Applying Psychology to Christian Counseling - Book Report/Review Example

Applying Psychology to Christian Counseling: An Integrated Viewpoint December 12, McMinn, Mark. (1996). Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling. New York: Tyndale House Publishers. Abstract The concept of working in the psychological field as a Christian counselor is one which is regarded as different then other forms of psychology. The approach which McMinn takes in understanding the psychology of Christian counseling is based on the integration of studies in different fields to assist individuals in a more holistic manner. The thesis which he creates through this is to provide individuals in need with both psychological counseling as well as guidance through religious belief, all which is based on the needs and analysis of individuals who come asking for assistance over complex issues. McMinn shows how there is a direct relationship between these fields of study and that each can provide a different level of insight to the needs of those that are receiving counseling outside of the traditional needs. The different concepts which McMinn creates are not only based on the basic needs of those coming into Christian counseling for help. The integrative approach which is taken by McMinn also creates a direct relation between different types of counseling that are used traditionally with Christian counselors. Prayer, scripture, sin, confession, redemption and forgiveness are the areas of focus by McMinn. For instance, when speaking of confession, there is the belief to associate with scripture, such as the saying “Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house” (Matt: 5:15). This relates directly to concepts such as cognitive reasoning, which allows one to speak through problems to find solutions and to disassociate with fear. This is an example of how he associates directly with each of these by showing how there is the ability to use Christian counseling as the basis of each of these ideals. The ability to process different concepts in a specific manner can then provide one with more options to heal outside of the normal bounds. The most important point that McMinn points out is that those who are in Christian counseling don’t have to be limited by the theologies that are from traditional types of assistance for individuals. The integration between both studies can assist those who are in need and provide a stronger basis for those who are in need of changing different components of their life. If one is based in the secular field, then applying Christian concepts is one which can support and enhance the practice. At the same time, if one is able to provide support as a Christian counselor, then different methods used in psychology can support and enhance the way in which individuals associate with the assistance which they are receiving. Concrete Responses The guidance which McMinn shows is one which I can relate to my own life through a personal episode which I had with a friend. When going to school, this friend had difficulties within the family which were serious and could lead to psychological difficulties. The friend was unable to go to a counselor at the time, specifically because of the situation which he was in. The complexity of the situation led me to find help through a Christian counselor, specifically because of the different components that were a part of the situation. The counselor advised to use prayer and scripture with the situation while providing different options for the individual to receive assistance. Since my friend was not from the same denomination in which I was, this was combined with my understanding of counseling, specifically by providing basic options for allowing him to speak through the problems and to ask for assistance in the way which was most conducive to his needs. Through time, there were distinct differences with my friend, specifically because he was able to talk through the problems and make choices based on the situation in which he was in with his family. I noticed that his ability to apply his own methods of both psychological and Christian responses created different perspectives and allowed him to respond in a different way. The result was improvement over the situation and the ability to move forward with what was needed in the situation. Reflection When reading this book, there are specific questions that arise about the main purpose of the author. The strengths that are noted in the book come from the direct associations with the Bible as well as psychology to show how each integrate with the other for a specific reaction. The personal accounts of how effective this can be also provides a different approach to counseling that can be taken. The main point shows an improvement from past types of traditional psychology and Christian counseling, both which are based on the understanding of how this associates directly with the need to offer a more integrated and holistic approach for more conducive results among those who are seeking counseling. The viewpoint which the author displays is believable through his associations and shows a debate which can easily be applied. While there are several direct relations that are associated with both fields, there are also questions of how this can work both with individuals as well as those who are interested in offering counseling. The need to have more practical applications, instead of theoretical implications, would help to strengthen the argument. There is also the need to create a direct association with the different ways in which individuals may respond, as opposed to the viewpoint that there is always a positive reaction which occurs among those who are receiving psychological assistance. By creating a personal theme from the author’s point of view that using this type of counseling is the most effective, are also questions relating to understanding why, how and what the practical mechanics are for this. Action To further understand the different associations which the author has made in terms of psychology and Christianity, there will first be the need to conduct research about what the author believes and why. For instance, applying Bible verses to different types of psychological beliefs will be a step that can be taken to understand the concepts that are associated with the idea of Christianity. This can be furthered by approaching the counseling studies with a new and direct response. However, because of the questions related to the mechanics, practical applications and association with psychology, there will be further researched which will be examined and which will be based on the applications to counseling. With my own personal recounts and conversations, there will also be an association of how to analyze conversations and problems by using both psychology and Christian concepts for a more thorough understanding of what individuals need. The combination of research, observation and analysis will be the primary objectives in applying the beliefs of this author. The investigation will lead to different ways in which practical applications can be applied to those who are seeking help and which are looking for Christian counseling. References Matthew. The Bible. King James Version, 2000. McMinn, Mark. (1996). Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling. 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