Admission Requirements

An applicant is considered for full admission to our programs by meeting the following criteria:

NOTE: An applicant who does not meet all of the requirements for full admission may be admitted conditionally to the MA degree program. Students with a GPA between 3.0 and 2.6 will be considered for conditional admission.

Students admitted on conditional status must meet with their Advisor and develop and follow a plan to support their success during the first semester of enrollment. These students must receive a GPA of 3.0 or better in the first courses taken at Adler Graduate School.  All courses must be completed in the time period required by the instructor. Upon completion, the student’s file will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee, at which time the applicant will be considered for Full Admission. In the event that the required GPA is not achieved in the first course, conditional status will be ended, and acceptance will be denied.

Individuals who are uncertain about seeking admission to pursue a degree or certificate may enroll as students-at-large, (SAL) if they meet AGS’s minimum requirements for admission. If you are interested in registering as a SAL, you must complete the usual application process, including payment of the deposit fee prior to registration for courses.

Students-at-large must meet all course prerequisites and other requirements for courses taken. Courses taken for credit will apply toward completion of program requirements for students-at-large who wish to subsequently seek full admission to AGS. Successful completion of student-at-large course work does not guarantee admission to an academic program. Students seeking full admission to a program must submit a second application to a degree/certificate program. Students-at-large are not eligible for federal financial aid but they may apply for alternative loans.

Additional information for students-at-large:

Students-at-large can complete supervised field experience if they meet the following criteria:

For an alumnus who graduated within 7 years:

All other at-large students:

Below is a list of courses to choose from that do not require prerequisites:

500 – Principles of Research and Program Evaluation (3)

This course provides an introduction to the principles and processes of social science research. Topics covered include research methods, measurement, statistical analysis, literature reviews, needs assessments, and program evaluation. The course emphasizes the importance of research in advancing the counseling profession. Basic concepts for creating evidence-based assessments, collecting data, and making treatment decisions are reviewed. Ethical and culturally relevant strategies for gathering data and interpreting research results are examined.)

503 – Introduction to the Counseling Profession (3)

The primary purpose of this course is to introduce the foundations of the counseling profession and its specialty areas, including the profession’s history and philosophy, counselor professional identity, professional roles, settings, advocacy, and cross disciplinary collaboration among specialty areas and other mental health professions. Special attention will be devoted to the Wellness Model related to the counseling field, including related core Adlerian concepts.  Students will gain an understanding of prevention, intervention, multicultural, social justice, and advocacy within each specialty area, including prevention and intervention strategies related to crisis, trauma and suicide.

505 – Developmental Psychology (3)

The primary purpose of this course is to examine selected historical and contemporary theories and research of human growth and development over the life span with an integration of the Adlerian perspective. Students will review the neurological, biological, systemic, environmental, and multicultural factors affecting development. Students will identify the characteristics of typical and atypical development over the lifespan and their implications for ethical counseling interventions. 

509.3 – Comparative Theories through an Adlerian Lens (3)

This course provides an overview of the theoretical approaches to counseling and psychotherapy, with an emphasis on the view of human nature through an Adlerian lens and how this compares to other theories.  Students are introduced to various approaches to counseling, cultural applications, and intervention strategies and techniques relevant to each theory. This course helps students apply theoretical frameworks to case conceptualization and begin developing a personal theoretical perspective and a unique model of counseling.  Students begin developing an in-depth understanding of Adlerian Theory. 

516 – Foundations of Addictions and Co-Occurring Disorders (3)

This course is focused on the history, development, and dynamics of addiction and co-occurring disorders. Students will review the foundations of addictions counseling, and the etiology, theories, and models of addictions and addictive behaviors, with special attention given to the Adlerian perspective and multicultural counseling considerations. In this course, students explore the impact of addiction and co-occurring disorders on the family, and relational dynamics, risk and resilience factors, and principles and philosophies of self-help methods. Students will examine culture, trauma, and epigenetics related to addiction and co-occurring disorders.

