Behavioral Health Aide Microcredential

Stackable to Degree Program

These microcredentials align with requirements for the Human Services, A.S. degree and Liberal Arts and Sciences, A.S. degree should students choose to continue their education after obtaining the microcredential.

Microcredential Outline

This curriculum was designed and was approved by SUNY CCC governance. The Behavioral Health Aide (BHA) microcredential prepares individuals to work effectively in the behavioral health field. The key components of the program include explaining a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders to include the identification of symptoms, causes, and treatment approaches for these conditions. Additionally, graduates will implement essential interpersonal skills to support clients, such as active listening, empathy, emotional support, crisis intervention techniques and strategies for de-escalating high-stress situations. 

The microcredential is 12 credits and is comprised of the following courses.

HUSR 1030: Introduction to Helping Skills and Pre-Practicum (3 cr.)

Fundamental skills useful in helping relationships: listening, interviewing, confrontation, and problem solving. Video tape sessions provided feedback for evaluation of skills. Lecture/skills practice.

PSYC 1101: Introduction to Psychological Science (3 cr.)

An introduction to psychology. Includes scientific method, measurement in psychology, motivation, learning, thinking and problem solving, perception, behavior disorders and varieties of treatment, biological basis of behavior, social determinants of behavior, human development and personality. Lectures/demonstrations/discussion/field assignments. Prerequisites: Eligible to enroll in ENGL 1010.

PSYC 2215: Abnormal Psychology (3 cr.)

Historical concepts of abnormal behavior and current theoretical perspectives including: behavioral, psychodynamic, existential and neuroscience perspectives. Includes stress related anxiety, emotional, social, psychotic, organic, and developmental disorders; individual, group, family, community, and biological therapy. Writing process. Upper-level course. Prerequisites: PSYC 1101.

BUSN 1055: Professionalism (3 cr.)

Understanding of individual and workplace needs as they relate to professionalism, team building, and career growth. Topic areas include human relations, business ethics, business etiquette, team building concepts, and career enrichment.

Our Faculty

Highlighted for this program: Eric Smith

Program Contact

Deborah Beall, ADI Professional Studies beall@corning-cc.edu