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ChristianCounseling2.0
AContemporaryChrist-centered
PerspectiveonTheory,Techniques
andHelpingStrategies
P.O.Box739•Forest,VA24551•1-800-526-8673•www.AACC.net
ChristianCounseling2.0
LightUniversity2
WelcometoLightUniversityandthe“ChristianCounseling2.0:AContemporaryChrist-centeredPerspectiveonTheory,TechniquesandHelpingStrategies”programofstudy.Our prayer is that you will be blessed by your studies and increase your effectiveness inreaching out to others. We believe you will find this program to be academically sound,clinicallyexcellentandbiblically-based.Our faculty represents some of the best in their field – including professors, counselors andministers who provide students with current, practical instruction relevant to the needs oftoday’sgenerations.We have alsoworked hard to provide youwith a program that is convenient and flexible –givingyoutheadvantageof“classroominstruction”onlineandallowingyoutocompleteyourtrainingonyourowntimeandscheduleinthecomfortofyourhomeoroffice.Thetestmaterialcanbefoundatwww.lightuniversity.comandmaybetakenopenbook.Onceyouhavesuccessfullycompletedthetest,whichcoverstheunitswithinthiscourse,youwillbeawardedacertificateofcompletionsignifyingyouhavecompletedthisprogramofstudy.Thank you for your interest in this program of study. Our prayer is that you will grow inknowledge,discernment,andpeople-skillsthroughoutthiscourseofstudy.Sincerely,
RonHawkinsDean,LightUniversity
ChristianCounseling2.0
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TheAmericanAssociationofChristianCounselors
• Represents the largest organizedmembership (nearly 50,000) of Christian counselorsandcaregiversintheworld,havingjustcelebratedits25thanniversaryin2011.
• Knownforitstop-tierpublications(ChristianCounselingToday,theChristianCounseling
Connection and Christian Coaching Today), professional credentialing opportunitiesofferedthroughtheInternationalBoardofChristianCare(IBCC),excellenceinChristiancounseling education, an array of broad-based conferences and live training events,radioprograms,regulatoryandadvocacyeffortsonbehalfofChristianprofessionals,apeer-reviewed Ethics Code, and collaborative partnerships such as CompassionInternational,theNationalHispanicChristianLeadershipConferenceandCareNet(tonameafew),theAACChasbecomethefaceofChristiancounselingtoday.
• With theneededvisionandpractical supportnecessary, theAACChelped launch the
InternationalChristianCoachingAssociation(ICCA)in2011,whichnowrepresentsthelargestChristianlifecoachingorganizationintheworldwithover2,000membersandgrowing.
OurMission
The AACC is committed to assisting Christian counselors, the entire “community of care,”licensedprofessionals,pastors,and laychurchmemberswith littleorno formal training. It isourintentiontoequipclinical,pastoral,andlaycaregiverswithbiblicaltruthandpsychosocialinsights that minister to hurting persons and helps them move to personal wholeness,interpersonalcompetence,mentalstability,andspiritualmaturity.
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OurVision
TheAACC’svisionhastwocriticaldimensions:First,wedesiretoservetheworldwideChristianChurch by helping foster maturity in Christ. Secondly, we aim to serve, educate, and equip1,000,000 professional clinicians, pastoral counselors, and lay helpers throughout the nextdecade.WearecommittedtohelpingtheChurchequipGod’speopletoloveandcareforoneanother.We recognize Christian counseling as a unique form of Christian discipleship, assisting thechurch in its call to bring believers to maturity in the lifelong process of sanctification—ofgrowingtomaturityinChristandexperiencingabundantlife.Werecognizesomearegiftedtodosointhecontextofaclinical,professionaland/orpastoralmanner.Wealsobelieveselected laypeoplearecalledtocareforothersandthattheyneedtheappropriatetrainingandmentoringtodoso.WebelievetheroleofthehelpingministryintheChurchmustbesupportedbythreestrongcords:thepastor,thelayhelper,andtheclinicalprofessional.ItistothesethreerolesthattheAACCisdedicatedtoserve(Ephesians4:11-13).
OurCoreValues
InthenameofChrist,theAmericanAssociationofChristianCounselorsabidesbythefollowingvalues:
VALUE1:OURSOURCEWearecommittedtohonorJesusChristandglorifyGod,remainingflexibleandresponsivetotheHolySpiritinallthatHehascalledustobeanddo.VALUE2:OURSTRENGTHWearecommittedtobiblicaltruths,andtoclinicalexcellenceandunityinthedeliveryofallourresources,services,trainingandbenefits.VALUE3:OURSERVICEWeare committed toeffectivelyandcompetently serve the communityof careworldwide—bothourmembership and the churchat large—withexcellenceand timeliness, andbyover-deliveryonourpromises.VALUE4:OURSTAFFWearecommittedtovalueandinvestinourpeopleaspartnersinourmissiontohelpotherseffectivelyprovideChrist-centeredcounselingandsoulcareforhurtingpeople.VALUE5:OURSTEWARDSHIPWe are committed to profitably steward the resourcesGod gives to us in order to continueservingtheneedsofhurtingpeople.
ChristianCounseling2.0
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LightUniversity• Establishedin1999undertheleadershipofDr.TimClinton—hasnowseennearly200,000
students from around the world (including lay caregivers, pastors and chaplains, crisisresponders,lifecoaches,andlicensedmentalhealthpractitioners)enrollincoursesthataredelivered via multiple formats (live conference and webinar presentations, video-basedcertificationtraining,andastate-of-theartonlinedistanceteachingplatform).
• Thesepresentations,courses,andcertificateanddiplomaprograms,offeroneofthemostcomprehensive orientations to Christian counseling anywhere. The strength of LightUniversity is partially determined by its world-class faculty—over 150 of the leadingChristianeducators,authors,mentalhealthcliniciansandlifecoachingexpertsintheUnitedStates. This core groupof facultymembers represents a literal “Who’sWho” inChristiancounseling. No other university in the world has pulled together such a diverse andcomprehensivegroupofprofessionals.
• Educational and training materials cover over 40 relevant core areas in Christian—
counseling, lifecoaching,mediation,andcrisis response—equippingcompetentcaregiversand ministry leaders who are making a difference in their churches, communities, andorganizations.
OurMissionStatement
TotrainonemillionBiblicalCounselors,ChristianLifeCoaches,andChristianCrisisRespondersbyeducating,equipping,andservingtoday’sChristianleaders.
AcademicallySound•ClinicallyExcellent•DistinctivelyChristian
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Video-basedCurriculum
• UtilizesDVDpresentations that incorporateover 150 of the leading Christian educators,authors,mentalhealthclinicians,andlifecoachingexpertsintheUnitedStates.
• Eachpresentationisapproximately50-60minutesinlengthandmostareaccompaniedbyacorrespondingtext(inoutlineformat)anda10-questionexaminationtomeasurelearningoutcomes.Therearenearly1,000uniquepresentationsthatareavailableandorganizedinvariouscourseofferings.
