Fall Adjunct Faculty COUN Family Systems, Theories

Saint Mary's College of California: ADJUNCT FACULTY Location

Moraga, CA

COUN 721-02:
Family Systems, Theories, and Applications

Mondays 4:15–7:00 p.m.

This course provides an introduction to the theories and practice of family therapy, and includes an overview of family systems theories: natural systems, psychodynamic, experiential, structural, communications, strategic, and postmodern. The content covers three essential areas of study: (a) theoretical concepts and models of systems theory and family therapy, along with related research and professional issues; (b) practical information, techniques, and procedures;

and (c) issues concerning today’s couples and families, including those family contexts that do not conform to the traditional nuclear family model. Throughout the course, all contexts relevant to the process of therapy, including gender, culture, and ethnicity, will be explored. The impact of domestic violence, gender, and culture on family dynamics will also be reviewed.

• Recognize how your own family experiences impact your clinical practice.
• Understand family systems theories, concepts, definitions, and family assessment consistent with 1st and 2nd order change.
• Indicate a foundational understanding and ability to apply theoretical understanding into practical application.
• Consider the impact of ecological, cross‑cultural, and structural variations on family systems and become familiar with the various forms family violence may take.
• Identify gender construction in social, political, religious, economic and cultural contexts and its impact on girls’/women’s and boys’/men’s identity, roles and relationships.
• Understand the theory and practice of marriage and family therapy consistent with each of the following approaches: trans‑generational, strategic, structural, experiential, psychoanalytic/dynamic, solution‑focused, and narrative.
• Discuss value and ethical dilemmas that may arise in clinical work, assessment, and research consistent with systemic thinking.
• Understand and demonstrate systemic record‑keeping practices consistent with California laws and ethics for LMFTs and LPCs.

• M.S., M.A., or Ph.D. in Counseling, Psychology, or related field.
• Experience teaching at the graduate level or at least three years of experience as a practicing clinician (MFT, PCC, Clinical or Counseling Psychologist).

• Ph.D. in Counseling or Psychology.
• Successful record of teaching experience at the graduate level.
• Current license in Marriage & Family Therapy, Professional Clinical Counseling, or Psychology.
• Demonstrated commitment to teaching excellence, multicultural/international competence, social justice, clinical expertise, and familiarity with counseling and psychological theory and practice.

• Must be a resident of California.

$6,480 – $10,308, dependent on qualifications. Salary range covered by the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the College and SEIU Local 1021.

Applicants must indicate interest via the posting application, complete the SMC Per Course Adjunct Faculty Questionnaire, include a cover letter addressing qualifications, a resume, and the names and contact information for three professional references. Consent for background checks is required. Applications are accepted until May 22, 2026, 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

Saint Mary's is an equal employment opportunity employer. We support inclusive excellence and are committed to creating a safe and welcoming community for all. College policy prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, gender stereotyping, gender identity, protected leave, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.