David Prowlison, Research Paper Example

Summary

Powlison in his book tries to outline the importance of counseling. He perceives counseling as a process that is biblical and should engage the use of biblical scriptures to achieve the best results. On the same light, he believes that the best way to approach human problems is to look at them from a creator’s perspective rather than the perspective of fellow humans. In this manner, the best results will be attained through the process. The theory aims at proving biblical superiority over issues related to mankind, and offers the best approach on the related issues. The author believes that dimension following biblical analysis offers the most suitable approach to problems handled during counseling. The rationale behind the below responses depend on my understanding of the concepts vis- a -vis the biblical implications.

1. Primary goal (What is the desired outcome?)

The desired outcome is to ensure that counselors develop the right framework for approaching various problems relating to life. The author also aims at ensuring that the bible be used as the only basis for provision of counseling services[1].

2. Development of problems and personal need (How do the issues come about?)

Problems occur in daily lives and finding the right way to address them greatly matters. Counseling offers the right format for addressing these problems and putting people in the right position to face their problems. The author believes that the bible can address the various problems related to human life and welfare.

3. Biblical integration (How much of the Bible is used in this methodology?)

David Powlison has used various biblical implications in his theory. So much of the bible has been used in his methodology and it has formed the main basis for counseling. According to the approach he gives, he reveals the bible as the right formula for a good counseling.

4. Formula for change (the author’s stated steps to the desired outcome)

The formula for change involves a number of processes these are; diagnostic categories, then informal explanations of emotions and behaviors, interpreting external sufferings and finally definition of applicable solutions alongside the characters of the counselor.

5. Balance of theology and spirituality (Does the author lean more to theology or spirituality?)

The author majorly dwells on spirituality rather than theology. This is because he points out biblical facts the way they are and translates them into deeper meaning.

6. Human personality (development and structure)

Powlison tends to view the human nature from a different perspective, not coram Anthropos. Powlison believes that the true extent of human nature can be best understood through the creator rather than the creatures[2]. From the above argument, there is the possibility of understanding other persons through other persons. He instead chooses to understand the human nature through God who created them and understands all things pertaining to their livelihood.

7. Counselor’s function and role (What does the counselor/counselee relationship look like?)

The main function of the counselor is to pass message to the persons with problems and enable them to see with new eyes. This implies that after counseling process, the prospect will develop an entirely different meaning and perception of the matters at hand. The counselor/ counselee relationship need to be one that is respectful. The counselor needs to have authority over the counselee to enable a proper understanding between them.

8. Major contribution to counseling (How does this theory impact counseling?)

This theory has a lot of impact on counseling. For instance, it offers a good basis through which effective counseling can be done. All advices and opinions used during counseling revolve around the bible and other biblical books. Counselors therefore have a good basis for counseling and can deliver the best instructions

9. Limitations of this counseling theory (What are the practical boundaries of this methodology?)

The counseling theory has a major limitation; the limitation is that it only applies Christian doctrines. People who are non-Christians may find it very hard to fully understand and put in use the various concepts.

10. Classification (nouthetic, biblical, Christian, Christian psychology, integration, etc.)

The classification of this theory is Christian psychology. This is proved by many biblical elements put together to form the various concepts used in this theory[3]. The nature of reasoning here revolves around behaving and doing things positively in his/her life.

Practical Application

1. Give practical application to each author’s material as relates to the utility for the overall discipline of counseling and the specific potential influence upon your life and ministry.

One of the practical applications of this theory is finding a person who is depressed and applying the counseling process on them. During the counseling, they should be informed of the nature of counseling as well as the various attributes described on the book. By carefully applying these concepts, you can be certain of finding the best.

2. Give a brief example of how this author’s book might impact a counseling moment.

This book can greatly affect counseling moment if its principles are clearly defined and followed. Counselors can read the various proposals made on the book and then apply them when seeking solution to the various problems[4]. In addition, the book states the various areas that need to be tackled during counseling to ensure great outcome is achieved.

Bibliography

Mann, Michael. The Sources of Social Power: Volume 1, A History of Power from the Beginning to AD 1760. Cambridge University Press, 2006.

Milne, Aileen. Counselling. 3rd rev. ed. London: Teach Yourself Books, 2009.

Powlison, David, and Paul David, Tripp. Domestic abuse: how to help. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub., 2002.

Powlison, David. Counsel the word: a selection of readings. 2. ed. Glenside, Pa.: Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation, 2002.

[1] Powlison, David, and Paul David, Tripp. Domestic abuse: how to help. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub., 2002.

[2] Milne, Aileen. Counselling. 3rd rev. ed. London: Teach Yourself Books, 2009.

[3] Mann, Michael. The Sources of Social Power: Volume 1, A History of Power from the Beginning to AD 1760. Cambridge University Press, 2006.

[4] Powlison, David. Counsel the word: a selection of readings. 2. ed. Glenside, Pa.: Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation, 2002.