Teaching an Undergraduate Seminar in Psychotherapy

Abstract

I describe an undergraduate seminar course on psychotherapy that includes both didactic and experiential components. Students attend lectures, discuss case material, read texts on psychotherapy, and participate in role-playing sessions based on different theoretical orientations. These simulated therapy sessions are videotaped and shared during class. Students critique their own role-plays and receive feedback from peers both in and out of the classroom. Such a course improves communication stills and gives undergraduates hands-on experience in a simulated therapeutic setting. Course evaluations are summarised.