Courses

A comparison and analysis of the foundations, theories, scope of practice and applications of Professional MFT vs. pastoral and church-based counseling. Emphasis will be toward an understanding of the differences, complementary aspects, and possible models for mutual referrals and cooperation between these two approaches. Additional residency fee. (3 units; Summer)

An overview of philosophy and theology systems as ancient and contemporary behavioral sciences. Students will understand the application of theology as a counseling application as distinct from an apologetic system. (3 units; Fall)

An examination and explanation of current laws and ethical issues affecting Pastoral Counselors and Church Based Counseling applications. (3 units; Summer)

A general overview of life development following the Biblical Stages from birth through death with emphasis on the relational skills, roles and rituals associated with each stage. (3 units; Spring)

A general understanding of the dynamics of congregational life to personal development and adjustment necessary in maintaining healthy marital, family and personal relationships in community context. Emphasis will be placed on the congregational structure and dynamics necessary for the application of life-to-life and other congregational counseling models. (3 units; Fall)

The course examines the content and approaches to Marriage and Family Ministry within the local congregation. It surveys the approaches presently used by various congregations and compares their respective strengths and weaknesses. It also addresses the present controversy and battle between civil and religious marriage, the emergence of Gender-Neutral marriage, and the implications for religious traditions which do not treat marriage as a sacrament. (3 units; Fall)

A survey of Christian approaches to counseling and relational healing with application to a life-to-life model of counseling in the congregation. Theology as a counseling Theory will also be addressed (3 units; Spring)

A survey of specific programs of Church Based Counseling and their application in a congregational setting. (3 units; Spring)

An examination of the relational skills and settings that establish and maintain an effective counseling relationship in a congregational setting. (2 units; Spring)

This course introduces the student to the general categories and theories of physical illness, mental health and spiritual transgression. The student will become familiar with theories of psychology related to the DSM, related health issues and the Biblical theology of hamartiology. General concerns include the relationship of illness and mental health to righteous behavior and the use of holistic models of the person in addressing repentance, restitution and reconciliation of relationships with self, others, and God. (3 units; Fall)

Students apply counseling ministry theory and practice through a thorough examination of their own congregation as a healing community including the church's ministry philosophy, vision and mission, ministries and organization, leadership, and approach to people helping. (1 units; As offered & Online)

Students apply counseling ministry theory and practice by conducting a comprehensive analysis of three congregations (excluding their own) as healing communities including the church's ministry philosophy, vision and mission, ministries and organization, leadership, and approach to people helping. Prerequisite: CBS 570. (1 unit; As offered & Online)

Students apply counseling ministry theory and practice by creating a plan for establishing a counseling ministry in a local congregation including counseling ministry philosophy and goals, administration, personnel, internal and external resources, and training. Prerequisite: CBS 570. (1 units; As offered)