Spanish for Counseling and Human Services Certificate

The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) stands as a premier institution of higher education, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. TCNJ is known for its rigorous academic programs, which span a wide array of disciplines, including the liberal arts, sciences, business, and education. The faculty at TCNJ are dedicated educators and scholars, fostering an environment where students are challenged to think critically and creatively. The college places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, providing students with opportunities for internships, research projects, and community service. With a vibrant campus life and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, TCNJ prepares students not only for successful careers but also to become responsible, ethical leaders in their communities.

By perfecting their Spanish and heightening their intercultural awareness, psychology and counseling students can better serve a growing population of Spanish speakers. A 2018 study by the American Psychological Association reports a shortage of Spanish-speaking mental health practitioners, with “only about 5,000 psychologists in the United States who are Hispanic, representing 5 percent of all psychologists, an increase from 3 percent a decade ago, according to Census data.” Spanish-speaking therapists are a rare commodity. In a nationwide APA survey, only 5.5 percent of psychologists, who may be Hispanic or another race or ethnicity, said they could provide mental health services in Spanish. Various studies report on language barriers limiting access to quality care. Studies have found that Spanish-speaking clients feel more comfortable sharing personal information with Spanish-speaking therapists than with English-speaking therapists who use interpreters. Other studies have found that Spanish-speaking clients may switch to Spanish when remembering emotional experiences. Beyond language, understanding Latin American and Hispanic cultural realities are key to providing successful treatment.

The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) stands as a beacon of academic excellence, renowned for its rigorous programs and commitment to cultivating well-rounded individuals. At TCNJ, education extends beyond the classroom, emphasizing experiential learning, research opportunities, and community engagement. The college's dedicated faculty inspires students to think critically and creatively, fostering an environment where intellectual curiosity thrives. With a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, TCNJ is not just an institution of learning but a community that shapes responsible, ethical leaders. As a premier public college, TCNJ continues to set high standards in undergraduate education, preparing students for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society.