Counseling Influences: Part 2 - Biblical Counseling

This is the second in a series outlining my major counseling influences.  Last week I outlined Adlerian Theory (check it out HERE) and this week I will explore the basics of Biblical Counseling and how it has impacted my counseling theory and practice.

Biblical Counseling addresses clients from a holistic perspective of body, mind, and soul.  It affirms that the gospel Jesus Christ as represented in the Bible is the only way to full and lasting life and joy.  The counselor, guided by the Holy Spirit and prayer and instructed by scripture, must attempt to speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all (1 Thessalonians 5:14).  Biblical counseling lovingly focuses on repentance and reconciliation with God regarding heart issues, rather than symptoms, for true restoration.

My counseling degree from Dallas Theological Seminary is a Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling, reflecting that the focus of my education and training in graduate school centered on integrating a Biblical worldview into the counseling profession.

I believe spirituality is a basic part of every person and I love to engage at that level as much as the client feels comfortable.  I pray for my clients and seek wisdom from the Holy Spirit to guide and direct treatment planning, themes of conversations, and specific questions.  It is my hope to help each client that comes through my door to love Jesus more and to rely on Scripture, Biblical theology, the Holy Spirit more and more each day.

For additional resources about Biblical Counseling, check out The Association of Biblical Counseling, The Biblical Counseling Coalition, and The Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation.

The next couple blogs in this series will cover Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Systems Theory.