Graduate Certificate of Completion in Mental Health and Wellness - Family Dynamics

Mental Health Wellness Graduate Certificate in Family Dynamics at GCU

Grand Canyon University's Graduate Certificate of Completion in Mental Health and Wellness with an Emphasis in Family Dynamics Studies program is designed for students interested in working with families and various community settings to promote mental health and wellness. Students explore areas of family development, family dynamics, parenting and social motivations. They are introduced to research and best practices for integrating mental health and wellness principles within family dynamics and systems. This certificate does not lead to certification or licensure.

What is a Mental Health and Wellness Certificate in Family Dynamics?

Students in this certificate program are exposed to the principles of family dynamics within the mental health and wellness fields, including:

• Analyzation of the forms and functions of families at different developmental stages
• Evaluation and exploration of various parenting strategies
• Analyzation of the relationship between the family unit and other societal institutions
• Analyzation of how interpersonal relationships are formed and maintained within families

The graduate certificate in mental health and wellness specific to family dynamics exposes students to research and best practices for integrating mental health and wellness principles within family systems. Whereas the Master of Science in Mental Health and Wellness with an Emphasis in Family Dynamics deepens knowledge and skills through continued coursework and practical examination of the field. The certificate program offers students an opportunity to advance their education and specialty through this 16 credit certificate program.

Mental Health Certificate – Family Dynamics Requirements
Students in the certificate program in family dynamics are required to complete the following courses:

Introduction to Family Dynamics and Systems:
This course examines the family as an interactive system of individuals whose roles and boundaries constantly shift to accommodate the needs of the collective family unit. The influence of relationships, interactional patterns and communication among family members is covered through a systemic lens. Considering the function of behaviors will determine how problems are formed, perpetuated and resolved within families.

Family Development:
This course examines the family lifecycle, the development of individuals within the family and the family system as a whole. It includes a survey of how cognitive, moral and psychosocial developmental theories relate to family development and the transitions between family lifecycle stages.

Parenting:
In this course, students examine the many facets of parenting, including: the historical and theoretical influences of parenting in the United States, how parenting changes throughout the lifespan and how parenting is different in various family contexts. Research and evidence-based parenting practices regarding character development and promoting positive behavior are covered as well as how various factors affect parenting such as drugs and alcohol, poverty, and medical and psychological diagnoses.

Families in Contemporary Society:
This course takes a holistic look at the structure and function of the family in contemporary society as well as the many societal influences that affect the family. It examines how modern phenomena such as nontraditional family structures, changing moral norms, and the proliferation of technology have impacted today’s families and the way they interact with other community systems. Modern governmental guidelines and ethical challenges are also addressed.

Mental Health and Wellness Certificate in Family Dynamics Outcomes

Students completing the mental health and wellness graduate certificate with an emphasis in family dynamics are prepared to enter in social service fields. Students can use their knowledge to assist with positions in schools, churches, hospitals, community-based organizations and settings that provide comprehensive children and family services.