Journal Review

Use of Prayer and Scripture in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Angela Bailey

Liberty University

Use of Prayer And Scripture In Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Summary

In his journal, Use Of Prayer And Scripture In Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Tan r(2007) explores the ethical and appropriate use of Scripture and prayer, core components of religious-CBT when employing a Christian-based CBT. Apparently, the effectiveness of Tan’s approach spans 25 years of his practice, as well as, its application in a variety of settings including in Bible college counseling, pastoral care, hospital setting and other contexts of counseling.

Tan (2007) highlights eight key components of an ethical and appropriate Christian-based CBT focusing on Scriptures and prayers. These include the agape love in client-counselor apprelationship, the judicious healing of memories, use of research methodologies to make definitive conclusions regarding CBT superiority and use of bible-corresponding techniques. This also goes for considering Scriptures revelations in the meaning of experiential, mystical and spiritual aspects of faith and life, assessing how behavior and thought influence the underlying problem using biblical truth and creating scripture-based interventions. In addition, the author highlights that focus should also be on larger contextual factors, such as cultural influences, and use of relevant community resource such as churches in therapeutic interventions.

Tan (2007) goes ahead to discuss two models of integrating Christian-based CBT, explicit integration or the overt use of Scriptures and prayers or the implicit integration or the covert use of Scriptures and prayers. Whichever approach taken, there should be intentional integration and consideration of client’s needs. Tan explains the use of explicit integration in his CBT approach, citing its suitability for clients wanting the approach and dealing with a variety of problems ranging from emotional disorders to marital...