Explore the role of social injustices as root causes of the uneven distribution of health and disease according to class, race and gender. Examination of current issues, the process for influencing change, and the role of social movements in creating more healthy and equitable communities. Students will also build their skills to effectively advocate for health and social justice.
This course prepares students for internship placement in behavioral health settings. Emphasis is placed on reviewing and practicing course counseling skills, legal and ethical issues, standard documentation of service delivery, expectations, and responsibilities, cultural humility, self-care, and placement strategies, including resume writing and employment interviewing skills.
This course is an introduction to the principles of youth development and significant health issues affecting today's youth. The course focuses on strategies and skills to engage and involve young people in their own decision-making and advocacy.
Students complete an internship with local employers to gain meaningful work experience and earn credit towards their CHW Certificate. One unit of credit is earned for 54 hours of unpaid or paid work.
Students will continue to develop core CHW competencies such as cultural humility and client-centered health education, counseling and care management services. They will continue to enhance professional skills essential for success in the field, and will study concepts and skills for providing group and community-centered assessment, education, support and advocacy services.
Health impacts of incarceration for individuals, families and communities. Incarceration and reentry policies will be examined. New models for promoting positive health outcomes among formerly incarcerated populations will be analyzed.
Overview of theoretical and research-based frameworks of stress, stress response, and stress management techniques. Critical assessment of physiological and psychological effects of stress, sources and causes of stress, and health consequences of chronic stress on individuals, communities, and society. Evidence-based techniques to manage and cope with stress, to improve individual and population health.
Integration of Tai Chi philosophy and theory with contemporary health practices and principles. Recognition of Tai Chi patterns will improve body balance and energy control. Tai Chi and Qigong exercises promote physical, mental and social health. Knowledge is particularly beneficial to health and social workers.
Students will review definitions of trauma, identify common traumatic events, and analyze the ways in which trauma experiences affect the health of survivors. Students will discuss diverse approaches to recovering from traumatic events.
Designed for students pursuing the Community Health Worker Certificate who are interested in working with communities in the areas of nutrition education, food security, and justice. Overview of trends, policies and resources that will enable students to advocate and promote the health of diverse communities.