Pastoral Counseling: A Ministry of the Church: A Ministry of the Church

Pastoral Counseling: A Ministry of the Church: A Ministry of the Church

Pastoral counseling is unique, and John Patton, widely known practitioner and teacher, explains that uniqueness in the context of other forms of therapy available. He then determines what pastoral counseling is and how it is done. His theory focuses on the centrality of the pastoral relationship, reclaiming pastoral counseling as a legitimate ministry of the church. He shows that the pastoral relationship is common to both the generalist and the specialist in counseling and explains how his concept of "relational humanness" is the norm for Christian pastoral counseling. The accountability of the pastoral counselor in regard to the story of Jesus, in terms of his/her role and function as minister, and in relation to the community (the church which ordains and the peers in ministry) is discussed. How to structure a pastoral counseling interview, how to determine the unit of care, and how healing occurs in pastoral counseling are all important facets of this excellent book. Case studies, an index, and notes are included. John H. Patton is Professor of Pastoral Theology and Director of Th.D. Program at Columbia Theological Seminary. His current interests are in pastoral counseling, pastoral care of marriage and family, and in the study of interpretive methods for dealing with the taped and written texts of pastoral relationships. He is a certified supervisor of pastoral counseling, marriage and family therapy, and clinical pastoral education. Used Book in Good Condition