSERVATION: AN INTRODUCTION | (1-2-2) 45 HRS / 1 2/3 CR |
This is the first of two courses that investigates the process of observation as it pertains to the S.C.C. The first course focusses on the how and why of gathering both direct (through the senses) and indirect (through documentation) observations of the client. Students learn to adopt a holistic perspective to their information gathering, paying attention to all aspects of the client’s behavior and their social and environmental context. They develop a repertoire of information-gathering tools and the knowledge of how and where to apply each. Students will practice writing skills necessary to produce professional documents (behavioral profiles, logbook notes, client files, notes to parents, incident reports…).
Second semester
NOTE: A student who fails one or more core courses in the first semester will be encouraged to take only general education courses in the subsequent winter semester. Exceptions may be made on a case by case basis.
351-201-LE | FIELDWORK I | (0-7-2) 105 HRS / 3 CR |
In this course students spend one full day a week working in a setting with a client group (where possible) of their choice. They are expected to apply the knowledge and skills learned in all the first semester courses. Assignments and small group supervision meetings will be geared towards: assessing students’ ability to communicate effectively with clients and co-workers, developing and implementing observation tools with discernment, writing objectively and nonjudgmentally. They will also gradually practice analytical, helping, and intervention skills that are developed concurrently within this semester.
(Prerequisites: 351-101-LE, 351-102-LE, 351-103-LE, 351-104-LE))
351-202-LE | INTERVENTION: AN INTRODUCTION | (1-2-2) 45 HRS / 1 2/3CR |
This is the first of two courses to examine the core of the role of the S.C.C. That is, the ability to develop and implement intervention strategies and techniques based on best practices and a rationale supported by systematic behavioral observations. Students learn how to assess client needs and strengths, formulate SMART objectives, develop intervention strategies, devise and animate activities, and write and evaluate intervention plans. They begin to explore and cultivate their own intervention style and will be encouraged to generalize this undertaking throughout their training.
351-203-LE | OBSERVATION II: ANALYSIS AND REPORTING | (1-2-2) 45 HRS / 1 2/3 CR |
In this course, a follow-up to Observation: an Introduction, students continue to hone their writing skills and their ability to determine and implement independently the appropriate information gathering tools. In addition, they learn to formulate practical and reasonable explanations regarding their observations of client behavior. The ability to formulate proficient analyses of ongoing direct and indirect observations and their concomitant recommendations will be a focal point in this course.
(Prerequisite: 351-104-LE)
351-204-LE | HELPING RELATIONSHIP | (2-2-2) 60 HRS / 2 CR |
In this course students learn the behaviors, skills, and attitudes involved in establishing professional helping relationships. They develop techniques to help clients explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with the goal of formulating an action plan. Students explore the idea that the helping relationship can unfold at any time, in any setting during the client’s daily routine. Two hours of practice is allotted weekly to facilitate the integration of the helping skills presented.
(Prerequisite: 351-103-LE)
351-224-LE | BIO-PSYCHOSOCIAL ADJUSTMENT | (2-2-2) 60 HRS / 2 CR |
In this course students are introduced to the multidimensional aspect of adjustment. Students develop the ability to recognize and understand particular adjustment problems from a bio-psychosocial perspective. They will develop a global understanding of the way biological, psychological and social factors interact in situations of adaptation and/or adjustment problems and impact on the overall functioning of the person. This course introduces the concept of bio-psychosocial adjustment to each of the population groups that will be studied later in the program.
(Prerequisite: 350-117-LE)
Third semester
351-302-LE | OLDER ADULTS WITH LOSS OF AUTONOMY | (2-1-2) 45 HRS / 1 2/3 CR |
In this course, students learn about the primary and secondary characteristics involved in the ageing process. Most common illnesses, conditions and disorders experienced in late adulthood and their impact on autonomy and psychological well-being are covered. The various forms of dementia and their behavioral manifestations are explored along with current best practice intervention strategies and approaches. Lectures, guest speakers, films, and assignments are all geared to foster a more positive, insightful, hopeful and empathetic perception of this stage of life and its associated needs. At the end of this course, students will be equipped to help older adults and their family members adapt to the changes that frequently accompany ageing.