• Learning is self-directed and pacing is determined according to the individual time
parameters/scheduleofeachparticipant.• With the successful completion of each program course, participants receive an official
Certificate of Completion. In addition to the normal Certificate of Completion that eachparticipant receives, Regular and Advanced Diplomas in Biblical Counseling are alsoavailable.
Ø TheRegularDiploma isawardedbytakingCaringForPeopleGod’sWay,BreakingFreeandoneadditionalElectiveamongtheavailableCoreCourses.
Ø TheAdvancedDiplomaisawardedbytakingCaringForPeopleGod’sWay,BreakingFree,andanythreeElectivesamongtheavailableCoreCourses.
Credentialing
• LightUniversitycourses,programs,certificatesanddiplomasarerecognizedandendorsedbytheInternationalBoardofChristianCare(IBCC)anditsthreeaffiliateBoards:theBoardofChristianProfessional&PastoralCounselors(BCPPC);theBoardofChristianLifeCoaching(BCLC);andtheBoardofChristianCrisis&TraumaResponse(BCCTR).
• Credentialing is a separateprocess from certificate or diploma completion.However, theIBCC accepts Light University and Light University Online programs as meeting theacademic requirements for credentialing purposes. Graduates are eligible to apply forcredentialinginmostcases.
Ø Credentialinginvolvesanapplication,attestation,andpersonalreferences.
Ø CredentialrenewalsincludeContinuingEducationrequirements,re-attestation,andoccureitherannuallyorbienniallydependingonthespecificBoard.
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OnlineTesting
TheURLfortakingallquizzesforthiscourseis:http://www.lightuniversity.com/my-account/.
• TOLOGINTOYOURACCOUNT
Ø You should have received an email upon checkout that included your username,password,andalinktologintoyouraccountonline.
• MYDASHBOARDPAGE
Ø Once registered, youwill see theMyDVD Course Dashboard link by placing yourmousepointerovertheMyAccountmenuinthetopbarofthewebsite.Thispagewill include studentPROFILE informationand theREGISTEREDCOURSES forwhichyouareregistered.TheLOG-OUTandMYDASHBOARDtabswillbeinthetoprightofeachscreen.Clickingonthe>nexttothecoursewilltakeyoutothecoursepagecontainingthequizzes.
• QUIZZES
Ø Simplyclickonthefirstquiztobegin.• PRINTCERTIFICATE
Afterallquizzesaresuccessfullycompleted,a“PrintYourCertificate”buttonwillappearnearthetopofthecoursepage.YouwillnowbeabletoprintoutaCertificateofCompletion.Yournameandthecourseinformationarepre-populated.ContinuingEducationThe AACC is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to offer continuingeducationforpsychologists.TheAACCisaco-sponsorofthistrainingcurriculumandaNationalBoard of Certified Counselors (NBCC)ApprovedContinuing Education Provider (ACEPTM). TheAACC may award NBCC approved clock hours for events or programs that meet NBCCrequirements.TheAACCmaintainsresponsibilityforthecontentofthistrainingcurriculum.TheAACCalsoofferscontinuingeducationcreditforplaytherapiststhroughtheAssociationforPlayTherapy (APT Approved Provider #14-373), so long as the training element is specificallyapplicabletothepracticeofplaytherapy.It remains the responsibility of each individual to be aware of his/her state licensure andContinuing Education requirements. A letter certifying participation will be mailed to thoseindividuals who submit a Continuing Education request and have successfully completed allcourserequirements.
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Presenterfor
ChristianCounseling2.0
AContemporaryChrist-centered
PerspectiveonTheory,Techniques
andHelpingStrategies
ChristianCounseling2.0
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PresenterBiographies
Siang-YangTan,Ph.D.,isProfessorofPsychologyatFullerTheologicalSeminary.Dr.Tanisalsosenior pastor of First Evangelical Church Glendale in Glendale, CA. He is a distinguishedresearcher,writer,andscholarinChristianpsychotherapy.HeservedaspresidentofDivision36(PsychologyofReligion)of theAPA from1998 to1999.OfDr.Tan’smanypublications,he isbestknownforhisbookLayCounselingandmorerecently forFullService:MovingfromSelf-ServeChristianitytoTotalServanthood,CounselingandPsychotherapy:AChristianPerspective,and Disciplines of the Holy Spirit. He is associate editor of the Journal of Psychology andChristianity, contributingeditor for the JournalofPsychologyandTheology, consultingeditorforEdification: Journal for theSocietyofChristianPsychology, andeditorial consultantof theJournalofSpiritualFormationandSoulCare.The presentations for Christian Counseling 2.0 are drawn from Dr. Tan’s newest release byBaker Books. Counseling and Psychotherapy: A Christian Perspective offers comprehensivereviews, current research and biblical integration principles that cover tenmajor theoreticalapproachesusedbymentalhealthpractitioners.
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ChristianCounseling2.0:TheoriesofCounselingandTreatmentMethodsTableofContents:
CC20 101: Christian Theology in Christian Counseling: A Biblical Perspective on HumanNature,EffectiveCounselingandPsychotherapy...................................................................11
Siang-YangTan,Ph.D.
CC20102:ChristianFaithinClinicalPractice:ImplicitandExplicitIntegration.......................23Siang-YangTan,Ph.D.
CC20103:TheHolySpiritandChristianSpiritualityinCounselingandPsychotherapy...........37
Siang-YangTan,Ph.D.
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Lesson1
ChristianTheologyinChristianCounseling:A
BiblicalPerspectiveonHumanNature,
EffectiveCounselingandPsychotherapy
Siang-YangTan,Ph.D.
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AbstractThis sessionaddressesvariousapproachesandviews thatconcern the integrationofChristian faith in
psychologyandcounseling.Itisimportant,ascounselors,toperformChristiancounselinginthepower
of the Holy Spirit as the Lord leads in His wisdom and guidance through the Scripture. Theological
foundations are crucial to the field of Christian counseling. Psychology is a broad field, but the
integrationofChristian faith intopsychologynarrows the focus. Thereare fourbasic approaches and
fivemajorviewstotheintegrationofChristianfaithandpsychology.Thissessionseekstobrieflydetail
the aspects of Christian integration while clarifying the basic principles of effective counseling and
psychotherapy.
LearningObjectives
1. Participantswill gain adeeperunderstandingof the integrationofChristian faith into
thefieldofpsychologyandcounseling.
2. Participantswillbeabletoidentifythevariousapproachesandviewsthatrelatetothe
integrationoftheChristianfaithintopsychologyandcounseling.
3. Participantswilllearnbasicprinciplesofeffectivecounselingandpsychotherapy.
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I. ChristianCounseling
A. Defined
1. ThosewhoareChristiansperformChristiancounseling.
2. Christian counseling and the Christian counselor are Christ centered, Bible-based
andSpirit-filled.
B. Importance
1. It is importantthatweseethecrucial,essentialandsubstantialplaceforChristian
theologyinChristiancounseling.
2. ChristiancounselingshouldbeperformedinthepoweroftheHolySpiritastheLord
leadsinHiswisdomandguidancethroughtheBible.
3. TheologicalfoundationsarecrucialforChristiancounseling.
II. ApproachestotheIntegrationofChristianFaithandPsychology
A. Integration
1. Psychologyisabroadfield.
• There are 55 divisions of psychology within the American Psychological
Association(APA).
