WC25 Program_LR 8

PROGRAM

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center Nashville, Tennessee | September 23-27, 2025

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL INFORMATION 06 Conference Welcome 10 Conference Schedule 13 AACC Leadership 17

PLENARY SESSIONS 69

Speakers & Summaries

SPECIAL EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT 79 Book Signings 80 Poster Sessions 81 Special Events Schedule 82 Entertainment Lineup 84 Networking Mixers

Conference Information Convention Center Maps

22

273

Contributor Index

MENTAL HEALTH LEARNING INSTITUTE INTENSIVES 26 Full-day Workshops

TRACK WORKSHOPS 88

Track Quick-Reference Guide

PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS 32

95

Speakers & Summaries

Morning Pre-conference Workshops Afternoon Pre-conference Workshops

52

CONFERENCE EXHIBITORS 233 Exhibit Hall Map 234 Exhibitor Listings

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CONFERENCE WELCOME

Welcome to the 2025 AACC World Conference!

On behalf of the American Association of Christian Counselors, we are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to each of you as we gather for the 2025 AACC “United” World Conference in beautiful Nashville, Tennessee! You are join ing over 7,000 mental health and ministry professionals from all 50 states and more than 50 countries worldwide, and we will have an unforgettable week together. We cannot express enough how excited we are to have you join us for this transformative event. The World Conference is a chance to gather as a community of dedicated leaders united in our mission to provide excellent, compassionate, and effective Christ-centered mental healthcare. Over the next few days, we will engage in rich discussions, thought provoking presentations, and uplifting worship to equip and empower us in our chosen fields. Here at the World Conference, there will be many oppor tunities to learn from renowned speakers and experts in Christian counseling, ministry, culture, and government. We have prayerfully assembled a diverse lineup of 50 three hour pre-conference workshops, 6 six-hour mental health intensive sessions, 175 track workshops, and 18 plenary addresses. Please know that our team has worked diligently to ensure access to the most current and innovative research and information, enabling us to enhance our clinical skills and deepen our faith! Furthermore, this conference provides a unique occasion to build lifelong connections with fellow Christian mental health professionals from across the country and around the world. The chance to network and engage in conversations with like-minded individuals who share our passion for inte grating faith and counseling is invaluable.

We want to say a heartfelt thank you to our sponsors and ministry partners for joining us this week, and we encour age you to visit the exhibit hall during your time at the conference. As we share this experience together, we want to express our sincere gratitude for your commitment to the field of Christian counseling and dedication to serving others. Your presence at this event is a testament to your unshakeable pursuit of excellence and desire to bring heal ing to people who so desperately need hope, especially hope found in Jesus.

Finally, we would like to thank Team AACC. Without your collective efforts, this conference would not be possible.

Our team is excited to welcome you to Nashville! We eagerly look forward to seeing what God will do in and through the 2025 World Conference and witnessing the incredible impact that will undoubtedly flow from our time together.

Blessings,

Dr. Tim Clinton, Ed.D., LPC, LMFT President, American Association of Christian Counselors

Julie Clinton, M.Ad., M.B.A. President, Extraordinary Women Ministries

2025 AACC UNITED WORLD CONFERENCE

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CONFERENCE WELCOME

ing and impactful conference to support and strengthen your mission to bring healing to a hurting world. Over the coming days, you’ll gain insight from leading voices in the field, par ticipate in hands-on workshops, enjoy vibrant worship, and experience world class entertainment. Each moment is crafted to equip you with relevant tools, current research, and real-world strate gies to elevate your work and deepen your impact for Christ. We understand that your calling to care for others is more than mastering knowledge and techniques—it’s a sacred journey of hope and restoration found in Christ. We’ve created an atmosphere, where you’ll be refreshed through wor ship, encouraged by Scripture, and guided by God’s truth as you carry out the vital role of caregiving.

Founder of the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, and Dr. Gregory Jantz, founder of The Center, A Place of Hope. Both men are heroes of the faith and have power fully impacted the Christian counseling community. Please join us in praying for the Dobson and Jantz families, as we honor the life and legacy of these great men this week at the World Conference. Welcome again to the 2025 AACC “Unit ed” World Conference! Let’s step forward together into a time of transformation, encouragement, and renewed commit ment to our shared purpose. May this experience bring clarity, connection, and spiritual renewal to your journey.

