PACO 620 Counseling the Adolescent and Their Families

For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.

Adolescence is a critical period of growth marked by significant challenges and transitions that shape one’s future well-being. This course equips pastoral counselors with the knowledge, tools, and Christian framework needed to address the complex issues confronting adolescents and their families.

Textbook readings and presentations

No details available.

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions (4)

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student will complete four discussions in this course. The student will create a 300–350-word thread in response to the provided prompts for each discussion. Each thread must demonstrate course-related knowledge and critically interact within content. In addition, the student is required to submit two replies of 50–100 words to the threads of his or her classmates. (CLO: A, B, C)

A Letter to Your Younger Self Assignment

The student will compose a reflective letter analyzing his/her adolescent years through the lens of his/her present perspective. Sections for analysis will include: Issues and Struggles, Family and Spiritual Life, and Personal Impact. The student should use course concepts, readings, and Scripture as support for his/her reflections. This assignment must be 1,250–1,750 words, excluding title page and references and must be edited for typos, spelling, current APA formatting, and proper grammar. (CLO: A)

Adolescent Issues Profile Assignment

The student will choose one adolescent issue from a select list and then compile scholarly resources, including at least 1 textbook, 3 peer-reviewed journal articles, and 2 recent websites. The student will identify 5–7 relevant statistics, examine 3–5 ways in which the chosen issue impacts adolescents today, and explore 2–3 broader impacts. Additionally, the student will evaluate the role of the church, faith communities, and families in offering support by providing 2–3 practical strategies for each. A 250–500 word summary must be included. An Adolescent Issues Profile Template is provided for this assignment and must be utilized in its completion. This assignment must be in current APA format. (CLO: B, C)

Movie Review Assignment

The student will select a movie or documentary that explores adolescent struggles and write a comprehensive review that focuses on adolescent development and crisis. The review must reflect a thoughtful integration of faith, psychology, and practical support, comprising 1,250–1,750 words, excluding title page and references. Current APA format must be followed. (CLO: B)

Counseling Interview Video Assignment

The student will create a 6–8 minute video based on the significant issue that was previously selected for the Adolescent Issues Profile Assignment. Videos must include an interview with a ministry leader or a counseling professional, providing expert insight into the challenges adolescents face. The student must be dressed professionally and fully engaged in the interview. (CLO: B, C)