Pastoral Counseling: Foundations and Practices (CO121) will equip you to face a diverse array of problems in your pastoral counseling practice. In the course, licensed clinical psychologist and ordained minister Dr. C. Gary Barnes introduces theological anchor points for pastoral counseling as well as the identity and role of the pastoral counselor in the counseling process. You will also study the interdisciplinary integration of theology and psychology and the intradisciplinary integration of theology and psychology with pastoral counseling. Alongside these, you will gain a thorough understanding of Christian personality theory so you can approach people holistically in your practice.
After laying a foundation for the course, Dr. Barnes walks you through a variety of strategies to initiate change in the individual, couple, family, and group dynamics, and he corrects some common myths regarding issues facing pastoral counselors.
