Date
5-22-2024
Department
Rawlings School of Divinity
Degree
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Chair
John S. Knox
Keywords
Intrapersonal conflict, intrapersonal, Christian, Christian Intrapersonal Formation, Spiritual formation, counseling, pastoral, pastoral counseling, behavioral sciences, behavior, communication, church, pastoral care, interpersonal, faith-based, discipleship ministries, proactive pastoral counseling, proactive
Disciplines
Counseling
Recommended Citation
Kohen, Yaron I., "Proactive Pastoral Counseling: A Christlike Integrative Therapeutic for Creating Christian Intrapersonal Formation in Believers at First Baptist Church of Harmony, ME" (2024). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 5692.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/5692
Abstract
This action research project introduces Proactive Pastoral Counseling (PPC) as a Christian Integrative Therapeutic (CIT). PPC, combined with its counterpart, Christian Intrapersonal Formation (CIF), offers a proactive pastoral counseling approach to assist others in coping with intrapersonal conflict while guiding them toward Christian intrapersonal formation. The impetus behind the study addresses the need for pastoral counseling with members of First Baptist Church (FBC) in Harmony, ME. Chapter One lays out the history, background, and beliefs of FBC and the Maine culture dating back to the late 1700s. Chapter Two addresses the nature of pastoral counseling, its tenets, and applications described in literature and field research. Theoretical and theological applications are also noted. Chapter Three provides the methodology of the CIF four-step process, offering others a vantage point into the CIF program while viewing the efficacy of PPC. Chapter Four provides the results of the CIF training program, laying out the results for each FBC member who submitted to the CIF training program. Chapter Five provides PPC’s overall benefits, advantages, and options for future applications, such as integrating PPC and the CIF program with other churches, congregations, and ministry programs, such as discipleship ministries and outreach programs specific to reaching non-religious entities. Employing PPC for one’s church or organization is practical, realistic, and healthy for all who consider its applications. Applying a PPC approach integrated with the CIF four-step program will enhance the spiritual well-being of all participating.
