Falk College has announced a certificate of advanced studies (CAS) in child therapy, addressing a growing national shortage of mental health professionals trained to work with children and adolescents and their families. The CAS in child therapy is designed for master’s-prepared licensed/certified professionals, and students currently enrolled in master’s-level licensure qualifying programs.
A counselor works with a child at a sand table.
The core courses and elective options in the 12-credit program include the theoretical foundations of therapy with children and their families/caregivers, as well as evidenced-based practice approaches and techniques. Completion of the certificate prepares students for clinical practice with children in mental health, school and residential settings and community agencies.
According to the most recent Surgeon General’s Report on Children’s Mental Health, almost 21 percent of children and adolescents ages 9 to 17 have evidence of distress associated with a specific diagnosis. Approximately half of this group had some treatment in one or more sectors of the de facto mental health service system. However, the remaining 11 percent received no treatment, translating to a majority of children and adolescents with mental disorders not receiving any care.
“Employers are seeking trained professionals who can work with children around a range of presenting concerns. In an era of evidence-based practice, our certificate program in child therapy affords master’s-level clinicians an additional credential as they approach a highly competitive job market,” notes Professor Thom deLara, chair of the Department of Marriage and Family Therapy. “The certificate will also help address the significant shortage of child-centered practitioners in the mental health work force by creating a consistent cadre of appropriately educated and trained professionals.”
Many of the courses in the CAS will be taught at Peck Hall, a 30,000-square-foot facility in the Syracuse community with three smart classrooms, a 24-station computer lab and an on-site Center for Couple and Family Therapy where students gain valuable hands-on experience. Students will also take courses in the newly renovated Falk Complex. Students can enroll in the program full or part time in the fall or spring semesters, as well as during the summer.
For more information about the new CAS in Child Therapy, please contact the Falk College Office of Admissions at 315.443.5555, falk@syr.edu, or visit falk.syr.edu.
