Author: Malony, H. Newton

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(4), Win 2005, p. p361-367

Abstract: The bases of authority for pastoral counselors and mental health professionals are compared. Pastoral counselors are not licensed by the state which uses a social definition of psychopathology to judge homosexuals as not a danger to self, others, or gravely disabled. Pastoral counselors are ordained by religious bodies who use divine will as a basis for judging homosexual behavior as incompatible with their teachings. While most associations of mental health professionals have expressed great reluctance to approve reparative therapy, the legitimacy of such a theological theory as a basis for counseling in a post-modern world is asserted. The tension experienced by licensed Christians between the recommendations of their associations and their religious convictions is addressed.