Integrated Behavioral Health in Rural Settings: A Course Design

ABSTRACT

Rurality is a vital component of cultural diversity, making it essential to train future counselors on comprehensive mental health counseling practice with rural populations. In this article, we describe the development of a master’s level course that reflects an integrated approach to providing mental health counseling services in rural communities. First, the pedagogical foundation for the course design and positionality are discussed. Second, the course objectives are outlined, and corresponding teaching methods and creative learning assignments are provided. Last, we discuss the strengths and challenges of the course design and implementation.