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Essay / Pragmatic Assimilation of Christian Counseling
Mark McMinn deliberately writes this double book to first address the pragmatic assimilation of psychology, theology, and spirituality. Second, it explores the spirituality of a Christian counselor and how this aspect of character affects the methods he can use to represent Jesus Christ when dealing with his clients. Overall, this book discusses the dual necessity for biblical counselors to multitask with their clients while also pursuing personal development in spirituality to advance a Christian worldview. The goal is “to help Christian counselors and researchers unite around some key questions and perspectives so that our interventions become increasingly relevant and effective” (p. 6). McMinn (2011) establishes the current history of the integration of psychology and theology, and quickly makes transitions. the need to include spirituality in counseling sessions; he considers three questions: Will this help establish a healthy sense of self? Will this help establish a healing relationship (McMinn, 2011, p. 32). These three components aim for psychological and spiritual health. Christian counseling helps the client move away from neediness, a flawed sense of self, and relationships toward “an assured sense of self, an awareness of human needs and limitations.” , and revealing interpersonal relationships with others and, more importantly, with God” (p. 59) provides the intervention tools necessary for effective therapy. However, among the six challenges, advisors can see the risks associated with implementing the tools suggested with: defining relevant ethical standards, establishing a scientific basis, confronting dominant visions of health, expanded definitions of training, fuzzy people... middle of article......not be based on my own understanding and interpretations. Yes, I must incorporate my personal knowledge into counseling sessions, but I must discipline myself to lean heavily on God for ultimate confirmation and decision-making with clients. I cannot instill tools or help the client become aware of themselves and their needs without humbly accepting. that my thoughts and actions are fallible because I am simply human. Although I have not yet practiced counseling, I know that one of the most important changes I need to make in my life is to understand and know a person's situation before assessing and trying to offer him divine guidance. Effective intra-disciplinary integration is intended for my professional humility. I cannot counsel any client without truly knowing who he or she is and allowing God to show me the most effective technique to create change in that person's life...