Greetings from Nashville! On behalf of the AACC Executive Adviso ry Board, our leadership team, and every member of the AACC family, I’m thrilled to welcome you to the 2025 AACC “United” World Conference! This week, you are stepping into the world’s larg est gathering of Christian mental health professionals, leaders, coaches, and lay helpers, and we are confident that God will do remarkable things during our time together. We’ve designed an inspir

With heartfelt appreciation,

Ben Allison, J.D., M.B.A. Chief Executive Officer, American Association of Christian Counselors

This year, we lost two pivotal members of the AACC Family: Dr. James Dobson,

In Loving Memory Of Gregory L. Jantz Ph.D., C.E.D.S. Mental Health Pioneer

Founder of The Center • A Place of Hope July 13, 1959 - July 4, 2025

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CONFERENCE WELCOME

Welcome to Nashville! It’s a privilege to have you join us for the 2025 AACC “Unit ed” World Conference! Over the next few days, you’ll be part of something truly special—thousands of believers from all walks of life, coming together to learn, grow, worship, and en courage one another in the work God has placed before us. You can expect a week full of powerful teaching, hands-on learning, heartfelt worship, and moments of joy and laugh ter. My hope is that you walk away with renewed vision, practical tools, and a deeper sense of God’s presence in your calling. I encourage you to make the most of your time here and let God speak into your life in fresh ways. This is more than just a conference—it’s a time of equipping, refreshing, and ignit ing hearts for Kingdom impact as we seek to help others heal life’s deepest wounds.

Welcome to the 2025 AACC “United” World Conference! We’re thrilled to have you here for an unforgettable week of learning, worship, and connection. You’re part of the world’s largest gathering of Christian men tal health professionals, leaders, coaches, and helpers—and we believe God has something special for you in these days together. Expect powerful messages, practical workshops, uplifting worship, and moments of laughter and joy. Our prayer is that you’ll leave refreshed in spirit, encouraged in your calling, and equipped with new tools to bring hope and healing to a hurting world. Take time to connect, share, and build relationships that will bless you long after the con ference ends.

We’re so glad you’re here. Let’s be expectant together for what God will do!

We’re glad you’re here and I can’t wait to see how God moves in our time together!

With joy,

Ted Cunningham, MACE Pastor, Woodland Hills Family Church Conference Host

Dr. Zach Clinton, Ph.D., LPC-R Vice President, American Association of Christian Counselors Host, The Built Different Podcast Conference Host

Thank you to the 2025 AACC United World Conference Platinum and Platinum Elite sponsors

2025 AACC UNITED WORLD CONFERENCE

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CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 6:00 - 9:00 PM Conference Registration Open Delta Lobby B TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 7:00 - 11:00 AM Conference Registration Open Delta Lobby B 1:00 - 9:00 PM Conference Registration Open Delta Lobby B 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Mental Health Learning Institute Intensives WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Conference Registration Open Delta Lobby B 8:30 - 11:45 AM Pre-conference Workshops 12:00 - 7:00 PM Exhibit Hall Open Ryman Hall A2 1:45 - 5:00 PM Pre-conference Workshops 6:30 - 9:00 PM “Let’s Get it Started” Opening Celebration Event and Plenary Session Delta Ballroom Opening Remarks: Tim Clinton, Ed.D. Speaker: Gary Chapman, Ph.D. | Concert: Chris Tomlin THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Conference Registration Open Delta Lobby B 7:30 - 8:15 AM Plenary Session Delta Ballroom Speaker: Tim Timberlake 8:45 - 10:00 AM 25 Track Presentations 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Exhibit Hall Open Ryman Hall A2 10:45 AM – 12:45 PM Plenary Session Delta Ballroom Speaker: Curt Thompson, M.D. | Speaker: Daniel Amen, M.D. 12:45 - 2:15 PM Poster Presentation Symposium Ryman Hall A2 2:15 - 3:30 PM 25 Track Presentations 4:30 - 5:45 PM Plenary Session Delta Ballroom Human Flourishing Symposium 2.0: Tyler VanderWeele, Ph.D., Harold Koenig, M.D., and host, Zach Clinton, Ph.D. Speaker: Bob Goff 6:30 - 8:30 PM “Rock the Block” Celebration with Music and Entertainment Volunteer Ballroom CDE (Ticketed Event) Entertainment: Micah Tyler and Ted Cunningham 7:00 - 9:00 PM Light University Graduation Delta Ballroom A Commencement Address: Jay Strack, D.Min.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 7:30 - 8:15 AM Plenary Session Delta Ballroom Speaker: Bishop Kelvin Cobaris 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Conference Registration Open Delta Lobby B 8:45 - 10:00 AM 25 Track Presentations 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Exhibit Hall Open Ryman Hall A2 10:45 AM - 12:45 PM Plenary Session Delta Ballroom Speaker: Lysa Terkeurst | Speaker: John Townsend, Ph.D. 12:45 - 2:15 PM Poster Presentation Symposium Ryman Hall A2 1:00 - 2:00 PM Christian Ministry Leaders’ Luncheon 2:15 - 3:30 PM 25 Track Presentations 4:15 - 5:30 PM 25 Track Presentations 5:45 - 7:00 PM AACC Publishing Meet and Greet/Signing Delta Island 5 6:00 - 7:00 PM Mixer Events View pages 84-85 for individual locations 7:00 - 9:00 PM Religious Liberty Symposium Volunteer Mezzanine 16 Speaker: Hon. Sam Brownback 7:30 - 9:30 PM Night of Joy Dinner Theater Delta Ballroom A (Ticketed Event) Entertainment: Dennis Swanberg and Katy Nichole SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 7:30 - 8:15 AM Plenary Session Delta Ballroom Speaker: Greg Surratt 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Conference Registration Open Delta Lobby B 8:45 - 10:00 AM 25 Track Presentations 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Exhibit Hall Open Ryman Hall A2 10:45 AM - 12:45 PM Plenary Session Speakers: Hon. Sam Brownback, Paula White-Cain, and Jennifer S. Korn | Speaker: Jennie Allen Special Guests: David Green and Bill High 1:00 - 2:00 PM Life, Legacy and Leadership Luncheon Magnolia Terrace (Ticketed Event) Speakers: David Green and Bill High 2:15 - 3:30 PM 25 Track Presentations 4:30 - 6:00 PM Closing Plenary Session Delta Ballroom Speaker: Henry Cloud, Ph.D. | Speaker: Siang-Yang Tan, Ph.D. Tennessee C (Ticketed Event) Speaker: Jay Strack, D.Min.

