UDM's Counseling program is founded on five ideological foundations. These foundations are interdependent and reflect the core principles and values of the program. 

Ideological Foundations in Brief

Cultural Competence

Cultural competence requires the awareness, knowledge, and skills of understanding the unique differences and experiences of others towards the development of effective models of helping. Traditional modes of learning combine with reflective exercises and experiential learning to promote an in-depth understanding of multiculturalism and the development of cultural competence. 

Ethics

Ethics education provides the essential value base guiding professional behavior in counseling. Students engage in various learning opportunities to translate ethical principles into practice, thus developing clinical styles guided by ethical conduct. 

Service

Active participation in service to marginalized individuals and communities is an integral part of the University of Detroit Mercy tradition and the program’s no-cost Counseling Clinic reflects the value of service. The program emphasizes a lifelong commitment to service as active citizens of social justice. 

Advocacy

Advocacy gives voice to those without voice and ensures that the needs of marginalized individuals and systems are recognized. Advocacy efforts are integrated throughout the curriculum to promote advocacy to individuals, communities, and to the profession. 

Social Justice

Directly related to service and advocacy, social justice is based upon the notion that all individuals have the right to equitable access and treatment, opportunities, and amenities and that all acts of injustice and discrimination must be addressed and rectified. A commitment to social justice demands that professional counselors possess the tools to be a change agent committed to an equitable and just society.