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A Personal Integrated Biblical Approach to Counseling: Targeting Change

Brian P. Ahlquist

PTP Abstract This personal model of counseling addresses the complexity of personality through a simple approach targeting positive change. Although Biblically centered, it discusses the importance of integrating both theology and psychology. The depth of influence on personality is explored as well as personal motivation and sustainability. Health and illness are defined followed by a description of the counseling process, as well as the techniques and indications of success. The paper concludes by addressing practicality among Christian and non-Christian worldviews followed by the authors final thoughts.

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Abstract2 Introduction..4 Personality Structure5 Development of Personality.5 Concentric circles of personality.5 The inner circles...6 The outer circles...7 Motivation8 Individual differences..9 Health and Illness...10 The Win and the Counseling Process12 Techniques.13 Indications of success14 Theory Application to Biblical and Larger Worldview.14 Conclusion.15 Reference...16

PTP A PERSONAL INTEGRATED BIBLICAL APPROACH TO COUNSELING: TARGETING CHANGE There is a vantage point gained through the integration of psychology and theology. It seems that the ultimate why questions in life are best answered through the theological and spiritual perspectives. While the data that psychology has to offer has significant value in helping us answer the what, when, where, and how questions about life (Clinton & Ohlschlager, 2002, p.157). In our attempts to understand the whole person, it seems reasonable to explore the persons mind, body, soul, the temporal systems, and the supernatural systems which influence the person. Contributions from

both psychology and theology offer a more complete plan of care. McMinn (1996) states, the best interdisciplinary integration work usually comes from those who have formal or informal preparation in both psychology and theology (p.9). Wisdom and faith encourage a focus on an integration that brings truth from both areas to combine and apply. Philippians 4:8-9 states, Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things (New International Version). The course of this paper will ponder such things as the counseling theory is discussed. Before moving forward, the issue of prioritizing theology or psychology must be addressed. Crabb (1977) stresses psychology must come under the authority of Scripture (p.49). The danger in this view resides in putting our faith in a persons interpretation of scripture rather then scripture itself. Although one may view Scripture as inerrant, people are not. The biases of the person must be considered. For example, Johnson and VanVonderen (1991) warn that legalistic Christians will always want to see

PTP another punished, or made to perform as a compensation for weakness or sin (p.97). There may be a way to guard against this kind of issue. Perhaps when faced with a possible contradiction, it would be better to re-examine the bases of both our theology

and our psychological conclusions (Entwistle, 2004, p.257). This offers better protection from misunderstanding, self-deceit, and abuse. PERSONALITY STRUCTURE Development of Personality Personality is complex. A person not only changes physically as he or she grows, they also change in personality. Systems theory is a generic term for conceptualizing a group of related elements that interact as a whole entity (Gladding, 2007, p.224). This approach validates the complexity of influences leading to personality changes, good or bad. Hawkins (n.d.) emphasizes the importance of multitasking considering insights from psychology, theology, spirituality, and other forces shaping a person. For the counselor, multitasking is the application of systems theory through an attentive assessment of the forces shaping a clients personality. Understanding that the whole is greater then the sum of its parts allows the counselor to intervene to create positive change (Arredondo et al., 2009, p.136). Concentric circles of personality Multitasking is essential in counseling. McMinn (1996) believes the most effective Christian counselors are able to process several ideas simultaneously (269). The concept of using concentric circles is an important tool. It allows the counselor to view the whole as well as individual parts. Each circle lies within another influencing and

PTP affecting the system as a whole. We will begin by examining the inner circles of personality.

The inner circles. In Matthew 22:37, Jesus said Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind (New International Version). The roles of the heart, soul, and mind overlap in Scripture. For practicality, we will assign a definitive although ad hoc meaning for the use of each word with the goal of understanding personality more thoroughly. In this theory there are four parts to the inner circle. First is the heart. Scripture teaches people speak and act from the heart (Matthew 15:18-19), that the heart feels (Psalm 105:25), and the heart thinks (Acts 11:23). Vine's Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words (1985) states, The heart is that which is central to man ( 1). The heart is the center of the total personality. It is where our true character of good or evil abides and motivates. It is where our deep passions and emotions are seeded. Adams (1986) agrees sharing, substantial change requires the Holy Spirits alteration of the heart (ones inner life known only to God and oneself) (p. xii). Without Gods regenerating grace, the heart is deceitful and full of sin (Jeremiah 17:9). Next is the soul which is the eternal part of us. Also referred to as the spirit, or pneuma, it is Gods breath of life placed within us. The soul is that which distinguishes one man from another (The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, 6). It is where God invents our individuality creating unique gifts, talents, and abilities. The soul has the Makers stamp on it; we are made in His image. We long to belong in community because God exists in community. Wilson (2001) captures this by stating, People just