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ABOUT AACC

AACC Publishing is the official publishing arm of the American Association of Christian Counselors, committed to equipping Christian counselors, pastors, and ministry leaders with biblically grounded, clinically informed resources. Specializing in books, curricula, and training materials, AACC Publishing addresses today’s most pressing mental health and spiritual issues through a faith-integrated lens.

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AACC LEADERSHIP

PRESIDENT Tim Clinton, Ed.D.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Ben Allison, J.D., M.B.A

VICE PRESIDENT Zach Clinton, Ph.D., LPC-R

Medical Director Karl Benzio, M.D.

Spiritual Director Siang-Yang Tan, Ph.D.

Leadership Director Henry Cloud, Ph.D.

Clinical Director John Townsend, Ph.D.

Sr. Director of Counseling, Continuing Education,

Director of Psychology Shannae Anderson, Ph.D.

Director of Practice and Ministry Development Mark Mayfield Ph.D., LPC

Director of Psychological Care Gary Sibcy, Ph.D.

Director of Psychiatric Care E. John Kuhnley Ph.D., M.D.

and Credentialing Mercy Connors, Ph.D., LPC-S

EXECUTIVE ADVISORY BOARD

Jim Cress, M.A.

Ted Cunningham, MACE

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Herb Fisher

Kenny Mauck, M.A.

Sharon May, Ph.D.

Ron Hawkins, Ed.D., D.Min.

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CONFERENCE INFORMATION

REGISTRATION & INFORMATION Located in Delta Lobby A, the registration and information desk hours are as follows: Monday | 6:00-9:00 PM Tuesday | 7:00-11:00 AM & 1:00-9:00 PM

AUDIO & VIDEO Pre-conference workshops, workshop pre sentations, and plenary addresses will be recorded. Most plenary addresses will also be videotaped. Exceptions will be made if a presenter has not granted permission to record. Streaming or USBs may be pre-ordered at the AACC audio and video sales booth in Delta Lobby B or in the AACC Bookstore in the Ryman Exhibit Hall (see maps section in program). Personal audio or video taping of sessions is not permitted. CONTINUING EDUCATION INFORMATION The American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) offers some psychologists, licensed mental health professionals, and play therapists Continuing Education (CE) credit; some medical doctors, osteopathic physi cians, physicians’ assistants, and midwives Continuing Medical Education (CME) credit; and nurses and nurse practitioners Continuing Education Units (CEU) due to good standing with certain states and a limited number of professional organizations. Each workshop indicates what type of CE, CME, or CEU is available for an attendee. It remains the respon sibility of each participant to be aware of state licensure requirements. Participants should check their state and/or local regulations regarding required continuing education hours.