2. TheintegrationofChristianfaithandcounselingisanarrowfocus.
3. Weneedtobeclearinourusageofterminology.
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B. TheIntegrationofChristianFaithandGeneralPsychology1
1. Therearefourbasicapproaches.
2. ChristianityAgainstPsychology:
• Fundamentalistandbiblicallymilitant,conservativeChristiansusuallyholdtothe
ChristianityAgainstPsychologyapproach.
• Someofthemrejectpsychology,especiallythemoreclinicalaspectsofit.
• Many of those that hold this view do not reject the more experimental and
generalaspectsofpsychology.
• Thisisalmostananti-integrationperspective.
• Thisperspectiveisstillaroundinsomechurches.
3. ChristianityOffPsychology:
• Thosewithmoreliberaltheologicalviewsholdtothisapproach.
• Theyaremuchmoreopentopsychology.
• Theytrytoallowpsychologytobethedominantperspectiveandworldviewthat
guidesChristianfaithandbeliefs.
• Psychologyispreeminent.
4. ParallelsApproach/Model:
• Christianity and psychology are seen as equally important, but essentially
separatefields.
• Thereisrespectforscientificpsychologyandtheology.
• Thetwomayconnectsomehow,buttheyaredifferentfields.
• Usuallythosewhoareinterestedinscientificpsychologyholdtothisapproach.
5. ChristianityIntegratesPsychology:
• People who have an integrative approach to this field hold the Christianity
IntegratesPsychologyapproach.
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• They integrate the best of secular psychology and research that is not against
biblicalrevelationandputitintobiblicalteaching.
• The Bible is held as the ultimate authority through which all disciplines and
researcharesubjected,includingsecularpsychologyandresearch.
• SometakeastrongerviewofChristianpsychology.
III. FiveMajorViewsofIntegrationofChristianFaithandPsychology2
A. LevelsofExplanationView
1. Thisisthemostscientificview,anditissimilartotheParallelsModel.
2. Psychologyistakenwithequalimportanceandpriorityasfaithandtheology.
B. IntegrationView
1. ThisissimilartotheChristianityIntegratesPsychologyapproach.
C. ChristianPsychologyView
1. This is similar to the Christianity Integrates Psychology view and the Integration
view.
2. Forawhile,somewantedtogetridof the Integrationviewbecause itmighthave
beentooweak.
3. Bring in the Bible,maximally, as a central foundation of integration. Also bring in
historical foundations and biblical theology (so that the theological foundations
becomeevenstronger).
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4. ThisisdistinctivelyaChristianpsychologyview.
5. StartwiththeBible.Historical,biblicalandsystematictheologyislookedtofirst,and
notpsychologicaltheoriesandresearch.
6. Seehowtheologicalandbiblicalfoundationscaninformpsychologicaltheorizingand
research while at the same time respecting good psychological theorizing and
research.
D. TransformationalPsychologyView
1. ThisispsychologyintheSpirit.
2. Inthisparticularcontext,theimportanceofspiritualformation,spiritualdisciplines
andtheroleoftheHolySpiritareemphasized.
3. This is a trueChrist centered,Bible-basedandSpirit-filledapproach to counseling,
theintegratingofpsychologyandtheChristianfaith.
4. ThematerialinthisviewcanhelponetobemoreChristianintheirintegration.
E. BiblicalCounselingView
1. ThisissimilartotheChristianityAgainstPsychologyviewexceptthatitisnotagainst
psychologyalltheway.
2. It is critical of secular psychology, particularly in its theories, philosophies and
methods.
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IV. TheRoleofChristianTheology
A. TheBible
1. TheologyisthestudyofGod,Scriptureandrevelation.
2. Christiantheology isdistinctivelyanapproachtostudyingtheology fromabiblical,
Christianperspective.
B. ABiblicalPerspectiveonHumanNature
1. Thisisalsoknownasbiblicalanthropology.
2. It is important to have a proper, biblical understanding onwhat itmeans to be a
humanbeing.
3. Therearebasiccharacteristicsandtruthsconcerninghumannaturetokeepinmind
whenhelpingpeople.
4. TheBibleisveryrelevanttothefieldofcounseling.
• Itisan“eternaltextbook”onlife,humanfunctionanddysfunction.
• Itisessentialtohelpusunderstandpeople.
5. Therearesomebasicpsychologicalandspiritualneedsthateveryhumanbeinghas
becauseGodmadehumansthatway(Genesis1).
• WearecreatedintheimageofGod.
• Someofthebasicpsychologicalandspiritualneedsinclude:3
Ø Securityorlove
Ø Significanceormeaningandimpact
Ø Hopeandforgiveness
• TheseneedscanonlybemetinarelationshipwithJesusChrist.
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• Wetrytomeettheseneedsmanyotherways(secular).
• Some theologians do not like the term, “needs.” These “needs” can also be
addressedaslongings.
6. Thebasicproblemthatwehaveashumanbeingsinthisworldissin.
• Peopleavoidthetopicofsin.
• Allofone’spersonalandpsychologicalproblemsarenotduetosin.
• HumanbeingsarefallenalthoughtheywerecreatedintheimageofGod.
“ForallhavesinnedandfallshortofthegloryofGod.”—Romans3:23
“AndHewentalittlebeyondthem,andfelltothegroundandbegantopraythat
if it were possible, the hour might pass Him by. And He was saying, ‘Abba!
Father!AllthingsarepossibleforYou;removethiscupfromMe;yetnotwhatI
will,butwhatYouwill.’”—Mark14:35-36
7. TheultimategoalofhumanityistoknowGodandhavespiritualhealth.
• Synchronyisdesiredbetweenone’semotional,physicalandspiritualhealth.
• Inheavenwewillbeperfectedemotionally,physicallyandspiritually.
• KnowGodbyenjoyingHimforever.
• Sometimes God allows mental, physical, emotional and spiritual struggles in
ordertodeepenourspiritualwellnessinGod.
• Therecanbeparadoxicalblessingsthroughanguish.
“Fortome,toliveisChristandtodieisgain.”—Philippians1:21
“AndHehassaidtome,‘Mygraceissufficientforyou,forpowerisperfectedin
weakness.’Mostgladly, therefore, Iwill ratherboastaboutmyweaknesses, so
that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with
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weaknesses,with insults,withdistresses,withpersecutions,withdifficulties,for
Christ’ssake;forwhenIamweak,thenIamstrong.”—2Corinthians12:9-10
8. Problem feelings are usually due to problem behaviors, and more fundamentally
problemthinking.
• The Bible has verses that suggest that our thinking affects our feelings and
behavior.
• Ourbehavioraffectsourfeelingstoo.
• Ourfeelingscanaffectourbehaviorandthinkingaswell.
• Itisimportanttolookatourthinking,andtothinkbiblically.
• InChristiancounseling, it is importanttoattendtoaperson’sthinking,feelings
andbehavior.
