The ABCs of Teaching Family Counseling: Putting “Fun” into the Fundamentals of the Profession

Becoming a family counselor requires knowledge of the history, theories, techniques, and trends within the profession. These tasks are not easy to accomplish and require a dedication of learning where the field has been as well as where it appears to be going. Multiple-choice tests, essay questions, term papers, case histories, internships, special projects, and class presentations are some of the means used to teach and evaluate student’s mastery of the field. However, another way that is fun and effective is class exercises and games. One such game titled “The ABCs of Family Counseling” is explained here. This article examines the rationale for using this teaching tool and how the pedagogy tied to this exercise can help students become more aware of what they have learned, as well as help students develop a readiness to begin working with couples and families.