351-303-LE | DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES | (2-1-2) 45 HRS / 1 2/3 CR |
This course covers individuals with an intellectual impairment and those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Students learn to assess the effect of the disability on the individual’s autonomy, independence, adaptability and socio-affective functioning. Focus is placed on the importance of working with their level of autonomy through the development of adaptive skills and behaviors. They learn to plan interventions, strategies and therapeutic activities designed to help clients meet their various needs and maximize their potential.
351-304-LE | MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE | (2-2-2) 60 HRS / 2 CR |
This course examines issues related to mental health and substance abuse. The focus is on the impact these may have on a person’s daily functioning, as well as their family. Theoretical knowledge will prepare students to recognize and understand the major features of mental disorders covered in the DSM-V. The central goal of this course is to prepare students to be able to accompany clients through the stages from acknowledgment of the disorder, acceptance, rehabilitation, ongoing maintenance, and relapse prevention.
351-305-LE | YOUTH AND ADJUSTMENT | (2-1-2) 45HRS / 1 2/3 CR |
The focus of this course is the intervention with youth (0 to 18 years). Students explore various psychological, familial and social situations that can lead to socio-emotional maladjustment. They learn to design interventions and activities geared towards helping clients express emotion, develop social skills, self-esteem and a sense of responsibility. Students explore ways of working collaboratively with families and other professionals.
351-306-LE | PHYSICAL AND NEUROLOGICAL IMPAIRMENTS | (2-2-2) 60 HRS / 2 CR |
This course covers several physical and neurological impairments frequently encountered by special care counsellors and provides a basic understanding of their characteristics (definitions, causes, symptoms, prevalence, and comorbidity). Students will learn how to assess the impact of the impairment on the physical, psychological, cognitive, social and moral functioning of these clientele groups. They will examine best practices with respect to maintaining or improving the clientele’s functional autonomy and quality of life to support well-being by exploring relevant approaches, interventions, and strategies. Students also receive training in basic transfer and mobility techniques.
Fourth semester
NOTE: A student who has not successfully completed all first, second, and third semester program-specific courses may not be permitted to take Fieldwork II. Exceptions may be made on a case by case basis.
351-401-LE | FIELDWORK II | (0-15-2) 225 HRS/ 6 CR |
In this course, students spend two full days a week throughout the semester, in fieldwork with a focus on intervention. Previous courses and Fieldwork I have prepared students to rapidly become active, contributing members of the team. They will have the opportunity to assess needs, to propose, and to implement interventions and activities in response to them. Students will be required to apply the observation, communication, helping, and intervention skills learned to date and to make links between theory and practice. Small group supervision meetings at the college every two weeks provides students with an opportunity to explore a variety of issues and to assume responsibility for their own professional growth.
(Prerequisites: All first, second, and third semester program-specific courses)
351-402-LE | VIOLENCE:THE PERPETRATOR AND THE VICTIM | (2-1-2) 45 HRS / 1 2/3 CR |
This course examines the cycle of violence and all the factors that promote, contribute to and sustain violence. The needs and characteristics of both perpetrators of violence and their victims will be discussed. Students will learn strategies for preventing and/or mitigating aggressive behaviors and how to protect themselves, the client and others when necessary. The concept of empowerment, the importance of the social support network and social integration will be covered for both perpetrators and victims.
351-403-LE | LANGUAGE AND LEARNING DIFFICULTIES | (2-1-2) 45 HRS / 1 2/3 CR |
In this course, students learn how to recognize indicators of learning and/or language difficulties among young people in a school or daycare context. They explore the concepts of emergent literacy and literacy. They learn strategies and techniques designed to enhance language skills in all children including those with difficulties or disabilities. Best practices for enhancing children’s social and communication skills as well as their motivation and interest in learning will be covered. The importance of ongoing consultation with resource persons and the implementation of concerted actions with family members and other concerned professionals is underscored.
351-404-LE | GROUP DYNAMICS | (2-2-2) 60 HRS / 2 CR |
This course explores theoretically and practically the concepts of group dynamics and team work. Students learn how to analyze the developmental stage and level of functioning of a group or team by examining the patterns of communication, leadership styles, roles, interpersonal relations, conflict management and problem solving strategies adopted by the participants. They apply this knowledge to an analysis of their own behaviors and attitudes within a group as a means of developing their skills as a facilitator. They experiment with strategies designed to enhance group effectiveness by encouraging participation, collaboration, cohesion, and decision making.