“Anddonotbeconformedtothisworld,butbetransformedbytherenewingof
yourmind,sothatyoumayprovewhatthewillofGodis,thatwhichisgoodand
acceptableandperfect.”—Romans12:2
“Andyouwillknowthetruth,andthetruthwillmakeyoufree.”—John8:32
9. Haveaholistic,comprehensiveviewofthehumanbeing.
• Allofushavephysical,mental,emotional,socialandspiritualdimensions.
• Wehavetolookatthewholepersonwhenhelpingpeople.
“And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and
men.”—Luke2:52
V. BasicPrinciplesofEffectiveCounselingandPsychotherapy
A. ABiblicalPerspective
1. TheHolySpirit’sministryaascounseloriscrucial,dependonHim.
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2. TheBibleisabasicandcomprehensive,thoughnotexhaustive,guideforcounseling.
“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for
correction,fortraininginrighteousness.”—2Timothy3:16
3. Prayerisanintegralpartofbiblicalcounseling.
“Therefore,confessyoursinstooneanother,andprayforoneanothersothatyou
maybehealed.Theeffectiveprayerofarighteousmancanaccomplishmuch.”
—James5:16
“Praywithoutceasing.”—1Thessalonians5:17
4. The ultimate goal in counseling is maturity in Christ and fulfilling the great
commission.
5. Thepersonalqualitiesofthecounselorareimportant,especiallyspiritualones.
• Congruence(genuineness)
• Unconditionalpositiveregard(respect/warmth)
• Empatheticunderstanding(empathy)
“Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, youwhoare spiritual, restore
suchaoneinaspiritofgentleness;eachonelookingtoyourself,sothatyoutoowill
notbetempted.Bearoneanother’sburdens,andtherebyfulfillthelawofChrist.”
—Galatians6:1-2
“Andconcerningyou,mybrethren, Imyselfalsoamconvinced thatyouyourselves
are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able also to admonish one
another.”—Romans15:14
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6. Theclient’sattitudes,motivationsanddesiresforhelparealsoimportant.
7. The relationship between the counselor and the client is a significant factor in
effectivecounseling.
8. Effective counseling is a process involving exploration, understanding and action
phases,anditusuallyfocusesonchangingproblemthinking.
9. Thestyleorapproachincounselingshouldbeflexible.
10. Specifictechniques,ormethodsofcounseling,shouldbeconsistentwithScripture.
11. Culturalsensitivityandcross-culturalskillsarealsorequired.
12. Outreach and prevention skills, in the context of a caring community, are also
important.
13. Haveanawarenessoflimitationsandreferralskills.
VI. Resource
Siang-Yang Tan, Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy: A Christian Perspective
(GrandRapids,Michigan:BakerPublishingGroup,2011).
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Endnotes1J.D.CarterandS.B.Narramore,TheIntegrationofPsychologyandTheology(GrandRapids,Michigan:Zondervan,1979).2E. L. Johnson and S. L. Jones, Psychology and Christianity: Four Views (Downers Grove, Illinois: IVP Academic,2000).3Larry Crabb, Effective Biblical Counseling: A Model for Helping Caring Christians Become Capable Counselors(Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan, 1977). Larry Crabb, Understanding People (Grand Rapids, Michigan,Zondervan,1987).
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Lesson2
ChristianFaithinClinicalPractice:Implicitand
ExplicitIntegration
Siang-YangTan,Ph.D.
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Abstract
This session addresses implicit and explicit integration in regards to Christian counseling.
Implicitandexplicit integrationareonoppositesidesofthecontinuum,butneitherapproach
stands superior to the other. When practicing with explicit integration, there are specific
resources that one can use such as prayer, scripture and referrals to religious groups.Many
spiritual issues will be dealt with in therapy even when they are presented existentially.
Further,theroleofspiritualdisciplinescannotbeoverlooked.Therearetwooverarchingareas
that spiritual disciplineswill be categorized as: traditional or authentic. This session seeks to
address these spiritual concerns while signifying the supportive research on the spiritual
integrationintoChristian,clinicalpractice.
LearningObjectives
1. Participants will be able to identify the differences between implicit and explicit
integration.
2. Participantswillgainamoresufficientunderstandingofthevariousdifferentmethods
ofbothimplicitandexplicitintegration.
3. Participantswilllearnthedifferentcategoriesofspiritualdisciplines.
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I. ImplicitandExplicitIntegration
A. ChristianCounseling
1. Christian counseling is counseling or people helping done by a Christian who is
Christcentered,BiblebasedandSpiritfilled.
2. GodwillguideyouinthemorepracticalwaysforhelpingpeoplethroughChristian
counseling.
3. Christiancounselingcanalsobedefinedasconsecratedcounseling.
4. Buffet(1997)givesthedefinitionofconsecratedcounselingas,“Counselingismost
trulyChristianwhenthecounselorhasadeepfaith,counselswithexcellence,holds
aChristianworldview,isguidedbyChristianvaluesinchoosingthemeans,goalsand
motivationsofcounseling,activelyseeksthepresenceandworkofGodandactively
utilizesspiritualinterventionsandresourceswithinethicalguidelines.”
B. ImplicitIntegration1
1. “Implicit integration refers to amore covert, or quiet, approach to integration. It
doesnot initiatethediscussionofreligiousorspiritual issuesanddoesnotopenly,
directlyorsystematicallyusespiritualresources.”
C. ExplicitIntegration2
1. “Explicit integrationisamoreovertapproachthatdirectlyandsystematicallydeals
withspiritualorreligious issues intherapyandusesspiritualresources likeprayer,
Scripture or sacred text, referrals to other religious groups or lay counselors and
otherreligiouspractices.”
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D. TheContinuum
1. Implicitandexplicitintegrationareonoppositeendsofacontinuum.
2. Oneisnotbetterthantheother.
3. By integrating faith in clinical practice, one has to remember that intentional,
prayerfulintegrationisthekeywhetheritisimplicitorexplicit.
• Itdependsontheclient,theproblem,theissuesandtheschooloftherapythe
counseloriscounselingfrom.
4. Keepinmind,thatasacounselor,onehastobeflexible.
E. Examples
1. ImplicitintegrationisrelevantforclientswhoarenotChristians.
• Sometimes there are opportunities to share one’s faith ethically if informed
consentisgiven.
• You move along the continuum from session-to-session, even with the same
client,dependingontheneedsofthemoment.
2. Even if the client is a Christian, sometimes a more implicit form of counseling is
necessary.
3. Spiritualinterventionsmustberelevanttotheclinicalproblem.
4. ExplicitintegrationisrelevantforthosewhocomeinseekingChristianhelp.
5. Theparticulartheoreticalpositionthatthecounselorispracticingfromimpactsthe
approachtoimplicitorexplicitintegration.
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F. AspectsOfImplicitIntegration
1. Implicit integration is still considered integration because one is conscious, as a
Christiancounselor,ofthepresenceofGod.
2. TheyaredependingontheHolySpirittoguidethesessionandproduceagapelove.
3. Thecounselor-clientrelationshipisimportantforgoodtherapy.
G. AspectsofExplicitIntegration
1. Explicit integration includesat leastthreemajoraspectsordimensions inChristian
therapy.
