his course is intended to offer an introduction to the profession of clinical mental health counseling with a broad focus on psychological dysfunction that is associated with distress or impaired functioning in a manner that is not typical, or expected, based on cultural and societal norms. Content will be organized in accordance with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This course will use an integrative approach toward the study of mental health including the interaction of biological, developmental, and social factors. Students will learn about the types and causes of mental disorders, their assessment, treatment plans, referrals for services, prognosis, related research in counseling, psychotherapy, and prevention. The legal, ethical, and sociocultural issues related to mental illness, psychopathology, behavior of mental health professionals, and society will be deliberated. Students will be exposed to the historical, philosophical, societal, economic, and political dimensions of mental health counseling. The course will provides an overview of the issues, needs, populations, skills, and models in mental health settings with an emphasis on prevention and wellness. The prerequisite is EDU 121