Integrate Perspective and Practice
The 60-credit Holistic Studies Specialization is designed for students who view psychology from a holistic perspective and who wish to apply holistic principles to careers in counseling.
• Qualify for the Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) credential in Massachusetts
• Gain valuable field experience
• Study with experts in the field of mental health
Students are taught traditional psychological theory and intervention skills while integrating this knowledge with holistic theory, and holistic intervention strategies. Students are exposed to current developments in health psychology, transpersonal psychology and spiritual traditions and practices, which will prepare them for practice in a variety of clinical settings, including private practice.
At Lesley University, Mental Health Counseling students develop practical skills through self-reflection, collaboration with expert faculty and peers, and two years of field experience. Direct, supervised contact with clients from a range of populations is required so that students leave the program fully prepared for professional practice.
View the program of study for the 60-Credit Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Holistic Studies Specialization
Sample Course Descriptions
Theories of Holistic Counseling and Psychotherapy I & II
3 credits (each)
A yearlong course that grounds holistically oriented clinical practice in relevant psychotherapeutic research and theory. An analysis of all theories is done with attention paid to the relationship between spirit, mind, and body. The psychodynamic, cognitive/behavioral, humanistic/existential, and transpersonal theories are explored. Students will begin to define their own theoretical orientations.
Spirituality: Resource for Psychological and Social Wellbeing
3 credits
Psychospiritual growth can promote mental/physical health, social justice, peace and community. Students participate in a curriculum that facilitates mindfulness and psychospiritual growth, with peers from many belief systems, including atheism, and diverse religious/cultural backgrounds. The curriculum can be modified for use by counselors, teachers and clergy with adults and adolescents. This interactive, experiential class combines self-inquiry with materials and methods from social neuroscience, counseling psychology, expressive therapies, and the spiritual traditions.
Psychology of Culture and Identity: Power, Privilege and Oppression
3 credits
Theories of cross-cultural counseling, psycho- logy of gender, and difference are explored. Students are asked to reflect on their own ethnic/racial backgrounds to understand issues of privilege, prejudice, and/or racism. The social construction of these factors and how the client’s and counselor’s perception of them influences their values and behaviors are discussed.
Faculty Spotlight
Donna San Antonio
Assistant Professor of Counseling and Psychology
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Rakhshanda Saleem
Associate Professor of Counseling and Psychology
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