517 – Ethics and Professional Identity (3)

Course description: Students in this course examine licensure board standards, ethical principles, codes of ethics, legal considerations, standards of preparation, and role identity of counselors in the different specialties. Students also learn how to choose and apply codes of ethics and ethical decision-making models to everyday counseling practice and to the resolution of ethical dilemmas. 

519 – Trauma and Crisis Intervention (2)

This course provides an overview of theory and best practices related to trauma and crisis intervention, with particular attention to an Adlerian theoretical framework. Students will gain awareness of the impact that crises and trauma-causing events have on individuals, couples, and families. The ethical, legal, and diversity considerations when intervening in crisis and trauma-causing events will be reviewed. Finally, a review of issues affecting therapists working with trauma populations and self-care strategies to prevent compassion fatigue. As part of the course, students will complete training for certifications in Psychological First Aid and Strategic Planning Approach to Suicide Prevention

523 – Multicultural Counseling (3)

The course provides an understanding of the cultural context of relationships and the cultural fabric of psychotherapy and counseling with individuals and families. Theoretical studies and experiential activities examine attitudes, beliefs, understandings, and acculturative experiences, designed to foster students’ understanding of self and clients in cross-cultural therapeutic encounters. Students discuss strategies and develop competencies in individual, couple, family, group, and community work in cross-cultural settings. Theories of multicultural counseling, theories of identity development and social justice, as well as specific ethical considerations, are used as a foundation of the studies. Counselors’ roles in eliminating biases, prejudices, and processes of intentional and unintentional oppression and discrimination are examined throughout the course. 

525 – Essential Interviewing Skills (3)

The purpose of this course is to examine the development and maintenance of therapeutic relationships, with a focus on essential interviewing. Students learn the evidence-based skills necessary for the development of therapeutic alliance, including the core conditions of accurate empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard, as well as non-directive and directive listening skills, and will practice using these skills in the different stages of an interview.  Special attention is paid to ethical considerations and cultural aspects that impact the interviewing process. Adlerian LifeStyle data serves a primary content in developing the interviewing skill, and lifestyle assessment is incorporated throughout the course. 

527 – Special Topics: Trauma-Informed Approaches (1)

This course will offer the opportunity to learn about relevant contemporary issues in their program concentration area. Students will research and present practices on a specific population, group, or emerging issues in their field. Their findings will be presented to the class in an oral presentation and through a written paper as well. 

527.1 – Special Topics: Nature in Counseling (1)

This course provides an introduction to Eco-Therapy, holistic healing and the practical implications of integrating nature in counseling. Students are introduced to the Adlerian concept of holism, Nature in Counseling techniques, Eco-Therapy ethics (ACA), contemporary research on nature and mental health, and a nature based experiential self-exploration project.  This course helps students apply a blend of ecological and counseling-based frameworks in their understanding of healing. 

527.2 – Exploring the Expressive Arts Through Play (1)

This course will explore the integration of the expressive arts in play therapy through various theoretical applications (child-centered, Adlerian, etc.). There will be a review of the history of play therapy, including the purpose, process, and application of play therapy strategies and techniques (sand tray, puppets, toys, etc.) for children, adolescents, and special populations.

527.3 – Native and Indigenous Health and Healing (1)

The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of issues and concepts related to providing the health and healing of Native and Indigenous clients and communities. This course will specifically address issues related to Native and Indigenous communities. Students will learn the historical and contemporary context surrounding counseling Native and Indigenous clients, as well as the cultural values that shape Indigenous worldviews. Students will learn about the impact of colonization including historical trauma as well as contemporary efforts for cultural resurgence and resilience.  Historical and contemporary literature surrounding Native and Indigenous people as well as healing models, ethical considerations, and traditional practices will also be covered. 

527.4 – Expressive Arts: Group Applications (1)

This course examines the application of expressive arts within the group process. Students will deepen their understanding of the artistic process, the relationships and experiences between group members, methods and skills of running an expressive arts-based group, principles of group dynamics and leadership styles and approaches. The course culminates with the creation of an expressive arts-based group curriculum.

