Doctor of Counseling with Marriage and Family Therapy
3 YEARS | 40 CREDITS[UNITS]
ACADEMIC PROGRAM DESCRIPTION AND OBJECTIVES
The Doctor of Counseling in Marriage & Family Therapy is an advanced program designed to equip professionals with clinical expertise, research skills, and ethical leadership in the field. With a focus on evidence-based therapy, trauma intervention, and multicultural counseling, students develop the competencies needed for clinical practice, academia, and leadership roles in mental health.
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This program integrates faith-based principles with therapeutic approaches, preparing graduates to work effectively with individuals, couples, and families. Through specialized coursework and dissertation research, students gain the knowledge and practical skills to lead, teach, and impact the field of marriage and family therapy.
Why Choose This Program?
Advanced Clinical Training – Gain expertise in marriage, family, and couples therapy with evidence-based techniques.
Faith-Based Integration –
Learn to apply Christian principles in ethical counseling and mental health care.
Specialized Focus Areas –
Develop skills in trauma intervention, addiction counseling, and crisis management.
Research & Leadership Development – Conduct independent research and prepare for supervisory or academic roles.
Flexible & Impact-Driven –
Designed for clinicians, educators, and professionals seeking to expand their influence in mental health.
SCHOOL OF COUNSELING
Master of Arts in Counseling with Marriage and Family Therapy
Doctor of Counseling with Marriage and Family Therapy
Associate of Arts in Leadership Studies (Counseling concentration)
Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Studies (Counseling concentration)
FULL DC CURRICULUM
DOCTOR OF COUNSELING WITH MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY CURRICULUM
Doctor of Marriage & Family Therapy
Core courses (33 credits) / Select 11 Courses
Family Therapy
Marriage/Couples Therapy
Child and Adolescent Therapy
Crisis and Trauma Assessment and Interventions
Multi-Cultural Counseling
Addictions Assessment and Interventions
Group Therapy
Theories of Psychopathology Diagnostics and Treatment
Legal and Ethical Therapeutic Issues
Introduction to Clinical Counseling Skills
Psychopharmacology
Substance Abuse Addictions and Diversity
Human Sexuality and Sex Therapy
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Dissertation Courses (7 Credits – 2 Required Courses)​​
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Research Methodologies
Dissertation II: Research Method and Tutorial
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Final Dissertation Defense (4 Credits)
Defense & Final Dissertation (4 units)
CAREERS
The course curriculum develops students' core competencies for success in ministry and leadership. Possible careers include:
Case Management Worker
Child Advocate
Child Life Specialist
In-house Church Counselor
Nonprofit organization counselor
Corrections Treatment Specialist
Crisis Intervention Counselor
Domestic Violence Counselor
Family and Human Development Worker
Grief Counselor
Human Services Employee
Program Learning Outcomes
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Demonstrate biblical and psychological counseling competency dealing with the emotional, social, and spiritual needs within the Christian community.
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Articulate a philosophy of counseling ministry based upon the integration of biblical, empirical, historical and social science research.
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Apply the most widely practiced counseling methods and principles.
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Exercise attentiveness to their personal spiritual formation and demonstrate critical and analytical knowledge of biblical and theological foundations for counseling. 01 02 03 04