Author: Abi-Hashem, Naji

Journal of Psychology and Christianity, Vol. 25(3), Fall 2006, pp. 251-257

I remember vividly receiving a phone call from M’s husband, asking whether I was experienced enough to work with obsessive-compulsive people or whether I specialize in this type of treatment. “My wife saw a local family therapist for a while but later he decided he couldn’t help her. Then we found a local psychologist who wanted to use hypnosis on her. My wife didn’t feel comfortable with that approach. Besides, we would like to be with a Christian therapist because our faith is important to us.”

Although they were eager, and perhaps desperate, to find sound help and to connect with a compatible therapist, I admired their approach, courage, and sense of adventure. They were willing to drive two hours each way to come to see me at the office. Consequently, we agreed to meet for an initial visit and a mutual interview.

Author: Bryan Ray

Journal of Psychology and Christianity, Vol 25(1), Spr 2006. pp. 74-78

Abstract:

The article presents the practical experiences of the author as a Christian counselor. He cites two case studies to show how despite their extensive knowledge about certain theoretical orientations, the counselors have to model Christ for their clients. The first case study is that of Allison who was a 25-year-old Hispanic female. She had never been married, but was seeking someone at the time. She wanted to talk about “personal issues,” so immediately my mind wondered. Although Allison was accepted for her sin, her sin was not accepted. As the story of John 8 explains, Jesus told the woman to “Go and leave her life of sin.” He loved her the way she was, but he refused to leave her that way. The same concept must be evident in our work as therapists. This does not mean that we accept someone and we never confront the ways in which one sin can ruin our lives. How we do this must reflect the gracious God of the Bible. Another brief case study that illustrates this point is the story of Ben. He is a 14-year-old male who comes from a broken home. For Ben, I was a model of what it meant to be safe and positive. There was no other avenue for him to receive this. He had nowhere else to turn. I modeled a safe male figure in his life. We should be a model for love and grace for our clients.

Author: P. Gregg Blanton

Journal of Psychology and Christianity, Vol 25(1), Spr 2006. pp. 77-86

Abstract:

A review of the literature on spiritual interventions reveals that the Christian practice of letter writing is missing from Christian psychotherapy. Using concepts from the disciplines of Christian spiritual direction and narrative family therapy, this article brings the ancient Christian tradition of letter writing back into the contemporary psychotherapy setting. Based upon an integrated approach, this article leads Christian psychotherapists through the process of creating and sending letters that incorporate Christian spirituality into the therapeutic process. The rationale, purpose, tone, language, and components of a letter, as well as the five spiritual elements of a letter, are clearly outlined. Finally, this article offers a case study to illustrate the use of this reclaimed spiritual intervention: letter writing.

Author: Roy Barsness

Journal of Psychology and Christianity, Vol 25(1), Spr 2006. pp. 44-53

Abstract:

This article turns its attention towards analytic and theological understandings of the pull toward the Other, and the role of surrender and transcendence in the therapeutic process. The author argues that the innate nature of our being is not only Other-driven but also Other-seeking and that meaning in life is both a movement towards authentic living and towards transcendence. At the core of our search for meaning in our lives, vis-à-vis our interpersonal world, lies the search for the holy. It is suggested that the sacred is essential both theologically and psychologically in our quest for authentic meaning in our lives. It is further argued that the work of surrender and transcendence most often appears in our most doubtful moments. Through the use of a case study, terror, mystery, and hope are demonstrated as the author surrenders to the unknowable regions of the analytic hour and the transcendent is revealed.

Author: Cappa, Patti

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(3), Fall 2005, pp. 263-265

Abstract:

Discusses a case study about the Colordo-based Marble Retreat, which offers crisis intervention for clergy. Basis of Marble Retreat’s therapy; Merits of exploring history; Change of behavior that precipitates a change of heart.

Author: Aten, Jamie D.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 23(3), Fall 2004, pp. 258-260

Abstract:

The article presents a case study related to Rubik’s Cube metaphor and the use of metaphors in the process of treating a patient suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder. This metaphor evolved out of author’s clinical work with Susan, a fictitious name, who was suffering from a severe case of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Rubik’s Cube metaphor has several therapeutic uses and benefits. It enabled the author to empower his client, educate Susan about the process of therapy, bring God into conversation between him and his clients, and help Susan integrate her sense of self.