Mcminn Summary

According to McMinn (1996), Scripture reading and prayer are encouraged during the therapeutic session. However, research has shown that few Christian counselors use scriptures and prayer when they are counseling clients. McMinn (1996) concluded that Christian counselor’s use of prayer and scriptures is determining by the “ theoretical orientation of the counselor and the diagnosis of the client” (p.67). McMinn (1996) suggests the client should use scriptures during mediation to help the client change faulty beliefs. Scriptural meditation is also useful in creating a personal and intimate relationship with God. Additionally, learning scriptures increases spirituality and it draws the individual closer to the healing power of God. Scriptures
can be used as a specific intervention during the therapeutic counseling session. When assessing the need to introduce scriptures into the counseling session, the Christian counselor should determine the need for the use of scriptures, and the effect the use will have on the client.
There are problems that can arise when incorporating prayer into the counseling session.
Counselors are concerned with charging a fee for the service, and what form of prayer to use Prayer can also pose a problem when the counselor has to provide techniques and models of therapy to insurance companies. According to McMinn (1996), prayer is not a science and has not been researched to establish its effectiveness. The use of prayer can also be seen as coercion by the counselor, therefore, causing ethical concerns (McMinn, 1996).
Since prayer is viewed as fellowship and seeking God, it is spiritual, and a personal experience. Prayer can be incorporated as, mediation, homework, or included during the therapeutic session. The use of prayer during the therapeutic session should also be determined by the need and the effect it would have on the client. The use of prayer will increase the outlook of the participant and is beneficial for their physical and emotional healing.
There are times of silence that the counselor can use prayer during the session, including intercessory pray that benefit all their clients. In addition, the counselor can teach the client to pray. The counselor should be led by the Holy Spirit seeking guidance and direction when to use prayer during the therapeutic process. Prayer should be used knowing that all healing comes from God. (Lecture,
n.d.). I believe that the use of prayer and scripture is extremely beneficial to the Christian counselor and to their clients. However, not everyone is on the same level in their spirituality and it could be intimidating to a client. The readings suggest that there are ethical problems that could arise for Christian counselor who chose to integrate scriptures and prayer into the therapeutic process. If such problems arise, praying for my clients during my private devotion with the Lord is just as effective. In addition, I believe that by meditating on scriptures and praying for my own personal walk with the Lord will help me in my spiritual discernment for the needs of my clients. Prayer and scripture reading will also deepen my personal and spiritual relationship with the Lord, thereby keeping me grounded, and humbled. Relying on the God, knowing He is in control of me and the clients that I serve.Jesus declared in Luke 22:32, " but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not; and when thou art converted strengthen thy brethren." God bless!!
References
McMinn, M. R. (196) Psychology theology, and spirituality in Christian counseling, Tyndale House.
Presentation: A definition of prayer, (n.d.) [Lecture]. Liberty University