2. Ethically,theclientmustgiveinformedconsent.
3. Thecounselor’sparticularChristianbeliefs andperspectives shouldbe similar,but
notnecessarilyidentical,withtheclient’sChristianity.
II. TheUseofReligiousandSpiritualResourcesinTherapy
A. Prayer
1. PrayercanbeusedinmanydifferentwaysinChristiancounseling:
• AtthebeginningofthesessiontoaskforGod’sguidanceandhealing
• Inthemiddle
• Attheendofthesessiontoclose
• Anytimewhenappropriate
2. Therearedifferentformsofprayer:
• Prayersofconfession
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• Prayersofadoration
• Prayersofthanksgiving
• Prayersofpetitionforoneself
• Prayersofintercessionforothers
• Silentprayer
3. Inner-healingprayerisaveryspecific,Christianinterventioninexplicitintegration.
4. Make sure that the client is willing and able to proceed with the inner-healing
prayer.
5. Therearesevenstepstotheinner-healingprayer3:
• Beginwith prayer for protection fromevil, and ask for the power and healing
ministryoftheHolySpirittotakecontrolofthesession.
• Guidetheclient intoarelaxedstate,usuallybybriefrelaxationstrategies(e.g.,
slow, deep breathing, calming self-talk, pleasant imagery, prayer, and Bible
imagery).
• Guide the client to focus attention on a painful past event or traumatic
experience,andtofeeldeeplythepain,hurt,anger,andsoforth.
• Prayerfullyask theLord,by thepowerof theHolySpirit, tocometo theclient
and minister his comfort, love, and healing grace (even gently rebuke where
necessary). It may be Jesus imagery or other healing imagery, music
(song/hymn), Scriptures, a sense of his presence or warmth, or other
manifestationoftheSpirit’sworking.Nospecificguidedimageryorvisualization
isprovidedordirectlygivenatthispoint.
• Waitquietlyupon theLord tominister to theclientwithhishealinggraceand
truth.Guideandspeakonly ifnecessaryand ledby theHolySpirit. Inorder to
follow or track with the client, the counselor will periodically and gently ask,
“What’shappening?Whatareyoufeelingorexperiencingnow?”
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• Closeinprayer.
• Debriefanddiscusstheinner-healingprayerexperiencewiththeclient.
B. Example
C. Scripture
1. Scripturescanbeusedto:
• Comfort
• Clarifyorguide
• Correctorcognitivelyrestructure
• Changecharacter
• Cleanse
• Convict
• “Cure”orheal
2. Ithelps tremendously for thecounselor toknowtheBiblewellenough tocite the
chapterandverse.
• GetintotheScripturessothattheScripturescangetintoyou.
D. ReferraltoReligiousGroups
1. Godwantsustogrowandhealincommunity.
2. Encourageclientstoattendchurch,asupportgroup,andafellowship/smallgroup.
3. Lay counselors canbeveryhelpful, especiallywhen the clienthasexhausted their
financesinprofessionalcounseling.
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III. DealingwithSpiritualIssuesinTherapy
A. TheScope
1. Allkindsofissuescancomeintotherapy.
2. Theissuescanbepresentedasexistential,buttheyarealsospiritual.
B. Awareness
1. Anon-Christiancanbringupthemeaninglessnessoflife.
2. AChristiancanbedealingwith:
Ø DoubtsofGod
Ø Doctrinalissues
Ø Guilt
Ø Depression
Ø Sin
Ø Rebellion
3. Thetherapist,orChristiancounselor,mustbeawareofthesethings.
IV. Fostering Impersonal Integration and theDevelopment of Spirituality in
theTherapistandtheClient
A. TheRoleofSpiritualDisciplines
1. Donotoveremphasizespiritualdisciplinesforthesakeofspiritualdisciplines.
2. Allreligionsengageinspiritualdisciplines.
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3. Spiritual disciplines must be energized, empowered and motivated by the Holy
Spirit.
4. TheymustcomeoutofadeeplongingandloveforGod.
B. TraditionalSpiritualDisciplines4
1. Solitude:
• WhenempoweredbytheHolySpirit,itwillhelpusdrawneartoGod.
• It includes: solitude in silence, listening and guidance, prayer, studying and
meditationonScriptures.
2. Surrender:
• WhenempoweredbytheHolySpirit,itwillenableustoyieldtoGod.
• It includes: repentance and confessionof sins, yielding and submission toGod
andHiswill,fastingandworship.
3. Service:
• WhenempoweredbytheHolySpirit,ithelpsustoreachouttoothers.
• Itincludes:fellowshipwithotherChristians,simplicity,serviceandwitnessing.
C. AuthenticDisciplines5
1. Circumstantial spiritual disciplines are those thatwe do not have a choice in and
theyhappenbecauseGodhasallowedthemorcausedthem.Weexperiencethese
underthehandsofalovingandholyGodtodeepenandpurifyus.
2. Authenticdisciplinesinclude:
• Selflessness
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• Waiting
• Suffering
• Prosecution
• Socialmercy
• Forgiveness
• Mourning
• Contentment
• Sacrifice
• Hope
• Fear
3. Thecognitivecategory:
• Meditation
• Listening
• Scripture
• Study
• Prayer
• Discernment
4. Thebehavioralcategoryincludes:
• Simplicity
• Frugality
• Fasting
• Chastity
• Bodycare
• Saying“No”or“Yes”
• Slowing
• Sabbath
• Solitude
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• Silence
• Secrecy
• Service/servanthood
• Sacrifice
• Suffering
• Dyingwell
5. Theinterpersonaldisciplinesinclude:
• Confession
• Repentance
• Forgiveness
• Submission
• Humility
• Worship
• Eucharist
• Singing
• Celebration
• Fellowship
• Community
• Hospitality
• Healing
• Witnessing
• Testimony
• Intercession
• Guidance
V. Research
A. Today
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1. Theempiricalstatusofreligiousandspiritualtherapies,includingChristianformsof
therapy, reveals that religious and spiritual therapies are more effective than no
treatmentandmoreeffectivethansomeoftheothercontrolledtreatments.
2. They are equally effective as comparable treatments in length of treatment and
theoreticalorientation,atleastonpsychologicalmeasures.
3. Onspiritualmeasurestheydobetterthansecularversions.
B. SupportingChristianIntegration
1. ThescientificfindingsgiveempiricalsupporttoseveralChristianformsoftherapy.
2. Christian forms of cognitive therapy are especially effective for depression and
anxiety.
VI. Resources
Gary R. Collins, Christian Counseling: A Comprehensive Guide 3rd Edition (Nashville,
Tennessee:ThomasNelson,2007).
John G. Kruis, Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling 3rd Edition (Grand Rapids,
Michigan:BakerAcademic,2000).
Thomas G. Plante, Spiritual Practices in Psychotherapy: Thirteen Tools for Enhancing
PsychologicalHealth(Washington,DC:AmericanPsychologicalAssociation,2009).
P. Scott Richards and Allen E. Bergin, A Spiritual Strategy for Counseling and
Psychotherapy(Washington,DC:AmericanPsychologicalAssociation,1997).
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P.ScottRichardsandAllenE.Bergin,CasebookforaSpiritualStrategyinCounselingand
Psychotherapy(Washington,DC:AmericanPsychologicalAssociation,2004).
