Mcminn Book Review

 Practical Book Review

Psychology, theology, and spirituality in Christian Counseling

By

Donna Stefanick

Student ID: L25837755

Integration of Psychology and Theology

COUN 506

Liberty University Online

Lynchburg, VA

PRACTICAL BOOK REVIEW TWO: McMinn - Psychology, theology, and spirituality in Christian Counseling

Summary

Effective Christian counseling occurs when psychology and theology can be integrated. In the book Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling, McMinn (2011) stresses the importance of the counselor’s role in the process of integrating spirituality, theology, and psychology.  The counselor, as the professional, needs to have insight into their own development and ability to integrate the three disciplines into their sessions. McMinn (2011) outlines the impact that a Christian counselor has as they assist their clients with the process of healing through counseling. McMinn (2011) suggests that in order to be effective as a counselor, one must acknowledge that the counseling process can be intensely personal and reflects the spiritual life, educational background and personal experiences of the counselor.

McMinn (2011) stresses the importance of appropriately using the bible, prayer, and scripture in a counseling session. McMinn (2011) gives practical advice on how to evaluate where the client is before integrating biblical supports. The author explains the crucial role that a healthy and positive foundation of Christian beliefs plays in overcoming life challenges (McMinn, 2011, pg. 47). One way to develop a healthy Christian foundation is through the use of prayer. Prayer allows individuals to build a relationship with God. The use of scripture in counseling can also help develop a relationship with God. McMinn (2011) suggests that the use of scripture provides the client with a “self-help” book (pg. 121) that can be searched for answers that are found in scripture.

The author then...