527.5 – Visual Arts and Storytelling (1)

This course explores the theory and practice of storytelling as a therapeutic intervention. Students explore how storytelling can help interpret past and present, project a future, encourage empathy, provide testimony, and give voice to individual realities. Students will experience how storytelling takes us on a journey into our imagination, fostering self-understanding and awareness.

527.6 – Mindfulness and Contemplative Practices (1)

This experiential self-as-therapist course introduces students to mindfulness and contemplative practices for working with individuals and groups. Students will explore mindfulness-based wellness interventions and approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness-based nature activities, contemplative art activities, journaling, and meditation to aid in healing and self-care. There will be an emphasis on developing a personal mindfulness practice and wellness plan.

527.7 – Mind-Body Work in Expressive Arts Therapy (1)

This course combines somatic awareness, movement, yoga practices, breathwork, and mindfulness to unite the mind, body, and soul. Students will explore how the mind-body connection helps people reconnect with themselves, others, and the world around them.

527.8 – Poetry and Writing in the Expressive Arts (1)

This course explores the theory and practice of poetry and writing within the therapeutic process. Students will experience a variety of methods in using the written word for healing, reconciliation, problem-solving, and self-care of the therapist.

527.9 – Dreamwork (1)

This course explores the integration of dream work in the therapeutic process through an Adlerian framework. Students will explore the role of metaphor and meaning using visual arts, writing, and storytelling. There will be an emphasis on cross-cultural perspectives on the role of dreams, myths, and symbols in the self-exploration proc

527.10 – Movement and the Creative Process (1)

This course explores the connection between body awareness and creative expression through Authentic Movement. Students will experience how movement in therapy connects to a more profound life force that can bring an enhanced sense of meaning, self-exploration, and improved mental health.

527.12 – Music and Sound in Therapy (1)

This course investigates the principles of music therapy and sound healing practices. Historical and contemporary perspectives will be discussed. Students will explore how music and sound can be used to improve physical and emotional health and well-being.

527.13 – Trauma Informed Expressive Arts (1)

This course explores trauma-informed expressive arts therapy approaches to help clients safely process traumatic events. Expressive arts approaches, such as image-making, rhythm, movement, music, and storytelling, incorporate dual awareness – thinking and feeling – necessary for insight, healing, and restoring the self. There will be an emphasis on sensory integration and body-awareness approaches that foster safety, self-regulation, and re-connection.

527.14 – Counseling Military Populations (1)

This course provides a broad understanding of the U.S. military community as a diverse cultural institution and discusses current research on the unique counseling issues that impact military personnel and their families. Military culture, unique challenges and risk factors, clinical assessment and intervention, and counseling competencies for working with service members and their families are reviewed.  Current Veterans Administration eligibility requirements for counselors are discussed, along with additional military-focused professional issues.

527.16 – Expressive Arts Therapies & Art-Based Approaches (1)

This course will explore the pedagogy of art-based research in the context of expressive arts therapies. Art-based research history, methodology and ethical application will be reviewed. The current EXAT body of research and literature will be traversed, identifying existing gaps, and the development of a proposal for an art-based research study to address an identified gap will be created.

527.17 – Exploring Adlerian Life Tasks Through Visual Journaling (1)

Based on Alfred Adler’s Individual Psychology, this course explores the Adlerian life tasks – Spirituality, Self-Direction, Work & Leisure, Friendship, and Love – through the lens of creative and reflective visual journaling. Students will explore the psychological and philosophical underpinnings of Adlerian theory while engaging in artistic practices to uncover insights into their own lives and relationships. The course will integrate theoretical readings and hands-on creative activities to foster personal growth, enhance understanding of Adlerian concepts, and develop skills for facilitating visual journaling in clinical and educational settings.