P Scott Richards and Allen E. Bergin, A Spiritual Strategy in Counseling and
Psychotherapy2ndEdition(Washington,DC:AmericanPsychologicalAssociation,2005).
Siang-Yang Tan, Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy: A Christian Perspective
(GrandRapids,Michigan:BakerPublishingGroup,2011).
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Endnotes1Siang-YangTan,“ReligioninClinicalPractice:ImplicitandExplicitIntegration,”inReligionandtheClinicalPracticeofPsychology,ed.E.P.Shafranske(Washington,DC:AmericanPsychologicalAssociation,1996),365-387.2Ibid.3Sian-YangTan,“InnerHealingPrayer,”ChristianCounselingToday11(4)(2003),20-22.4Siang-YangTanandDouglasH.Gregg,DisciplinesoftheHolySpirit(GrandRapids,Michigan:Zondervan,1997).5GaryL.Thomas,AuthenticFaith:ThePowerofaFire-TestedLife(GrandRapids,Michigan:Zondervan,2002).
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Lesson3
TheHolySpiritandChristianSpiritualityin
CounselingandPsychotherapy
Siang-YangTan,Ph.D.
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Abstract
ThissessionaddressesthecrucialimportanceoftheHolySpiritinChristianityandcounselingaswellas
its implications for the future.OnecannotperformChristiancounseling if thepowerandpresenceof
theHolySpiritisnotintimatelyknown.NotonlyistheworkoftheHolySpiritasignificantfactorwhen
counseling,buttheHolySpiritalsoplaysaprominentroleinthedailylivesofChristians.Therearethree
majorareasoftheSpirit’sministryandworkinthecontextofChristiancounselingandpsychotherapy,
which are: the Spirit’s power and gifts, the Spirit’s truth, and the Spirit’s fruit. All of these areas are
importantfortheChristianandtheChristiancounselor.Whenalignedindivineorder,thereisabiblical
balanceintheworkoftheHolySpiritwithindividuallivesandChristiancounseling.Thedirectroleofthe
Holy Spirit, in regards to counseling, will be addressed and expounded upon, and it is important to
rememberthatChristianspiritualityhastobecenteredinJesusandtheworkoftheHolySpirit.
LearningObjectives
1. Participants will be able to identify and explain the threemajor areas of the Spirit’s
ministry.
2. ParticipantswillacquiretheknowledgeoftheroleoftheHolySpiritincounseling.
3. Participants will become aware of the implications that spiritual foundations in
counselingprovide.
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I. TheRoleoftheHolySpirit
A. CrucialImportance
1. TheHolySpiritiscrucial,centralandabsolutelyessentialinChristiancounseling.
2. OnecannotdoChristiancounselingifhe/shedoesnotknowintimatelythepresence
andpoweroftheHolySpirit.
• DependonHim.
3. GodcreatedusinHisimagetofellowshipwithHim.
4. Wearecreatedtobeintouchrelationallywiththepeopleofthisworld.
• BringthemtoJesussothattheymayalsojointhecommunityofpeoplethatGod
hascalledusto.
B. TheWorkandtheMinistryoftheHolySpiritinChristianCounseling
1. TheHolySpiritisanimportantdoctrineforChristians.
2. Inthefieldofsystematictheology,thereisawholeareacalledpneumatology,which
isthedoctrineoftheHolySpirit.
3. Three major areas of the Spirit’s ministry and work in the context of Christian
counselingandpsychotherapyinclude:
• TheSpirit’spowerandgifts
• TheSpirit’struth
• TheSpirit’sfruit
II. TheSpirit’sPowerandGifts
A. Power
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1. ThepoweroftheHolySpiritisessentialintheChristianlifeandministry.
• Witnessing
• Evangelism
“But youwill receive powerwhen theHoly Spirit has comeupon you; and you
shallbeMywitnessesbothinJerusalem,andinallJudeaandSamaria,andeven
totheremotestpartoftheearth.”—Acts1:8
2. ThepoweroftheHolySpirit,accordingtoActs1:8,isintimatelyconnectedwiththe
ministryofwitnessing,worldevangelismandmissions.
3. TheHoly Spirit givesus thepower, thegraceand theability to speakabout Jesus
boldlyinagracefilledwaysothatothersmaycometoknowJesus.
B. TheNeed
1. WeneedthepowerandthepresenceoftheHolySpiritineveryareaofourlivesand
ministry.
2. ThisneedincludesChristiancounseling.
3. InEphesians5:18,theBiblecommandsustobefilledwiththeSpirit.
“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the
Spirit.”—Ephesians5:18
4. TheGreekinthisverseisofapresent,continuoustense.
• BecontinuallyfilledwiththeSpirit.
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5. WeneedtheHolySpirit’spresenceinourlivestobeabletobecomemorelikeJesus
andtodotheworksofJesus.
C. Engage
1. AllChristiansneedtoknowhowtobefilledwiththeSpirit.
2. BillBrightsuggeststhefollowingonhowtoliveaSpiritfilledlife1:
• ConfessoursinstoGod
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to
cleanseusfromallunrighteousness.”—1John1:9
3. The list of seven deadly sins is a helpful list to use in times of confession, deep
reflectionandsorrowbeforeGodwhomwehavegrievedwheneverwesin.
4. GregorytheGreatcameupwithalistofsevendeadlysinswhichincludes:
• Pride
• Lust
• Envy
• Anger
• Greed
• Gluttony
• Sloth
5. ThesecondstepafterconfessionisaskingtobefilledwiththeSpirit.2
6. ThefillingoftheHolySpiritissimilartotheLordshipofChrist.
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7. ThefillingoftheHolySpirithappensmanytimes.
• Allthroughouttheday
• Everyday
D. Gifts
1. TheHolySpirit’spowerismanifestedthroughspiritualgifts.
2. TherearefourmajorpassageswithinScriptureconcerningspiritualgifts.
• Romans12
• 1Corinthians12
• Ephesians4
• 1Peter4
3. Theselistarenotexhaustive.
4. TheHoly Spirit gives us spiritual gifts to empower and enable us to bemore like
Jesus,todotheworkofministryandtheworkofJesus.
5. In the original Greek, these gifts can be translated as “droplets of grace” or
“gracelets”.
• Thismakesitharderforustobepridefulinthem.
• Theyarenotours.
• Theyaregiventous.
6. ThereareatleastsixspiritualgiftsthattheHolySpiritcangivesusinthecontextof
counselingandpeoplehelping:
• Exhortation/encouragement(Romans12:8)
• Healing(1Corinthians12:9,28)
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• Wisdom(1Corinthians12:8)
• Knowledge(1Corinthians12:8)
• Discernment(1Corinthians12:10)
• Mercy(Romans12:8)
7. Thereareothergifts:
• Prophecy
• Teaching
• Faith
• Miracles
• Tongues
• Intercession
8. Inthefinalanalysis, it isnotaboutspiritualgifts.It isallaboutbecomingmorelike
Jesus.ItisallaboutbeingfaithfulandfruitfulinChrist.
