HSCO 506. DB 3 Guidelines for p and S in CC copy
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Liberty University *
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506
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Religion
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Apr 3, 2024
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docx
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DB #3 Guidelines for Using Prayer & Scripture in Counseling
The case study of Danielle, a foster care child in middle school, is presented to a therapist at a Christian social services agency. Upon reading the case scenario of Danielle, I was saddened by her traumatic story as well as slightly triggered by her story. Although I was not necessarily in the foster care system, I can personally relate to her story. One thing that I could relate to is my own experience of spiritual abuse. Danielle’s story was different from mine in that her experience of abuse was by her foster mom who would use scripture verses to justify the abuse. I
had a similar experience however, mine occurred within the church. This experience led me into a painful season of questioning God which distanced me from the church as well as my personal walk with Christ. Fortunately, we serve a merciful God who is full grace, compassion, and an everlasting love. In Hebrews 5:13, “For He Himself has said, I will never leave you nor forsake you” (The Holy Bible, NKJV, 2004).
The reading material/lectures expressed the importance of using caution when implementing prayer and scripture into counseling. McMinn (2011) suggests some guidelines that may aid in the decision to apply prayer & scripture into counseling sessions by asking three questions; Will this help establish a healthy sense of self, a healthy sense of need, and help to establish a healing relationship? These questions are imperative for a healthy outcome. Brewer and Peters (n.d.), share that having knowledge of the client’s position prior to the first counseling session helps the
counselor to be mindful of the appropriate and ethical implementation of prayer and scripture. McMinn (2011) suggests some other guiding principles that could be applied in Danielle’s case such as; actively listening to her, praying silently while in session, praying outside of the session,
being silent & allow her to talk, being conscious to not overuse different spiritual practices, and to offer an alternative way of help for her if the fit is not right for either Danielle or the counselor.
As Danielle’s counselor, I would assure that I created a warm, inviting, and non-threatening environment for our counseling sessions. My priority would be to create a safe space so that we can build on a foundation of trust. I would be in constant prayer, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide me. I would be sensitive to Danielle’s unfortunate abuse that equates scripture with abuse. While she settles into this new environment, I would silently pray and be aware of her body language and actively listen to all that she shares only compassionately responding when it felt like the right time. As we move forward in our relationship, I would encourage her to meditate, try some breathing exercises, and suggest some imagery healing (McMinn, 2011).
Due to Danielle’s spiritually abusive relationship with her foster mother, I would be mindful to slowly introduce prayer and scripture into our sessions (Brewer & Peters, n.d.). McMinn (2011) suggests that counselors start small before confronting any behavior or belief system that the client shares & the author introduces the concept of empathetic confrontation which I think would be the best for Danielle. The author shares that this enables counselors to see how the client handles confrontation before continuing. In the lectures, we were cautioned not to use any
techniques or methods that could be inappropriate, until we better understand their personal spiritual development (Brewer & Peters, n.d.). In Danielle’s case I would be conscious to not speak too much about religion given her past experiences. McMinn (2011) suggests that there are several ways to introduce prayer and scripture in the therapy sessions that could aid in introducing the truth in scriptures which could help break her negative beliefs of scripture (McMinn, 2011). As Danielle’s therapist, I would start out by praying silently for her in sessions and seeking Holy Spirit in outside prayer for guidance on how to help her in her pain, confusion, and brokenness (McMinn, 2011). I would also be conscious and prayerful to not become too overbearing by pushing my own spiritual beliefs on Danielle (Brewer & Peter’s, n.d.). McMinn (2011) shared some healing therapeutic practices that Danielle could practice outside of therapy such as; meditation, simple scripture memorization, breathing exercises, and imagery.
If I had to see Danielle in a public service setting, the first thing that I would do is find out their standard policies and code of ethics. If I were not allowed to share my Christian views and beliefs in our sessions, I would still practice silently praying for her as well as praying for her outside of the sessions. If appropriate, I would share techniques that could help her and give her outside assignments to rebuild her faulty belief system and learn the truth through specific scriptures. I would incorporate some simple exercises that would help her to connect he mind, body, and soul with the will and the truth of God so that she can begin to learn the truth of God’s
love for her and begin to heal.
References
Brewer, G., & Peters, C. (2023d, Fall). HSCO 506 Week 5, Lecture 1: The Bible in
Christian counseling.
[PowerPoint]. Liberty University.
Brewer, G., & Peters, C. (2023d, Fall). HSCO 506 Week 6, Lecture 1: Prayer and Christian counseling.
[PowerPoint]. Liberty University.
Brewer, G., & Peters, C. (2023d, Fall). HSCO 506 Week 6, Lecture 2: Prayer for psychological and spiritual health. [PowerPoint]. Liberty University.
McMinn, M.R. (2011). Psychology, theology, and spirituality in Christian counseling.
(Rev. ed.). Carol Stream, IL: Tyndall House Publishing, Inc.
The Holy Bible. New King James Version, (2004). Thomas Nelson.
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