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Jan 9, 2024
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PRACTICAL BOOK REVIEW ASSIGNMENT
Patrick Scales
PACO 615_B02: Marriage and Family Counseling
August 6, 2023
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Summary
"The New Christian Counselor: A Fresh Biblical and Transformational Approach" is a book that offers a perspective on how religion and counseling can intertwine
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. Its goal is to empower individuals who possess awareness but may struggle with integrating faith into their emotional and psychological healing journey. Written by Ron Hawkins and Tim Clinton, experts
in the field of counseling, this book is filled with valuable insights and real-life experiences. It highlights the importance of pursuing peace and explores how the Christian approach to therapy can address societal challenges. By embracing prayer and following God's teachings, individuals can embark on a counseling experience rooted in love, obedience to commandments, and self-
reflection. The authors advocate for the integration of psychotherapy techniques with guidance from God. They perceive therapists as agents who can help restore the functioning of the mind, like how God has the power to reward or discipline individuals. In bridging these two perspectives, the book draws from both knowledges for well-being and spiritual dimensions for achieving holistic humanity. Ultimately, the authors assert that enduring change originates from inviting the Holy Spirit into one’s life, leading to transformations in overall well-being. The book
provides examples to demonstrate their method highlighting how individuals can actively manage aspects of their lives like thoughts, emotions, choices, physical health, and relationships. It shows the impact of the Holy Spirit in bringing about changes at various levels of one’s life.
Respond
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Hawkins, Ron, and Tim Clinton. The New Christian Counselor: A Fresh Biblical and Transformational Approach.
Harvest House Publishers, 2015, 5.
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The chapter titled "Introduction to a New Day" brought back memories of a time in my life when I faced a moral dilemma whereby I was torn on whether to intervene in my friend's struggle with substance addiction. The book reminded me how crucial it is for counselors to establish ethical guidelines and boundaries in their relationships with clients. The authors establish, “Faith matters and the faith of anyone seeking counseling must be respected and supported by all therapists today.”
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As I grappled with my dilemma, I came to realize the importance of respecting boundaries and honoring my friend’s autonomy. It was crucial for me not to exceed my role as a friend and allow them the freedom to make their decisions. Furthermore, the authors argue that Christian counselors should refrain from imposing values or beliefs on clients while being mindful of power dynamics within counseling relationships. Ultimately, reading this chapter provided me with an understanding of how ethical guidelines and boundaries extend beyond counseling into all aspects of life. Through this approach, the book essentially offered me insight into how to handle my challenging dilemma by stepping back
and allowing my friend the opportunity to willingly approach me to help him cope with this vice.
I gradually understood the significance of seeking advice and assistance from those around us.
Reflection
In their book titled "The New Christian Counselor," the authors skillfully blend the realms of science and religion to offer a discerning approach when counseling individuals facing different challenges. The authors acknowledge the existence of both spiritual and psychological issues as separate entities. However, they put forth the idea that leveraging spiritual aspects can effectively help address any psychological problems that arise, forming the core of their counseling approach. It is worth noting that the author not only functions as a religious preacher 2
Ibid., p. 16
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but also assumes the role of a psychologist who strategically integrates faith-based principles to address their clients’ psychological concerns. However, one potential drawback of this book is the extent to which the authors focus primarily on Christian counseling. While the book acknowledges the significance of sensitivity and diversity in counseling, it predominantly emphasizes Christian and religious perspectives in its counseling approach. The authors state, "The purpose of this book is to embolden and equip those who have a spiritual awareness but lack the knowledge and confidence to declare their position on the role of faith in emotional and psychological healing."
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This limited focus may hinder its applicability for counselors working with clients from different religious and cultural backgrounds. Nevertheless, it is evident that "The New Christian Counselor" serves as a resource for individuals seeking to provide counseling from a Christian standpoint. Although it does have its limitations, this resource offers guidance and insights that can be put into practice in various counseling contexts.
Act
After reading "The New Christian Counselor," I feel motivated to continue my growth journey by seeking wisdom from God and incorporating my faith into understanding my mental health journal. It inspires me to pursue counseling and consciously infuse my faith into my daily life. To put these ideas into action, I could start by dedicating some time every day for prayer and
self-reflection. Moreover, I could explore the option of finding a counselor or joining a support group that aligns with my faith-based perspective on mental health and psychological well-being.
Additionally, I could be more deliberate in seeking resources like books, podcasts, and online platforms that harmonize faith with well-being. Another step worth taking is prioritizing self-
care practices such as exercise, meditation, and spending time outdoors to nurture my spiritual 3
Ibid., p.7
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well-being. Lastly, I can actively seek opportunities to serve others and be an instrument of God’s grace in their lives. Overall, the insights gained from "The New Christian Counselor" encourage me to integrate my faith into my health journey while prioritizing my emotional and spiritual needs. To continue my growth process, I can take tangible actions like making time for prayer and self-reflection, seeking guidance from Christian counselors, and prioritizing activities that promote self-care.
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Bibliography
Hawkins, Ron, and Tim Clinton. The New Christian Counselor: A Fresh Biblical and Transformational Approach.
Harvest House Publishers, 2015.
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