9. Evenifyouarenotgifted,butyouarefaithfullyfollowingandobeyingHim,thenHe
willuseyoubythepoweroftheSpirit.
10. TheHolySpiritmaynotgiveyouaparticulargiftbecauseHeknowsthedangerof
ourtendenciestodependonthegifttoomuchratherthantodependonHim.
• Hewillgiveusgracetocompensateforthelackofgiftednessandstilluseus.
11. Giftednessisnoteverything.Godiseverything.
12. Sometimesgiftednessgetsintheway.
13. Putprioritiesintherightorder.
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14. ThecallingofGodismoreimportantthangifting.
15. Theway,wordandwisdomofGodiskey.
III. TheSpirit’sTruth
A. Scripture1. TheSpirit’struthismentionedinJohn14:26and16:13.
“ButtheHelper,theHolySpirit,whomtheFatherwillsendinMyname,Hewillteach
youallthings,andbringtoyourremembranceallthatIsaidtoyou.”—John14:26
“ButwhenHe,theSpiritoftruth,comes,Hewillguideyouintoallthetruth;forHe
willnotspeakonHisowninitiative,butwhateverHehears,Hewillspeak;andHewill
disclosetoyouwhatistocome.”—John16:13
2. TheHolySpiritistheSpiritoftruth.
3. The Holy Spirit will guide us into all truth including psychological and theological
truth.
4. Hewillguideusintoeternaltruththatwilleventuallysetusfree.
“Andyouwillknowthetruth,andthetruthwillmakeyoufree.”—John8:32
B. Inspiration
1. TheHolySpiritistheonewhoinspiredthesupernaturalwritingoftheScriptures.
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2. TheScriptureistheWordofGod.
3. TheHolySpirit,whoinspiredthewritingoftheBible,isthesameHolySpiritwhowill
explaintousthetruthofGod’sWord.
C. TheSpiritofTruth
1. HewillnotcontradictthetruththatHeinspiredinthewritingsofScripture.
2. Ifwe sense aword, guidanceor experience fromGod that contradicts theoverall
teachingofScripture,thenitcannotbefromtheHolySpirit.
3. ItisimportantforustobeWordcentered,asweareSpiritfilled.
4. ThatiswhyaChristiancounselorisChristcenteredfirst,becauseinChrist,wehave
allthings.Next,ChristiancounselorsareBiblebasedfollowedbySpiritfilled.
IV. TheSpirit’sFruit
A. Scripture
1. InGalatians5:22-23,theword“fruit”issingular,notplural.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”—
Galatians5:22-23
2. Thereisonefruitandninedescriptions.
3. SomeBiblescholarssuggestthatthereisreallyonlyonefruitoftheSpirit.
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• ThefruitoftheSpiritislove,agapelove,whichisalsomanifestedinjoy,peace,
patience,kindness,goodness,faithfulness,gentlenessandself-control.
4. Thepurposeofspiritualfruitistoblessothers(blessing).
5. ItisimportanttoseethecentralityoftheHolySpirit’sfruit.
• Thefruitoflove
“Loveisthemostpowerfultherapeuticforceintheworld.”—GordonAllport
6. Love is deeper and purer and more in line with God’s truth than warmth,
genuinenessandempathy.
V. BiblicalBalance
A. TheWorkoftheHolySpiritinOurLivesandChristianCounseling
1. There is a biblical balance in theworkof theHoly Spirit in our lives andChristian
counseling.
2. TheorderoftheworkoftheHolySpiritshouldbe:
• TheSpirit’spowerandgifts
• TheSpirit’struth
• TheSpirit’sfruit
3. ThedangercomeswhenweelevatetheSpirit’spowerandgiftswithouttruth.
• Thisbordersonheresy.
4. Ifweemphasize the Spirit’s power andgiftswithout love, thenwe canborderon
abuse.
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• Inorder toavoidbeing spiritually abusiveand spirituallyheretical,weneed to
havetheHolySpirit’spowerandgiftsinthecontextofHisloveandtruth.
• Weshouldhavepower,inlove,basedontruth.
B. TheWorkoftheHolySpiritinCounseling
1. TheHolySpiritcandirectlyhelpthetherapistquicklyandaccuratelydiscerntheroot
problemsof the client;providing theChristian therapistwith specific and relevant
wordsofknowledgeorwisdom.
• Spiritualgifts:1Corinthians12:8
2. The Holy Spirit can provide spiritual direction regarding God’s will to both the
Christian therapist and the client as they participate in more explicit integration
practiceslikeprayingtogether,discussingScriptureandexploringspiritualissues.
3. TheHolySpiritcandirectly touchaclient inapowerfulwaywithhishealinggrace
andpowerinthesession.
• This can lead to “quantumchange”, sudden insights andepiphanies thatbring
transformationtoordinarylives.
4. TheHolySpiritcanalsoenableaChristiantherapisttodiscernthepresenceofthe
demonic.
• If a demon is present, then there is usually a strong negative reaction to the
nameofJesusortoanythingChristian.
• If a demon is present, then there is also anoverwhelming senseof evil in the
presenceofthatperson.
• Ifyoudoaproperhistoryevaluation,then,oftentimes,youwillfindthatthereis
ahistoryofinvolvementwithcultsortheoccultintheclient’spast.
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• Ifademonispresent,thesmellofsulfur(rotteneggs)maynotifythetherapist’s
senses.
• Ifalloftheaboveconditionsexist,thenademonicspiritmaybepresentinthe
client.
• Givenconsent,andprayingforGod’sanointingandprotectingonyourself,you
canpraythefollowing,“InthenameofJesusIcommandyoutoleavethisperson
and go wherever Jesus sends you, never to come back to afflict this person
again.”
• PrayforthebloodofChristtocovertheclientandfortheSpiritofChristtofill
theclient.
• HelptheclienttocontinuetowalkwithJesususingthespiritualdisciplines.
5. TheHoly Spirit can alsowork deeply in spiritual transformation of both the client
andthecounselor.
• HeoftendoesthisbyusingthedisciplinesoftheHolySpirit.
VI. QuietTime
A. Everyday
1. ItisimportanttofindtimetobequietbeforeGodeveryday.
2. FindtimetobeinsolitudealonewithGod,butalsoinsilencetowaituponGod.
3. Formanydrivenpeople,quiettimesarerushed.
• GodisverygrievedthatwedonothaveenoughtimetospendwithHim.
• WehaveenoughtimeforeverythingelsebutGod.
B. StructuringaQuietTime
1. Asuggestedquiettimeisasfollows:pray,readtheBible,andthenprayagain.
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• But,sometimesGodspeakstousbestinsilence.
2. A revisedversionofaquiet time is:pray,bequiet,pray,bequiet, read theBible,
pray,bequiet,readtheBible,etc.
• Wecannotrush.
• Weneedtosetthisasapriority.
• Therefore, we need to ask the Holy Spirit to help us have the right kind of
relationshipwithtechnology.
C. TheWorkingsoftheHolySpirit
1. TheHolySpiritusesthespiritualdisciplinestodeepenourlifeinChristandtomake
usmorelikeJesus.
2. He sends, alongwith the triuneGod, authenticdisciplines topruneus,deepenus
andpurifyustobecomemorelikeJesus.