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dont have relationships; they are relational (p.77). Belonging and community is part our souls DNA. The third part of the inner circle is the mind. It is the home of understanding, thought, and reason. It holds conscious thinking where we can talk to ourselves in sentences (Crabb, 1977, p.88). It is here one evaluates and makes choices. Anderson (1990) believes the mind is the central target in spiritual warfare stressing that if Satan can control your thoughts, he can control your life (p.61). Backus and Chapian (2000) emphasize cognitively applying personal choice in belief as the controller of your happiness and your unhappiness (p.21). Crabb believes much of our spiritual and sinful influences hide out in our unconscious mind. Wilson (2001) may agree believing that we adopt defensive, self-protective thinking and behavior patterns when we are emotionally or relationally threatened (p.12). The subconscious mind plays a role in expressing our deep seeded beliefs and emotions through the choices we make on a more conscious level. Perhaps it can be seen as the place where our mind, heart, and soul come together. The final part, the body, serves as the holding tank for the heart, mind, and soul. Aging and dying, our body and its physiology remains affected by the fall. Hart (1999) reminds us that stress affects us physically. Since our brain is biological, how we treat it will affect our emotions and other forms of cognition. Understanding the role of physical health on psychological health is foundational in counseling. For example, if a therapist is treating a diabetic client for depression it would be wise to ensure the clients blood sugar is controlled. A high or low count may affect mood, energy, and cognition. The outer circles. There are two primary parts to the outer circles in this theory. First are temporal systems. According to Hawkins (n.d.) these are earthly systems that

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affect our worldview. They may include family, friends, church, government, society, the economy, and education. The family is probably the greatest example of a temporal system. The family can be a place where hope, love, encouragement, and protection is found. On the other hand, Wilson (2001) reminds us our deepest wounds come at the hand of those we love and trust (p.10). The family can also be a place of wounding. The second outer circle involves supernatural systems. This system includes God, angels, Satan, and demons. Scripture reminds us there is spiritual war influencing this world (Ephesians 6). Forces of darkness come to steal, kill, and destroy yet Jesus comes to bring hope and life (John 101:10). Angels come to minister (Hebrews 1:14) to Christians who are called to make disciples with the authority of Jesus Himself (Matthew 28:18-19). Although the exact details of the metaphysical realm are kept from us in Scripture, Anderson (1990) reminds us that Christians ought to practice the authority given to them by Christ. Jesus said, If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed (John 8:36, New International Version). This is just one of the many important truths to remind clients of regarding this system. Motivation In this theory of counseling, there are three elements to consider regarding motivation: meeting needs, satisfaction, and sustainability. First, people are pro their own lives. When a crisis hits or a need arises, a person will act to meet his or her own needs. Psychoanalyst Erik Erikson captures this idea in his eight stages of development. In Eriksons theory each stage represents a crisis or conflict that the individual must resolve (Feldman, 2008, p.17). If the stage is not resolved in a healthy manner the person suffers negatively. These stages continue into late adulthood emphasizing that

PTP challenges and needs do not end. This leads to the second consideration in this model, satisfaction. Can someone ultimately be satisfied? When a need arises, the desire to fix it follows. Yet, fixing eventually leads to what Crabb (1977) calls a vague sense of

emptiness (p.125). When people fix problems or achieve goals to the best of their ability they are brought face to face with the horrible fact that dreams come true have not really satisfied (Crabb, p.124). Even if a person is able to deal with crisis effectively there is always another. This leads to the last piece of motivation, sustainability. Since needs will not cease and satisfaction is never fully achieved, one wonders how long a person can sustain this kind of effort. Fear of loss or failure may motivate for awhile but emotional, physical, or spiritual exhaustion is likely to come. When it does, the person may be motivated to finally choose God. Cloud and Townsend (1999) wrote their own law of motivation which states we must be free to say no before we can wholeheartedly say yes (p.49). Being our own center and sustaining who we are without Gods help is exhausting. Perhaps this is why Jesus said, Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28, New International Version). Greg Boyd states, As long as we thrust ourselves into the center, we will be forced to seek life from idols, judging good and evil, and being cut off from [God] (Boyd, 2004, p.72). God must be restored to the center of our lives if we are to live and experience life to the full. When a person says yes to Christ wholeheartedly he or she begins to experience a new reality participating in Gods divine nature (Romans 6:3-10, 2 Peter 1:4). Christ becomes the persons motivation and inspiration. Individual differences

