An introduction and orientation to the field of Human Services. The history, current concepts and roles of beginning professionals, community services and agencies are examined. The knowledge, ethics, skills and attitudes necessary to the field of Human Services are discussed. The student will demonstrate knowledge, ethical principles, skill and attitudes in practical application using the process of analysis and research of client needs and agency services.

The student will learn skills, knowledge and attitudes for counseling, interviewing and problem solving as used in therapy or in everyday situations. The course develops counseling skills for the client-counselor relationship. The student will learn and practice problem-solving techniques which help the client identify problems and work systematically for solutions. Interviewing is taught as a component of the counseling process. Techniques used in assessing the client and the problems are taught as part of the total process.

Provides an overview of current issues and topics in community health services with a focus on health disparities including socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and age. The focus is also on vulnerable populations, and the social determinants of health. The student will gain an understanding of these determinants to develop strategies to improve the health of communities and populations. Topics include communication and education, foundations of health, professional responsibility, advocacy, resources, socioeconomic factors in health, social and behavioral determinants of health, access to healthcare, the concept of community & public health, and how we study populations and the health issues they face.

The student will gain an understanding of the essential role that human services professionals play in facilitating healthy families and communities. The effects of poverty, inequality, unemployment, child abuse, substance abuse and domestic violence are included. The course provides strategies for empowering families to move to effective parenting, developing healthy life styles, promoting self-esteem and self-worth and making healthy choices.