• Waiting
• Mourning
• Suffering
• Persecution
3. WehavetounderstandsomeoftheHolySpirit’sdeeperwaysofworking,themore
“mystical”aspectsofthespirituallife,andexplainthesethingstoourclientssothat
theyarenotconfused;sotheycanrealizethatwhentheydonotfeelthepresence
ofGod,itwillbegoodfortheminthelongrun.
• Wedonotjudgethem.
• Wesupportthem.
• Wepraywith/forthem.
• Wewaitwiththem.
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4. Real depth therapy is therapy performed in the power and presence of the Holy
Spirit.
VII. TheHolySpiritandChristianSpirituality
A. TheCenter
1. TheHoly Spirit is theonewho forms the imageof Christ in us so thatwe canbe
morelikeJesus.
2. ChristianspiritualityhastobecenteredinJesusandtheworkoftheHolySpirit.
• ThismakesusmoresensitivetowhatGodwants.
3. Christianspiritualityisnotjustaboutfeelinggood,butitisallaboutfollowingJesus,
truediscipleshipandbecomingmorelikeJesus.
• ItisultimatelytheworkoftheHolySpiritandnottheworkofourowndoing.
• DiscipleshipmakingisultimatelytheworkoftheHolySpirit.
B. TheSpiritualityoftheCounselor
1. ThecounseloristheservantofChrist.
2. Inservanthood,welearntogrowinspirituality.
C. TrueChristianSpiritualityCharacteristics
1. ChristianspiritualitymeanshavingadeephungerorthirstforGod.
2. ChristianspiritualitymeanshavingaloveforGodandapersonalknowledgeofGod
thatwillleadtoworshipofGodandaloveforothers.
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3. Christian spirituality means being filled with the Holy Spirit and surrendering to
God’sdeepeningworkofgraceinourheartsandnotyieldingtothesinfulnatureof
thefleshinus.
4. ChristianspiritualitymeansdiscoveringandusingthespiritualgiftsgivenbytheHoly
SpiritforGod’spurposesandglory;bearingforththefruitoftheSpiritasultimately
agapeorChrist-likeloveandbecomingmoreChrist-likeineveryareaofourlivesand
character.
5. Christianspiritualitymeansdevelopingbiblicalthinkingandhavingaworldviewthat
isconsistentwithGod’seternalperspectiveasrevealedintheBible.
6. Christianspiritualitymeansbeinginvolvedinspiritualwarfarethatrequirestheuse
of spiritual power and resources from God, and especially the use of prayer and
ScriptureinthepoweroftheHolySpirit,toovercometheworld,oursinfulfleshand
thedevil.
“Finally,bestrongintheLordandinthestrengthofHismight.”—Ephesians6:10
“AndHe has said tome, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in
weakness.’Mostgladly,therefore,Iwillratherboastaboutmyweaknesses,sothat
thepowerofChristmaydwellinme.ThereforeIamwellcontentwithweaknesses,
withinsults,withdistresses,withpersecutions,withdifficulties,forChrist’ssake;for
whenIamweak,thenIamstrong.”—2Corinthians12:9-10
7. Christianspiritualitymeansthat therearemysticalaspectsandexperiences, in the
depths of spirituality, which transform us to be more like Jesus, and it includes
sharinginthefellowshipofChrist’ssufferings.
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D. Goal
1. TheultimategoalofChristiancounselingisnotjustthealleviationofsymptoms,but
thegoalistounderstandthemeaningofthesufferingandwhatGodisdoing.
2. GrowinChrist.
3. BecomemorelikeJesus.
• Thiscanincludetheblessingofmentalanguish.
VIII. FutureDirections
A. ChristianCounselingandPsychotherapy
1. Thereisaneedforethicalpractice.
2. Wehave todo someethical reflectionson someof thenewdevelopments in the
field.
• Digitalformsoftherapy
B. 12EmergingDirectionsfortheFutureofPsychotherapy3:
1. Economics
2. Mentalhealthcare
3. Evidenced-basedpractice
4. Importanceofthetherapyrelationship
5. Technologicalapplications
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6. Self-helpresources
7. Neuroscience
8. Behavioralhealth
9. Proactivetreatmentofpopulations
10. Faith-basedpractices
11. Positivepsychology
12. Integrationofpsychotherapyorpharmacotherapy
C. 5MajorDevelopmentsintheAreaofIntegration4
1. Christiantherapistswillneedtoexplaintheirviewofpsychotherapytoincludeother
modalitiessuchascoaching,spiritualformationanddiscipleship.
2. Significantprogresswillbemadeinsynthesizingwhatcanbecurrentlyperceivedas
distinctmodelsofintegrationbytheoreticiansinvolvingintegrativework.
3. Therewillbeagreaterneedforhigherqualityempiricalresearch.
4. The level of understanding and application of psychological science is to be
upgradedinChristianintegration.
5. ThelevelofsophisticationofthebiblicalandtheologicalmaterialusedbyChristian
integratorsmustalsobeenhancedandupgraded.
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D. 25TrendsinCounselingastheFieldMatures:5
1. The21stcenturycodeofethics
2. Advocacyfortheclientsandthemarginalized
3. Nationalcredentialing
4. Academicandclinicalaccreditation
5. Layhelpingministry
6. Spiritualrelationshipformation
7. Biblicalandtheologicaldepth
8. E-counselingandtheuseofInternettechnologies
9. Expandingcuttingedgemodesofcare
10. Inter-professionalrelations
11. Workingwithfaithbasedinitiatives
12. Intensivecareforcounselorsandpastors
13. Distanceandonlineeducation
14. Continuingeducationandcertificateprograms
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15. CulturalprogramsforChristiancounselingleaders
16. Heightenedmulticulturalsensitivity
17. Newandmorerefinedresearch
18. Saltandlightministry
19. Globalization
20. Floweringintoamaturemultidisciplinaryprofession
21. Theoreticalintegrationreachingmaturity
22. Integrationwithmedicineandlaw
23. Brainimagingandneuroscience
24. Positivepsychologymovement
25. Spiritualhungerandtheemergingchurch
IX. Resources
BillBright,HaveYouMadetheWonderfulDiscoveryoftheSpirit-FilledLife?(Peachtree,
Georgia:NewLifePublications,1990).
WrenGrudem,SystematicTheology:AnIntroductiontoBiblicalDoctrine(GrandRapids,
Michigan:Zondervan,1994).
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Endnotes1BillBright,HowYouCanBeFilledwiththeHolySpirit(PeachtreeCity,Georgia:CampusCrusadeforChrist,NewLifeResources,2010).2Ibid.3J. S. Prochaskaand J. C.Norcross,Systemsof Psychotherapy:ATrans-TheoreticalAnalysis 7th Edition (Belmont,California:Brooks/Cole,2010).4J.R.Beck,“Integration:TheNext50Years,”JournalofPsychologyandChristianity25(2006),321-330.5T.ClintonandG.Ohlschlager,“TheMaturationofChristianCounseling:RepriseonaPreferredFuture,”ChristianCounselingToday14(4)(2006),32-35.
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