PTP Diversity in individual personality stems from several areas. Feldman (2008)

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defines personality as the sum total of the enduring characteristics that differentiate one individual from another (p.728). As previously discussed, the systems surrounding an individual influence the persons core and ultimately forms these enduring characteristics. For example, our body may genetically predispose us to an energetic disposition or a subdued one. Hart (1999) makes it clear our society, as a temporal system, drives us at supersonic speed creating stress and predisposing us to anxiety. All of these systems uniquely effect how people view their core concept or their set of beliefs about what they are like as individuals (Feldman, 2008, p.253). Backus and Chapian (2000) discuss how the mind alone, and the beliefs within it, can effect depression, anger, anxiety, self-control, fear, and other feelings and responses. The Holy Spirit also effects personality by restoring and strengthening our souls (Psalm 23) and giving Christ-followers the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16). Given the diversity of systems influencing personality, this model highly encourages the use of a tool to capture key aspects of personality to better assist during counsel. An example of such a tool is SCOPE personality scale sometimes called the Big Five personality model or Five Factor model. Basically, this model encompasses five broad factors (social, change, organization, pleasing, and emotionally steady) that account for most of the variance in personality measures (Canger & Smith, 2004, p.468). Having a basic snapshot may help narrow down the vast array of systems affecting individual personality as well as helping to focus care.

PTP HEALTH AND ILLNESS Health has many components including but not limited to the biological, psychological, relational, and spiritual pieces. Simultaneously maintaining near perfect health is rather impossible to achieve and difficult to measure. Overall health is

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something that is acquired and lost while journeying through life. It takes a great amount of effort and self discipline to monitor this journey. Even a simple attempt in doing so would expose the multiple forces at play affecting ones health. Yet, ones inner desire to meet unmet needs or to resolve crisis motivates one on a journey toward wellness. According to this counseling model, health is maintaining forward motion toward positive personal change. Wilson (2001) shares how this process can be very messy in appearance but as long were shuffling or stumbling in a new, healthier, more truthful direction, were making positive progress (p.233). McMinn (1996) captures this movement forward through a triad involving an accurate sense of self, healing relationships, and an accurate awareness of need. A person moving forward will grow past self-preoccupation, admit he or she has needs, and understand the importance of relationships. For the model being presented in this paper the pinnacle of personal change is Christ-likeness which provides the clearest sense of direction as one fixs his or her eyes on Christ (Hebrews 12:2). Illness, according to this model, is the cessation of positive forward motion. A person can no longer maintain or develop coping strategies while facing the challenge, stressor, crisis, or unmet need. Systems play a very real role in health. Dr. Hawkins (n.d.) reminds us that we are not islands unto ourselves. We are constantly swimming in a sea of influences (week one, step five). When a wall presents itself, creating a need or crisis,

PTP it may come from a variety sources. Backus and Chapian (2000) stress how people

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cognitively misbelieve or hold wrong thinking causing wrong emotions and actions. For example, believing one fails at everything will impede success at work or in relationships. Hart (1999) stresses much of anxiety is biologically based but also validates worry as a learned behavior that goes back to the earliest part of life (p. v.). Although thoughts of failing an exam may trigger anxiety, the anxiety itself may have been behaviorally learned by anxious parents or caused by biochemical imbalance in the brain. Choice, or volition, also plays a role. If a person chooses to engage in sinful activities such as adultery, stealing, or murder a wall is introduced as the person further separates themselves from God and others. According to Adams (1986) this sin-based wall can only be removed through repentance which not only involves changing ones thinking, attitudes, and beliefs but involves regret about sin and issues in a change of lifestyle (p.144). THE WIN AND THE COUNSELING PROCESS The win in baseball is to achieve the most runs. The win is this theory is to maintain forward motion toward positive personal change. Anything functioning as a wall or obstruction to forward motion is identified and removed. Healing, truth, and choice work together removing the wall in order to continue on the journey. In this model, healing addresses any physical or spiritual issues causing the person to think unclearly. As stated earlier, there are biological causes which impede cognition. While addressing underlying causes of anxiety, Anderson (1999) encourages to always have a thorough medical examination to rule out medical causes of their distressing symptoms (p.73). In some cases, this alone may remove the obstruction such

