Counseling Theory Paper
Counseling Theory
Julie Meyers
Liberty University
Abstract
This theory focuses on the integration of Biblical principles by combining several aspects of major theories to provide the best treatment for clients. This theory also discusses the nature and need of man as well as the most important factors in determining the health and/or dysfunction of man. This theory provides a detailed process of intervention based on several major theories, while using Scripture as a basis for each method. Overall, this theory focuses on the importance of the client’s role in therapy. Ultimately, through the combined theories and integration of Scripture, it is up to the client to apply these methods. As a result of that application, with guidance from the therapist, and a desire for a God’s wisdom, change and health can be achieved for the client.
Keywords: counseling, theory, integration, religion, spirituality, behavior, rational, emotive, cognitive, existential, Bible, Scripture, God
Philosophical Assumptions and Key Concepts
In an article discussing the importance of integrating religion in counseling it was stated that, “Richards and Bergin (1997) also noted a recent growth in interest in spiritual and religious issues in the United States, as evidenced by increased coverage of these topics in leading newspapers, magazines, books, and television specials. Likewise, in the fields of counseling and psychology, there has been a growing awareness about the importance of incorporating spirituality and religion into psychotherapy. For example, in the code of ethics, the American Psychological Association (APA, 1992) recognized religion as a component of human diversity” (Wolf, 2001). Therefore, as the importance of this integration grows, it is increasingly necessary for a therapist, especially one claiming to be a Christian, to develop their own theory of counseling. Therefore, this theory focuses highly on rationality, the ability to control ones thoughts, and the importance
Julie Meyers
Liberty University
Abstract
This theory focuses on the integration of Biblical principles by combining several aspects of major theories to provide the best treatment for clients. This theory also discusses the nature and need of man as well as the most important factors in determining the health and/or dysfunction of man. This theory provides a detailed process of intervention based on several major theories, while using Scripture as a basis for each method. Overall, this theory focuses on the importance of the client’s role in therapy. Ultimately, through the combined theories and integration of Scripture, it is up to the client to apply these methods. As a result of that application, with guidance from the therapist, and a desire for a God’s wisdom, change and health can be achieved for the client.
Keywords: counseling, theory, integration, religion, spirituality, behavior, rational, emotive, cognitive, existential, Bible, Scripture, God
Philosophical Assumptions and Key Concepts
In an article discussing the importance of integrating religion in counseling it was stated that, “Richards and Bergin (1997) also noted a recent growth in interest in spiritual and religious issues in the United States, as evidenced by increased coverage of these topics in leading newspapers, magazines, books, and television specials. Likewise, in the fields of counseling and psychology, there has been a growing awareness about the importance of incorporating spirituality and religion into psychotherapy. For example, in the code of ethics, the American Psychological Association (APA, 1992) recognized religion as a component of human diversity” (Wolf, 2001). Therefore, as the importance of this integration grows, it is increasingly necessary for a therapist, especially one claiming to be a Christian, to develop their own theory of counseling. Therefore, this theory focuses highly on rationality, the ability to control ones thoughts, and the importance
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