(Prerequisite: 351-204-LE)
Fifth semerter
NOTE: A student who has not successfully completed all first and second year program-specific courses may not be allowed to continue into third year. Exceptions may be made on a case by case basis.
351-501-LE | INTERNSHIP | (0-40-4) 600 HRS/ 14 1/3 CR |
This course gives students the opportunity to do their internship in the Eastern Townships, Montérégie, or Montreal. With supervision from both the college and staff at the fieldwork placement, students implement interventions, from the detection of a problem to the recommendations and follow up procedures. Interventions are carried out in the context of the client’s daily living activities with the final goal of providing suitable activities, social integration and autonomy. Students act in line with the mission statement of their placement, and promote its underlying values.
(Prerequisite: 351-401-LE)
Sixth semester
351-602-LE | REINTEGRATION: RE-ENTERING SOCIETY OR THE WORKPLACE | (2-1-2) 45 HRS / 1 2/3 CR |
In this course, students learn how to evaluate and facilitate a client’s ability to re-enter society and/or the workplace. They analyze issues related to the re-integration of individuals from a systemic-ecological perspective. They become familiar with the many services, organizations, programs, community resources, laws, and policies that exist to ensure and facilitate re-integration. The Special Care Counsellor’s role in empowering the client towards action and autonomy is emphasized
351-603-LE | INTEGRATIVE PROJECT | (2-4-5) 90 HRS / 3 2/3 CR |
In this course, students are expected to demonstrate an integration of all the skills and knowledge accrued throughout the program, including those acquired in general education courses. These are succinctly summarized in the Graduate Student Profile. Each student identifies a social problem resulting in an unmet psychosocial need in the community. They conduct research to develop a comprehensive understanding of the issue and consult with pertinent resource persons in the field. In collaboration with an interested community partner, the student designs a project geared towards the targeted need. Regular individual meetings with the instructor will help guide the students through their integrative process; this will occur more often than the theoretical components in class. The Comprehensive Assessment is incorporated into the integrative project therefore a passing grade in this course automatically constitutes a pass on the CA.
351-604-LE | INTERVENTION II | (2-2-2) 60 HRS / 2 CR |
This course pursues the competencies related to all aspects of intervention that were introduced in Intervention: an Introduction. At this stage in the program, students have studied several different client populations and have been exposed in fieldwork to different paradigms and practices. They are now expected to demonstrate that they are able to think critically and independently about what approaches, techniques and tools are better suited to particular clients and needs. Students who can now think flexibly about both the art and the science components of intervention will display creativity and ingenuity in devising suitable intervention strategies and tools. This will be further refined as students explore intervention with clients in the context of volatile, unpredictable and potentially explosive situations. The course will also examine ways of preventing burn-out.
(Prerequisite: 351-202-LE)
351-605-LE | SUPPORT NETWORKS | (1-2-2) 45 HRS / 1 2/3 CR |
This course focusses on the systemic nature of intervention by examining the client’s support networks and the role of the S.C.C. within it. Students learn to gather information on the people in the client’s immediate environment and to evaluate their capacity to provide psychosocial support. They consider nonjudgmentally the environment’s culture, values, beliefs, and practices in order to assess its strengths, challenges and risk factors. Students develop communication and helping techniques that foster trust, collaboration and openness to new ideas and information. They also learn how, when and where to file official reports to proper authorities.
387-616-LE: 387-BEC-LE | SOCIOLOGY OF UNEQUAL RELATIONS | (3-0-3) 45 HRS / 2 CR |
This course sensitizes students to the different types of minorities that exist in Canadian society and promotes an understanding of these groups. The course also describes social inequality and explains the impact of social inequalities and minority groups standing on intergroup relations. Specific groups are studied to understand each one’s distinctiveness and possibly bury misconceptions. Lastly, the course describes and analyzes the challenges and adjustment problems which people face based on their perceived differences and foster the coexistence and integration of people with differences.
NOTE: SOME COURSE TITLES MAY DIFFER SLIGHTLY ON STUDENTS’ TRANSCRIPTS; PLEASE REFER TO COURSE NUMBERS.