certificate. Failure to sign in or out will result in forfeiture of credit for the entire course. No exceptions will be made. Partial credit is not available. (Plenary sessions do not meet APA standards). • The American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC), #1400, is approved as a provider for social work Continuing Education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), www.aswb.org, through the Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. ASWB Approval Period: (09/06/2023 to 09/06/2026). Licensed social workers should contact their individual regulatory boards to review cur rent Continuing Education requirements for licensure renewal. Any presentation that is less than 50 minutes in duration is not approved by the ASWB for Continuing Education credits. (Plenary sessions do not meet ASWB standards). Approved Education Provider and is rec ognized as meeting nationally approved standards of education developed for the addiction/substance use disorders in the counseling profession. CE contact hours that are provided will be accepted toward national credentialing by NAADAC and many of the individual state licensing and certification bodies, as well. Please check with your state for further information and authorization. (Plenary sessions do not meet NAADAC stan dards). • American Association of Christian Counselors has been approved by Association of Christian School International (ACSI) as an Approved CEU provider. Programs that qualify for ACSI CEUs are clearly identified and include the number of CEUs as well as the type (Bible and/or Education). • The training offered through AACC spon sored conferences and training programs meets the ongoing CE requirements for coun selors, life coaches, and crisis responders who are credentialed through the International Board of Christian Care (IBCC) or one of its affiliate boards: the Board of Christian Professional and Pastoral Counseling (BCPPC); the Board of Christian Life Coaching (BCLC); the Board of Mental Health Coaching (BMHC) and the Board of Christian Crisis and Trauma Response (BCCTR). Continuing Medical Education/ Continuing Education Units Accreditation This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and Policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of the Christian Medical & Dental Associations (CMDA) and American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC). Christian Medical & Dental Associations is accredited by the Accreditation Council for • The AACC is approved by the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC), #166470, as an

Wednesday | 7:00 AM-9:00 PM Thursday | 7:00 AM-6:00 PM

Friday | 8:00 AM-6:00 PM Saturday | 8:00 AM-6:00 PM NAME BADGES & WORKSHOP SCHEDULES

Admission to the AACC United Conference events requires an official United Conference name badge. Name badges will permit access to the plenary sessions and the Ryman Exhibit Hall. To enter workshop presentations, attend ees must also present a workshop session schedule valid for that particular session. This schedule will be provided with the name badges and Brushfire attendee information, based on workshop presentation selections made in advance. If you did not receive a work shop selection schedule or did not preregister for workshop presentations, please visit the registration area to receive assistance or edit your Brushfire attendee information. MESSAGE & JOB BULLETIN BOARD The conference message board is located out side the Ryman Exhibit Hall area. Individuals may post and retrieve messages. AACC CONFERENCE BOOKSTORE The AACC Bookstore is located in the Ryman Exhibit Hall. The Bookstore will make available cutting-edge resources by some of the world’s leading faculty, including several new courses and books. Be sure to stop by and let us help equip you to help others. FOOD You are responsible for your own meals at the conference. There are many restaurants located throughout the hotel as well as on Delta Island. SPECIAL EVENTS From the “Let’s Get it Started” Opening Celebration to the “Night of Joy” Dinner Theater, the United Conference has a variety of special events for attendees. See the program special events section for more information. CONFERENCE STAFF All conference staff members will be wearing name badges. Please do not hesitate to ask staff members or volunteers for assistance. Our goal is to be of service to you. EXHIBITS Sponsors, publishers, organizations, and aca demic institutions are offering information and products in the Ryman Exhibit Hall. Exhibit hours are as follows: Wednesday, 12:00-7:00 PM; Thursday & Friday, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM; and Saturday, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Mental Health Continuing Education Statements

• The AACC is approved in multiple states to sponsor Continuing Education for licensed mental health professionals. For state-by-state information, please visit https://worldconfer ence.net/continuing-education/. (Plenary sessions do not meet State standards).

• American Association of Christian Counselors has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7543.

Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. American Association of Christian Counselors is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs. • The American Psychological Association approves National Marriage Seminars of America to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. National Marriage Seminars of America maintains responsibility for this pro gram and its content. Counselors/Marriage and Family Therapists/Mental Health Counselors Nearly all Professional Counselors, MFT & Mental Health Counselor boards accept APA. Check with your board to be sure. Please Note: Licensing Boards change regulations occa sionally. We attempt to stay on top of the most recent changes. If you have questions about a course meeting your specific board’s approval, we recommend you contact your board directly for a definitive answer. Participants must have paid registration fees, signed in, attended the entire seminar, and signed out to receive a