532 – Group Psychotherapy and Counseling (3)

The purpose of this course is to familiarize students with theories, pertinent research, skills and techniques that are considered to be prerequisites for effective group counseling. Students will participate in a group counseling experience and class discussions will focus on how best to facilitate a group. Subject areas covered include group communication patterns-both verbal and nonverbal, leadership of the group, trust development, cohesion, risk-taking, group membership skills, facilitation skills, and conflict resolution skills. Students are expected to demonstrate their ability to plan, conduct, and terminate a group activity as an outcome of the course. Students will be introduced to the professional standards of group counseling dynamics as well as ethical and legal considerations.

534 – Behavioral Neuroscience (3)

This course is an overview of behavioral neuroscience, including the biological, neurological, psychological, physiological, and social effects of psychoactive substances and addictive disorders on the user and their families, with special attention to the Adlerian perspective and multicultural counseling considerations.  Students will study the mechanisms of action of pharmaceutical and illicit substances on the brain and body, as well as their influence on emotional and behavioral characteristics of addiction and other mental health conditions. Students will examine and learn to assess symptoms of psychoactive substance toxicity, intoxication, withdrawal, detoxification, and drug interaction. Students will review the basic classification, indications, contraindications, and side effects of illicit substances and commonly prescribed medications, for appropriate consultation and referral. Students will also examine the potential for substance use disorders and addictive behaviors to mimic/ and or co-occur with a variety of neurological, medical, or psychological conditions.

539 – Consultation and Advocacy for the Mental Health Profession (1)

This course provides an overview of consultation theory and advocacy competencies. Students will learn to apply the skills of consultation and advocacy in facilitating change when counseling families, in schools and colleges, and in community agencies. You will explore how the role of advocate addresses current social justice issues and the challenges presented. There is an emphasis on the practical application of consultation and advocacy skills within an Adlerian theoretical framework.

541 – Theories of Family Therapy (3)

The purpose of this course is to review the history and development of family systems theory.  Family therapy theories, approaches, assessment, and case conceptualization will be discussed.  Students will explore the influence of culture and diversity on couples and families.  The course is designed to teach students to integrate Adlerian Individual Psychology with Family Systems Theory. 

542 – Couples Counseling (3)

This course provides an overview of various systems approaches to family and couples therapy, integrating Adlerian concepts and techniques. Through lecture, role-play, case study and project development, students will be introduced to a variety of therapeutic procedures and intervention strategies which will promote systemic assessment, treatment planning, ongoing interventions and termination. As a course project, students will integrate course resources to create a “family and couples therapy manual” for their own practices.

544 – Counseling Children and Adolescents (3)

This course provides a theoretical perspective for understanding children and adolescents; recognizes the developmental influences challenging children and adolescents; and supports the theoretical and developmental understanding with practical therapeutic strategies. The theoretical and clinical perspectives will be examined within the context of Individual Psychology.

562 – Foundations of Career Development (3)

This course is designed to introduce students to the history, theories, and practices of career development and career counseling. It will foster confidence in their ability to address the needs of their clients in a holistic manner. Students review the history and theories of career development, career progression over life span, the purpose and variety of assessment instruments and career interviewing. A secondary benefit of this course is that students will participate in activities to strengthen themselves as professional counselors to include developing their own professional career portfolios. Students will research how careers fit into healthy, balanced lifestyles and into the community. They will have a foundation upon which to build deeper career counseling and coaching skills, further increase their understanding, and utilize resources they will use to help their future clients to grow in the life task of “work.”

620 – Advanced Seminar in Counseling: Human Sexuality (1)

This course will increase awareness, knowledge, and skills regarding a broad range of issues in the field of counseling when addressing human sexuality and intimacy issues across the lifespan; including assessment and interventions for common problems of sexual functioning. This course surveys biological, cultural, psychological, and ethical issues related to sexual behavior. Students will develop comfort in exploring subjects and working with a diverse range of clients on topics to include the expression of human sexuality and attitudes about sexuality.