PTP as being diagnosed with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), a fast heart

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rate that is often indistinguishable from the rapid heartbeat of panic (Hart, 1999, p.59). If spiritual involvement is suspected taking authority over the demonic realm may be indicated but should be addressed wisely and through much prayer (Mark 9:28-29). Discovering truth is an essential piece to this process. Wilson (2001) states, calling a thing by its correct name is the beginning of change (p.97). A willingness to search for truth is a willingness to not blame others if personal sin, mistakes, or unwise choices are the cause. Truth also explores the hurts caused by other people or events. Regardless of the source, a choice must be made. In this theory, choice is the decision to separate lies from truth, make a personal commitment toward change, and put it into action. Techniques This theory is basically a cognitive-behavioral approach to care believing that how people think largely determines how they feel and behave (Gladding, 2007, p.218). There are many general techniques which help clients engage in counseling such as offering a comforting setting in an office, asking open ended questions, and modeling good listening. Self-disclosure, humor, empathy, and confrontation are other effective techniques in connecting with clients. In this approach Gladding (2007) emphasizes two primary techniques: teaching and disputing. Teaching involves helping the client understand how thoughts are linked with emotions and behaviors (Gladding, 2007, p.220). Disputing challenges the client to practice reasoning, imagination, and new behaviors. Backus and Chapians (2000) misbelief therapy is an example of cognitive disputing where misbeliefs are located, removed, and replaced with truth.

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Effectiveness in this approach is limited to individuals who do not have mental problems or thought disorders. Cognition must be healthy enough to process thinking patterns and make sound decisions. As Hart (1999) reminds us, changing thinking does not always cure emotions. Biological causes may indicate the need for medication. Since this approach can be direct there is also the potential for the counselor being overzealous and not therapeutic (Gladding, 2007, p.221). Moving the client toward positive change involves applying multiple techniques in communication, connection, and understanding. Effectiveness may decrease when a counselor limits him or herself to just one technique such as Jay Adams (1986) confrontational approach. Indications of success Effectiveness in this approach manifests itself by overcoming barriers in order to continue on the journey toward positive change. The apex of this journey would be the client recognizing his or her need for Christ and a commitment to seek Him first and foremost. In McMinns (1996) triad, which includes sense of self, sense of need, and healing relationships, the three pieces interact and contribute to one another to create a positive change. Although success can be recognized in a variety of ways, this theory validates positive change taking place when the client reports an improved sense of wellbeing, symptom relief, and improved overall life functioning. Theory Application to Biblical and Larger Worldview Throughout the paper this theory has demonstrated a foundational Biblical worldview in a number of ways. The integration of Biblical theology and psychology has been encouraged. In describing the systems effecting personality, God, spiritual warfare, the soul, and spiritual realm were addressed. Supportive Scripture has been used

PTP throughout and deep transformation through Jesus Christ has been emphasized as the pinnacle of positive change.

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This theory is also applicable to a larger worldview in three ways. First, although Christ-based it does not exclude helping the non-Christian. It encourages it. A Christian counselor who gains the trust of a non-Christian client may later have an opportunity to share the importance of knowing Christ. Jesus Himself demonstrates this in John 9. Secondly, although it recognizes the complexity of influences upon ones life, it remains simple in concept; healing, truth, and choice lead to change. Lastly, the systems described as influencing personality are universal. Christian and non-Christian alike can appreciate and accept its dynamic aspects using it as a source of explanation, exploration, and discussion. CONCLUSION This personal theory comes with a strong basis. First it is the integration of psychology and theology which provides a strong foundation for discovering truth in client care. Next, choosing to multitask develops a more comprehensive view of both personality and issues. Lastly, Christ-centered counselors equipped with this simple approach can help a client target positive change. While moving along the clients journey, the issue of sustainability can address the clients awareness and relationship with the true source of life, Jesus Christ. Although positive changes can benefit overall life, Christ changes the heart, makes it new, and works with us to target an eternal change which ultimately transforms us more and more into His image.