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CONFERENCE INFORMATION

Continuing Medical Education to provide con tinuing medical education for physicians. Physician Credit The Christian Medical & Dental Associations designates this educa tional activity for a maximum of 20.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s) ™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. Physician Assistant AAPA accepts certificates of participation for educational activities certi fied for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s) ™. by an organization accredited by the ACCME or a recognized state medical society. Physician assistants may receive up to 20.75 credits for completing this activity. Nurse Practitioner The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program (AANPCP) accepts AMA PRA Category 1 Credit ™ from organizations accredited by the ACCME. Individuals are responsible for check ing with the AANPCP for further guidelines. Nurse practitioners may receive up to 20.75 for completing this activity. Nursing credits This activity has been submit ted to Georgia Nurses Association for approval to award contact hours. Georgia Nurses Association is an accredited approver of nurs ing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. Determination of credit is pending. AAFP Application for CME credit has been filed with the American Academy of Family Physicians. Determination of credit is pending. American Osteopathic Association The training offered through AACC sponsored conferences and training programs meet crite ria for the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) 2A CME credit requirements. For fur ther information about AOA 2A CME credit, please visit https://osteopathic.org/wp-con tent/uploads/CME-Activity-Descriptions.pdf Subject to change: For the most up-to-date information, please visit https://worldconfer ence.net/continuing-education/. Each workshop indicates what type of Continuing Education credit is given to an attendee. It remains the responsibility of each participant to be aware of state licensure require ments. Participants should check their state and/ or local regulations regarding required CE, CME, or CEU hours. Participants understand and acknowledge that specific presentation/program content (e.g., trauma and abuse subject matter) may result in emotional, psychological, and/or spiritual distress related to past or current life Please view Welcome Letter that indicates which workshops have below CME/CEU approval.

experiences. As such, participants may elect to discontinue attendance and/or seek supportive or professional services and resources. The cost for CEs is $89 and CME/ CEUs is $149 to cover administrative and processing fees. CE/CME/ CEUs must be purchased before the conference or on-site before the end of the conference. After the conference, participants will not be able to purchase CE/CME/CEUs. To attain CE/CME/CEU letters/certificates, participants must have a Continuing Education Form that is stamped for each workshop attended. If there is no stamp for a workshop, the participant cannot receive CE/ CME/CEU credit for that workshop. It is the participant’s responsibility to get their Continuing Education Form stamped by a CE Monitor after each workshop. If a partici pant leaves a workshop early for any reason, they will not be able to have their Continuing Education Form stamped. The participant must turn in their Continuing Education Form before leaving the conference. The Continuing Education Form cannot be mailed to AACC after the conference. Once the Continuing Education Form is checked for the appropri ate stamps, the participant will be alerted to complete their evaluations. Letters and/ or certificates will display the name of the attendee, program title, the number of CE hours awarded, the date of completion, and other information depending on board or state requirements. The stamped Continuing Education Form should be filled out com pletely. Those Continuing Education Forms that are not completely filled out will be delayed for processing. Please allow 4-6 weeks for standard processing (major conference events may take more than 6-8 weeks). Any requests for expedited letters or reprints may result in additional fees. For more information and the most up-to-date CE/CME/CEU infor mation, please use the QR code below. CONTINUING EDUCATION STATEMENT EVALUATION FORMS All conference attendees are requested to com plete a Conference Session Evaluation for each session attended. Online Evaluation Form Instructions After you receive an email from AACC that evalua tions are now open, follow these steps: 1. Attendees will receive an email from Brushfire that states “Evaluations are Now Open” 2. Click on “Access Your Events”

5. Click on the evaluation for the workshops you attended. Each evaluation is based on the workshop you attended. You must complete each evaluation for each workshop to obtain each of your CE Certificates. 6. Complete the evaluation and click “Submit” • You must provide correct information for your profession, state, and license number to receive the correct certificate(s). • Please follow all directions. • If you need Continuing Education credit for more than one state and/or more than one discipline, please fill out the form again for your second state and/or second discipline. You may fill out the form as many times as you need different Certificates. 7. Print or download your CE Certificate Repeat steps 5-7 for each track you attended. Please note that if you are getting an APA cer tificate, it will come from another group in your email in 7-10 business days. If you need your certificate sooner, you must contact National Marriage Seminars at admin@nationalmar riageseminars.com MEDITATION ROOM Soul Restorations invites you to experience the Word and presence of God in a different way. When you enter the Meditation Room, the only words that you will hear are directly from the Bible. The original music you will hear is specifically composed with resonant sounds that will open your soul to let the Spirit of God speak to your heart, revive your spirit and restore your soul. Available Thursday – Saturday in Delta Island 6 at 8:15-8:45 AM, 9:15-9:45 AM, 10:15-10:45 AM, 12:45-1:15PM, 1:45-2:15 PM, 3:30-4:00 PM, and 6:00-6:30 PM. HELP DESK Problems with hotel, ground or air transporta tion may be addressed at the Gaylord Opryland Guest Services Desk in the Magnolia Lobby. Other conference issues may be directed to the AACC Help Desk in the Delta Lobby. LOST & FOUND Lost and found articles will be taken to the Guest Services Desk located in the Magnolia Lobby. SMOKING Smoking is not permitted during any of the sessions or events at the United Conference. DISCLAIMER Presentations are the responsibility of the indi vidual presenter, speaker, or workshop leader and represent that person’s opinions, beliefs, and techniques. The opinions expressed by the presenters, speakers, participants, or workshop leaders do not necessarily represent the opin ions of the American Association of Christian Counselors.

3. Click on “World Conference 2025” 4. Click on “Edit or Complete Info”

A password in the email will allow you to access these evaluations. Please see the email for this password.

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“ENGAGING THE CHURCH TO FAITHFULLY SERVE THOSE WHO SERVE US.”

ORGANIZATIONS

CHURCHES

GOVERNMENT

COMMUNITY

Rooted in Christian compassion, we are empowering warfighters , veterans , and first responders to heal, rebuild, and thrive through expanded access to care and counseling. Together, we honor their sacrifice and reflect Christ's love through action.

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The Human Flourishing Alliance brings faith-based communities, academic institutions, healthcare providers, nonprofits, and leaders together to support America’s heroes—active-duty military, veterans, law enforcement personnel, and their families. We work to mobilize federal support to local churches and communities, placing faith-based organizations at the center of healing.

OUR HEROES Active-duty military, veterans, law enforcement

OUR MISSION Uniting leaders to empower faith-based communities to help our nation’s heroes flourish.

OUR VISION A nation where faith-based communities lead in healing and restoring the heroes who protect us .

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FATHER CHARLES SIKORSKY DIVINE MERCY UNIVERSITY

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AND MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON!

ABOUT THE HERO COUNCIL The HERO Council, convened by the AACC, serves as a national advisory body guiding the Human Flourishing Alliance in providing faith-based behavioral health support to military, veterans, federal law enforcement, and their families . It ensures all care, training, and partnerships are evidence-based, ethically sound, spiritually integrated, and promote human flourishing.

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CONVENTION CENTER MAPS

Ryman Exhibit Hall Convention Center | Level 0

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CONVENTION CENTER MAPS

Delta, Davidson, Volunteer, & Tennessee Ballrooms Convention Center | Level 2

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CONVENTION CENTER MAPS

Mezzanines & Meeting Rooms Convention Center | Level M

Delta Island

Delta Mezzanine

Magnolia Mezzanine

Volunteer Mezzanine

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CONVENTION CENTER MAPS

Gaylord Opryland Resort Map Convention Center and Grounds

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CONFERENCE INTENSIVES

090: Comprehensive Biblical-Clinical Theory of Change: Targeted Treatment Strategies Based on Client Issue and Need 6 credit hours Continuing Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: APA, ASWB, NBCC, IBCC, NAADAC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling Level: Intermediate David King, DSW Indiana Wesleyan University

4. Identify and explain key biblical terms (sin, repentance, confession, infirmities) and their importance for effectively integrating Christian faith and counseling practice 5. Summarize and explain key spiritual factors in a compre hensive biblical-clinical theory of change and their relevance to counseling practice 6. Discuss two case examples and apply a comprehensive biblical-clinical theory of change to engaging, assessing, and identifying interventions for clients’ specific issues and needs 091: Relational and Attachment Trauma: Issues, Interventions, and Techniques 6 credit hours Continuing Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: APA, ASWB, NBCC, IBCC, NAADAC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling Continuing Medical Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits, AOA Category 2A Credits, Georgia Nurses Association, AAFP Level: Advanced Summary Individuals exposed to early relational and attachment trau ma often experience a range of maltreatment from primary caregivers, including both acts of omission and commis sion. Acts of omission involve psychological and emotional neglect, such as a lack of warmth, sensitivity, and availability. Acts of commission include physical and sexual abuse (high grade trauma), but also emotional abuse and psychological insults—repeated put-downs, demeaning comments, ma nipulation, and rejection (low-grade trauma). Psychologists, licensed mental health professionals, and medical person nel will analyze how these traumatic experiences have last ing effects, leading to three primary consequences: signifi cant difficulties with emotion regulation, pervasive fear and avoidance in relationships, and developmental failures in mentalization, which is the ability to understand and pre dict one’s own and others’ mental states. This training will assess the latest research on the impact of relational and at tachment trauma. It will also introduce five core, evidence based treatment modules adapted from the Unified Protocol and Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP) to address these debilitating symptoms. Learning Objectives 1. Recognize key findings of the impact of relational and at tachment trauma on brain development, emotional regula tion, interpersonal fear and avoidance, and mentalization 2. Examine a transdiagnostic framework for understanding how relational and attachment trauma can lead to a broad array of psychological disorders, from chronic depression and anxiety to PTSD, dissociative disorders, and various per sonality disorders Gary Sibcy, Ph.D. Liberty University

Ron Hawkins, Ed.D., D.Min. American Association of Christian Counselors

Mercy Connors, Ph.D. American Association of Christian Counselors

Summary All mental health professionals are guided by theories of change and their corresponding assumptions about the source of problems and their solutions to help clients (Faija et al., 2023; McMinn, 2012; Moore et al., 2015). To remain true to their faith, Christian mental health professionals choose to maintain a comprehensive theory of change that allows them to ethically engage all clients while uphold ing their biblical beliefs (King, Connors & Hawkins, 2024). Unfortunately, faith-based mental health professionals fre quently lack formal training in integrating faith, theory, and practice and must instead rely on personal experience and other sources of education (Husain & Sherr, 2015; Moffatt & Oxhandler, 2018). In this workshop, psychologists, licensed mental health professionals, and ministry leaders will learn about a comprehensive biblical theory of change and model for clinical decision-making that will allow them to ethically integrate their faith and practice while effectively helping Christian and non-Christian clients achieve change. Partici pants will also be able to identify key biblical terms and how mental health professionals can utilize them in a clinical set ting. Finally, participants will be given two case examples to apply the biblical theory of change and learn how to target treatment strategies based on clients’ issues and needs. Learning Objectives 1. Describe a biblical-clinical comprehensive theory of change for clinical mental health practice 2. Utilize a comprehensive biblical-clinical theory of change to assess counseling theories and identify interventions in counseling practice 3. Compare a comprehensive biblical-clinical theory of change with non-faith-based theories of change and discuss ethical implications for practice

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CONFERENCE INTENSIVES

3. Develop ways to formulate complex cases using a transdi agnostic framework and how to tailor-make treatments using a combination of evidence-based treatment modules 4. Evaluate how to administer an attachment-oriented devel opmental history to help clients explore the effects of early re lationship disturbances on their social-emotional functioning 5. Discuss how to teach clients how emotions work and how early adverse relational experiences interfere with emotion regulation skills 6. Describe easy methods for teaching clients non-judgmen tal, present-focused, emotional awareness skills and ways to become more cognitively flexible 7. Identify maladaptive behaviors clients use to avoid emo tions and identify adaptive alternatives 8. Assess the basic skills of emotional exposure, from build ing a hierarchy to conducting exposures both in and out of session 9. Analyze the specific skills for improving mentalization skills by examining transference interactions in therapy 10. Discuss methods for helping clients modify core attach ment schemas by learning to discriminate between the ther apy relationship and past toxic relationships 092: Sexual Compulsivity, the Brain, and Patterns of Addiction and Recovery 6 credit hours Continuing Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: ASWB, NBCC, IBCC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling Continuing Medical Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits, AOA Category 2A Credits, Georgia Nurses Association, AAFP Level: Intermediate Jim Cress, M.A., CSAT Integrity Redeemed, PLLC Counseling and Intensives

and recovery. Participants will explore how SC functions as an addictive behavior, its effects on the brain’s reward sys tem, and its influence on therapeutic approaches. With a fo cus on practical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment tools, the workshop integrates neurobiological understanding into evidence-based recovery strategies. Tailored for licensed mental health professionals, ministry leaders, and medical professionals, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the transformative potential of integrating faith and science to guide clients toward lasting recovery. Learning Objectives 1. Differentiate sexual compulsivity from healthy sexual be havior by analyzing key characteristics and patterns 2. Explain how sexual addiction impacts brain structure and function, including the role of neurotransmitters like dopa mine and the brain’s reward system 3. Identify and classify the psychological and behavioral pat terns associated with sexual compulsivity 4. Compare and contrast sexual compulsivity with other ad dictive behaviors to assess similarities and differences 5. Evaluate evidence-based treatment strategies for address ing sexual compulsivity in clinical practice 6. Apply neuroscience-informed recovery techniques to cre ate and enhance therapeutic interventions for clients with sexual compulsivity 093: Restoring Hope: An Integrative Approach to Marital Therapy 6 credit hours Continuing Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: ASWB, NBCC, IBCC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling Level: Intermediate Robert Paul, M.S., LPC Focus on the Family

Mike Vaughn, M.A., CSAT Bethesda Workshops

Robert K. Burbee, Ph.D. Focus on the Family

Jason VanRuler, M.A., CSAT JVR Counseling, LLC

Summary This session introduces licensed mental health professionals and ministry leaders to Focus Marital Therapy (FMT), draw ing upon Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) principles, an evidence-based couples therapy developed and used by Focus on the Family’s Hope Restored Marriage Inten sive programs for more than 25 years. Having helped more than 14,000 couples across the United States and Canada, FMT provides a structured approach to addressing marital crises. Participants will learn to use tools like the Reactive Cycle to help couples map out personalized conflict patterns and develop the essential components of an ideal relational environment that fosters deeper connection and intimacy.

Summary When faced with the growing challenge of sexual compulsiv ity (SC), it can be easy to feel discouraged; however, there are effective strategies to address this multifaceted issue. This workshop will provide an in-depth examination of sexual compulsivity (SC) through the lens of neuroscience and ad diction theory, exploring its neurobiological underpinnings, the psychological patterns associated with compulsive sex ual behaviors, and evidence-based strategies for treatment

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CONFERENCE INTENSIVES

Additionally, attendees will gain practical skills to present clear visual depictions of healthy marriages versus typi cal relational struggles, equipping clients with tools such as Heart Talk, Steps to a Win-Win, and the Care Cycle to man age relational challenges effectively. This session offers both theoretical insights and actionable strategies to help couples rebuild intimacy and connection in their marriages. Learning Objectives 1. Describe the structure of the Focus Marital Therapy and which clients are best suited for this type of therapy 2. Explain the components of the Reactive Cycle tool and its relevance in identifying conflict patterns in relationships 3. Demonstrate the ability to map personalized conflict pat terns using the Reactive Cycle tool, fostering deeper under standing and intimacy in couples 4. Outline the key differences between a healthy marriage and a typical marriage, focusing on appropriate boundaries and relational responsibilities 5. Evaluate the impact of these differences on marital dy namics and identify strategies to work toward healthier rela tionships 6. Describe the three practical tools—Heart Talk, Steps to a Win-Win, and the Care Cycle—and their applications in managing relational challenges 7. Demonstrate the use of these tools in promoting long-last ing marital connection and resolving conflicts effectively 094: Christian Based Emotion Focused Therapy for Couples: Incorporating Faith into Evidence-based Practices 6 credit hours Continuing Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: APA, ASWB, NBCC, IBCC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling Level: Intermediate Sharon May, Ph.D. Safe Haven Relationship Center

the theology of the body into EFT to equip the mental health professional to engage the sexual issues within a client’s cy cles. Participants will learn how to apply this faith-based EFT to case studies provided by the presenters. Learning Objectives 1. Describe the core principles of attachment theory, emo tionally focused therapy (EFT), and the theology of rela tionships 2. Conceptualize the distress experienced by Christian cou ples through the lens of these principles and the role of faith in the therapeutic process 3. Evaluate case studies to identify and demonstrate the key steps and interventions of faith-based EFT 4. Apply these interventions to foster withdrawer engage ment, pursuer softening, and meaningful relational change in couples 5. Analyze and evaluate a couple’s sexual cycle to identify sexually related presenting issues 6. Apply faith-based EFT approaches, incorporating theolog ical principles and therapeutic techniques, to foster under standing and healing in the couple’s sexual relationship 095: Taming the Chaos: The Treatment of Borderline, Histrionic, Narcissistic, and Antisocial Personality Disorders 6 credit hours Continuing Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: APA, ASWB, NBCC, IBCC, NAADAC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling Continuing Medical Education Accreditations applicable to this workshop: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits, AOA Category 2A Credits, Georgia Nurses Association, AAFP Level: Advanced David Jenkins, Psy.D. Liberty University

Shannae Anderson, Ph.D. American Association of Christian Counselors

Linda Stewart, M.A. Safe Haven Relationship Center

Summary Personality disorders are a group of complex mental disorders that often generate chaos both within the client and interper sonally in relationships. Four of these personality disorders, borderline, histrionic, narcissistic, and antisocial, are known as “Cluster B” personality disorders, and they constitute the most common cluster of personality syndromes. Individu als diagnosed with Cluster B personality disorders tend to be recognized as “dramatic, emotional, or erratic.” As a result, they can create frustration for their loved ones and mental health professionals alike. This intensive workshop, tailored for psychologists, licensed mental health professionals, and medical professionals, will explore the typology of personality

Summary Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) has swept the marriage field, providing a revolutionary model for effective couples counseling. This faith-based EFT incorporates the client’s faith and essential aspects of attachment theory to allow for a more holistic therapeutic experience as the psychologist or licensed mental health professional moves a couple from hurting to connection in nine clear steps. This intensive will focus on specific techniques, interventions, and key shifts to foster lasting change in distressed couples. Furthermore, participants will engage with the concept of an integration of

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