Bachelor of Applied Science in Behavioral Healthcare (BASBH)

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Behavioral Healthcare (BASBH) degree from Olympic College prepares individuals for roles in the integrated treatment of mental health, substance use, and other health issues. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of behavioral healthcare principles and practices, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills to enter the workforce or pursue advanced studies in related fields. Graduates are prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in mental health counseling, addiction counseling, case management, and other behavioral healthcare settings.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Behavioral Healthcare (BASBH) degree offered by Olympic College prepares individuals for roles in the integrated treatment of mental illnesses, substance use disorders, physical illness, poverty, and homelessness. This program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to enter the workforce, advance in their current employment, or pursue graduate studies in related fields such as social work, addictions treatment, or counseling.

Degree Objectives:

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Analyze behavioral health concepts, including current trends, theories, approaches, and best practices
• Recognize institutional and social barriers that hinder access, equity, and success for individuals and families within behavioral health systems
• Effectively analyze, evaluate, and conduct behavioral health research
• Identify the structures, functions, and organizations that constitute the local healthcare system, with a particular focus on behavioral healthcare organizations
• Adhere to professional and ethical standards, including confidentiality and sensitivity when working with diverse populations within the behavioral health field
• Demonstrate clear, concise, and effective written, electronic, and verbal communication skills with clients, families, and interdisciplinary team members to improve person-centered care and health outcomes
• Complete both brief screenings and biopsychosocial assessments to include co-occurring disorders and develop and monitor client-centered treatment plans in the context of family, community, and cultural identities

Outline:

Program Content and Structure:

The BASBH program consists of 90 credits in-program in addition to 90 credits of prerequisite coursework, for a total of 180 credits. The program's content is structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of behavioral healthcare principles and practices.

Course Schedule:

The program's course schedule can be tailored to meet individual student needs and preferences. Students typically take two to three courses per quarter, allowing them to complete the program in approximately five years of part-time study.

Modules:

The program is divided into several modules, each covering a specific aspect of behavioral healthcare. The following is a list of the modules and their descriptions:

• Introduction to Behavioral Healthcare:
This module provides an overview of the field of behavioral healthcare, including its history, principles, and ethical considerations.
• Social and Cultural Diversity in Behavioral Health:
This module examines the impact of social and cultural factors on mental health and substance use.
• Ethics in Behavioral Health:
This module explores the ethical issues that arise in the practice of behavioral healthcare.
• Professional Development:
This module focuses on developing the professional skills necessary for success in the field of behavioral healthcare.
• Neurobiology:
This module provides an overview of the neurobiological basis of mental health and substance use disorders.
• Case Management:
This module teaches students how to manage the care of individuals with behavioral health needs.
• Treatment of Mental Health Disorders:
This module provides an in-depth examination of the treatment of various mental health disorders.
• Trauma Informed Care:
This module explores the principles and practices of trauma-informed care.
• Family Counseling:
This module teaches students how to provide counseling services to families affected by behavioral health issues.
• Advanced Counseling Techniques:
This module provides students with advanced counseling skills and techniques.
• Behavioral Healthcare in Primary Care:
This module examines the role of behavioral healthcare in primary care settings.
• Practicum:
This module provides students with supervised hands-on experience in the field of behavioral healthcare.
• Capstone Project:
This module allows students to complete a research project or other creative work that demonstrates their mastery of the program's content.
• Electives:
Students can choose from a variety of elective courses to supplement their core coursework. These courses may focus on specific areas of interest, such as addiction counseling, mental health counseling, or geriatric behavioral health.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

Student progress in the BASBH program is assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Exams
• Quizzes
• Papers
• Presentations
• Projects
• Practicum evaluations

Assessment Criteria:

Students are evaluated on their ability to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of behavioral health concepts and practices
• Apply behavioral health principles to real-world situations
• Communicate effectively in both written and oral formats
• Work effectively in a team environment
• Adhere to professional and ethical standards

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The BASBH program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles. These methods include:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Case studies
• Role-playing
• Simulations
• Online learning

Faculty:

The BASBH program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are experts in the field of behavioral healthcare. Faculty members are committed to providing students with a high-quality learning experience and are available to provide support and guidance throughout the program.

Careers:

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the BASBH program are prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in the field of behavioral healthcare. These opportunities may include positions in:

• Mental health counseling
• Addiction counseling
• Case management
• Social work
• Employee assistance programs
• School counseling
• Geriatric behavioral health
• Research

Career Outcomes:

Graduates of the BASBH program are highly sought after by employers due to their strong academic foundation and practical experience. Many graduates go on to successful careers in the field of behavioral healthcare, where they make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families affected by mental health and substance use issues.