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References Adams, J. E. (1986). How to help people change: The four-step Biblical process. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House. Anderson, N. T. (1990). The bondage breaker: Overcoming negative thoughts, irrational feelings, and habitual sins. Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers. Arredondo, R., Kimball, T. G., Korinek, A. W., & Shumway, S. T. (2007). A family systems-based model of organizational intervention. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 33(2), 134-148. Backus, W. & Chapian, M. (2000). Telling yourself the truth. Bloomington, MN: Bethany House Publishers. Biblesoft (1996). International Standard Bible Encyclopaedia, Electronic Database [Computer software] Seattle, WA: Biblesoft. Boyd, G. A. (2004). Repenting of religion: Turning from judgment to the love of God. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books. Canger J. M. & Smith M. A. (2004). Effects of big five personality on subordinate attitudes. Journal of Business and Psychology, 18(4), 465-481. Clinton, T., & Ohlschlager, G. (2002). Competent Christian Counseling: Foundations and practice of compassionate soul care (Vol. 1). Colorado Springs, Colorado: WaterBrook Press

PTP Cloud, H. & Townsend, J. (1999). Boundaries in marriage. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. Crabb, L. (1977). Effective biblical counseling: A model for helping caring Christians become capable counselors. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. Entwistle, D. N. (2004). Integrative approaches to psychology and Christianity: An introduction to worldview issues, philosophical foundations, and models of integration. Eugene, OR: Wipf and Stock Publishers.

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Feldman, R. S.(Eds). (2008). Development across the life span. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. Gladding, S., T. (2007). Counseling: A comprehensive profession (5th ed.). Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Education, Inc. Hart, A. D. (1999). The anxiety cure. Nashville: Thomas Nelson. Hawkins, R. E. (n.d.). How do we self examine? Step 5 think systematically. Liberty University. Hawkins, R. E. (n.d.). Week one, lecture one. Liberty University. Johnson, D. & VanVonderen, J. (1991). The subtle power of spiritual abuse: Recognizing and escaping spiritual manipulation and false spiritual authority within the Church. Minneapolis, MN: Bethany House Publishers. McMinn, M. R. (1996). Psychology, theology, and spirituality in Christian counseling. Carol Steam, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Thomas Nelson Publishers (1986). Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary [Computer software]. Seattle, WA: Biblesoft.

PTP Wilson, S.D. (2001). Hurt people hurt people: Hope and healing for yourself and your relationships. Grand Rapids, MI: Discovery House Publishers.

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GRADING GUIDELINE FOR PERSONAL THEORY PAPER COUN 507/PACO 600 Theology and Spirituality in Counseling The following represents an additive template for grading. Instead of beginning with 100 and losing points for errors, you begin with a 0 and earn points for your work In determining your grade, three questions will be asked. QUESTION VALUES TOTAL 100 POINTS HOW DID IT RUN THE COURSE? Question Value: 35 Points Submitted with correct cover sheet and/or title page followed by an Abstract, Table of Contents, with Grading Guideline for Personal Theory Paper correctly attached? Score: 5 points Evidence of proof reading? Score: 15 points (Minimal typographical, grammatical, punctuation errors, no unnecessary pages, paragraphing/sentence structure is proper and without awkwardness, body length is not more than 12 pages) Followed current APA Guidelines (headers, margins, spacing, numbering, font, referencing titles correctly with initials, italics, and appropriate use of lower case letters, etc.)? Score: 15 points

HOW DID IT HANDLE THE SOURCE(S)? Question Value: 25 Points Citations are properly referenced? (A minimum of 15 appropriate citations) Score: 15 points Reference list? (A minimum of 10 sources must be referenced: at least 6 must come from the required reading; the Bible counts as 1; instructor counts as 1; 2 from recommended reading, journals, or online documents) Score: 10 points

DOES THE WRITING HAVE FORCE? Question Value: 40 Points Content clearly follows the structured outline found in the

PTP Table of Contents with clarity and coherency?

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Score: 5 points Score: 20 Points Score: 10 points Score: 5 points

Adequately addressed the elements of a comprehensive theory

Clear, insightful, rich interaction with subject matter?

and the elements shaping personality and influencing its health

Conclusion reveals thoughtful summarization and application? Grade: