CCC 27-4_LR 1

Let Love Lead: Reclaiming Control from Fear Page 28

Who Are Those “Swim Buddies” God Put in Your Life? Page 36

Becoming Your Best Self Page 26

A Publication of the American Association of Christian Counselors IN THIS ISSUE

Volume 27 | Issue 4

Lead Articles From the President Clinical Practice Innovative Thought & Practice Trending Now Healthy Relationships

1 10 15 18 22 26 28 32 36

Pastoral Care News & Notes Pass It On

AACC 2026 MEGA NATIONAL CHRISTIAN COUNSELING CONFERENCE

t The 2025 AACC UNITED World Conference is officially sold out! From September 23rd to 27th, nearly 7,000 attendees will gather at the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee, for one of the largest Christian counseling events in the world. Counselors, coaches, pastors, educators, and ministry leaders from all 50 states and more than 40 countries will come together for five days of training, worship, and community. This will be the 20th World Conference hosted at the Opryland, which has become a familiar and meaningful location for the AACC community. 2025 “UNITED” WORLD CONFERENCE SOLD OUT!

SEPTEMBER 10-12, 2026

SCAN TO REGISTER

Curt Thompson M.D. Center for Being Known

Daniel Amen M.D. Amen Clinics

George Barna Ph.D. Barna Group

Jack Graham D.Min. Prestonwood Baptist Church

Karl Benzio M.D. AACC

Mark Crear Ph.D. In The Zone

Jennifer Ellers

Shannae Anderson

Zach Clinton Ph.D. AACC

Harold Koenig M.D. AACC

Sharon May Ph.D. Safe Haven Relationship Center

Ron Hawkins Ed.D., D.Min., LPC AACC

M.A. AACC

Ph.D. AACC

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Top row, l to r: Dr. Gary Chapman, Dr. Daniel Amen, Lysa TerKeurst, Bishop Kelvin Cobaris; bottom row, l to r: Bob Goff, Jennie Allen, Dr. Henry Cloud, and Ambassador Sam Brownback

t The 2025 UNITED World Conference may be at capac ity, but its impact continues. Through training, worship, and shared experiences, this gathering will help strengthen those who serve others with conviction, clarity, and care. A Shared Commitment The UNITED theme reflects a desire to unite around what matters most: our faith, integrity, and the call to care for others. At a time when many feel isolated or overwhelmed, this conference offers a space to be encouraged, equipped, and reminded that we are not in this work alone. Our week together will feature: • 8 Mental Health Learning Institute six-hour intensives • 50 pre-conference workshops • 175 breakout workshops • 25 professional training tracks • 18 keynote speakers • Worship gatherings, networking events, and book signings The goal is to bring together people who care deeply about their work and want to continue growing person ally, professionally, and spiritually. Keynote Speakers The plenary sessions will feature trusted voices across counseling, ministry, research, and public service. Speakers include: • Dr. Gary Chapman • Dr. Daniel Amen • Lysa TerKeurst • Bishop Kelvin Cobaris

• • • • •

Bob Goff

Jennie Allen

Dr. Henry Cloud

Ambassador Sam Brownback

… and more! These sessions will focus on real issues, real people, and real hope. Attendees can expect to be challenged, refreshed, and reminded of why their work matters. Professional Development The Mental Health Learning Institutes offer extended, six-hour sessions on subjects like trauma, anxiety, mar riage and family care, coaching, and crisis response. These sessions provide deeper training and CE credits for those who need them. Pre-conference workshops allow attendees to begin the week with focused learning in specific subject areas. These three-hour sessions help attendees gain new tools, explore particular interests, and gain continuing educa tion in a specialized field. During the main portion of the conference, attendees can choose from 175 breakout workshops organized into 25 professional tracks. These tracks cover a wide range of topics, including: • Addiction and Recovery • Youth Mental Health • Neuroscience • Grief and Trauma • Marriage and Family • Spiritual Formation • Life Coaching and Leadership Each session is built to offer practical content that speaks directly to the day-to-day work of those serving others.

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Two New Symposiums This year’s conference will introduce two new symposiums that address timely and vital issues. 1. Human Flourishing 2.0 Clinical Symposium | Thursday, September 25 This symposium will explore global research on the connection between faith and mental well-being. It will highlight how spiritual beliefs and reli gious practices impact personal and community health and how that knowl edge can shape counseling and ministry work. Presenters include: • Dr. Tyler VanderWeele, Harvard University • Dr. Harold Koenig, Duke University • Dr. Byron Johnson, Baylor University 2. Religious Liberty Symposium | Friday, September 26 from 7:30 to 9:00 PM Former Ambassador Sam Brownback will host a special evening session on religious freedom and its impact on faith-based mental healthcare, joined by AACC Ethics and Advocacy Division leaders, Drs. Shannae Anderson and Mercy Connors. Together, they will explore recent legal developments and ethical challenges in the field of professional Christian counseling to offer insight on what counselors, ministries, and organizations need to know to remain informed and engaged. Worship and Community There will be opportunities for worship, reflection, and connection through out the week. These moments provide space to slow down, pray, and stay grounded in what matters most. Many attendees say that hallway conversa tions and shared meals are some of the most meaningful parts of their con ference experience. Whether you are a counselor, pastor, coach, or ministry leader, you will find content and connections that strengthen your work and sense of calling. Division Mixers, Exhibit Hall, and Bookstore In addition to training and plenary sessions, attendees will have the chance to connect with peers during AACC Division Mixers. These gatherings offer focused time for individuals serving in similar roles or working in related fields to meet, exchange ideas, and build relationships. Whether you are involved in clinical practice, pastoral care, education, coaching, or ministry leadership, the mixers provide space to connect with others who understand the joys and challenges of your work. The Exhibit Hall will feature more than 100 organizations and ministries offering tools, resources, and services to support Christian professionals. Attendees can explore new books, browse curricula, learn about certification programs, and talk directly with representatives from leading publishers, universities, counseling organizations, and tech platforms. The AACC Bookstore will be fully stocked with the latest titles in Christian counseling, leadership, marriage and family, mental health, coaching, and Christian living. Many plenary speakers and workshop presenters will be available for book signings throughout the week, allowing attendees to meet them in person and go home with a signed copy of their favorite resource. Save the Date The 2026 “Faith and Flourishing” Mega National Christian Counseling Conference is scheduled for September 10-12, 2026, at the Loews Arlington Hotel and Convention Center in Dallas, Texas. ; Whether you are a counselor, pastor, coach, or ministry leader, you will find content and connections that strengthen your work and sense of calling.

A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF CHRISTIAN COUNSELORS

President: TIM CLINTON VP of Publications/Editor-in-Chief: MARK CAMPER Advertising Director: KEISHA QUEEN

Graphic Designer: AMY LEACH COLE

Published quarterly by American Association of Christian Counselors, Inc., P.O. Box 739, Forest, VA 24551. AACC is an organization of evangelical pro fessional, lay, and pastoral counselors dedicated to promoting excellence and unity in Christian counseling. To ensure the confidentiality of all individuals men tioned in case material, names and identifying informa tion have been changed. Unsolicited manuscripts and poetry are not accepted. A query letter must be sent first, describing a proposed manuscript. Unfortunately, any unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned. CHRISTIAN COUNSELING CONNECTION grants permission for any original article (not a reprint) to be photocopied for use in a local church or classroom, provided no more than 250 copies are made, are dis tributed free, and indicate CHRISTIAN COUNSELING CONNECTION as the source. Advertising deadline for display advertising is approx imately six weeks before the month of publication. Please call for exact deadline dates. All advertising must be prepaid. If you have comments or questions about the content of CCC, please direct them to the Senior Editor. The views expressed by the reviewers, authors, or advertisers do not necessarily reflect those of the American Association of Christian Counselors, and a review in this publication does not imply an endorse ment. AACC and this publication do not assume responsibility in any way for members’ or readers’ efforts to apply or utilize information, suggestions, or recommendations made by the organization, its members, publications, or other resources. All rights reserved. Copyright 2019.

AACC Member Services & Editorial Office P.O. Box 739 129 Vista Centre Dr., Suite B Forest,VA 24551

Phone: 1.800.526.8673 Email: CCC@AACC.net WWW.AACC.NET

Christian Counseling Connection 3

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Professional Mental Health Coaching and Sexual Addiction Recovery Coaching Courses Now Available!

t

The need for biblically grounded, practical mental health support is growing. As individuals and families face increasing challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and addic tion, churches and ministries are stepping in to help. Light University is responding with two new certification programs designed to equip Christian coaches with wisdom, skill, and care to meet these needs. The Professional Mental Health Coaching (PMHC) and Sexual Addiction Recovery Coaching (SARC) certifications are now available. These flexible, online training programs are built for pastors, lay leaders, life coaches, and ministry professionals who want to walk alongside others in a supportive, ethical, and faith-informed way. Professional Mental Health Coaching (PMHC) The Professional Mental Health Coaching certification prepares students to work in sub-clinical care, which refers to support for individuals struggling with emotional, mental, or relational challenges that may not require licensed therapy but still call for guidance, structure, and encouragement. These issues often include stress, grief, burnout, life transi tions, anxiety, and discouragement.

Christian Counseling Connection 5

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Like the PMHC program, the SARC certification includes training on the scope of practice and bound aries. Coaches are taught to recognize when a client needs clinical treat ment and how to refer appropriately, ensuring that their support is both helpful and responsible. This course is ideal for those leading recovery groups, offering one-on-one coaching, or supporting men’s and women’s ministries within a church. Learn more or enroll today at www.lightuniversity.com/sexual-ad diction-recovery-coaching. Flexible Format and Scholarship Opportunities Both certification programs are self paced and entirely online. Students can begin any time and move through the material as their schedules allow. This flexibility makes these programs ideal for working professionals, pas tors, and ministry volunteers. Scholarships are available to help make both programs more accessi ble. Light University is committed to providing solid, biblically grounded training for those who feel called to care for others. Each certification is built on the trusted foundation of the AACC and Light University, with experienced instructors and a strong emphasis on spiritual integrity and practical skill. Equipping the Church to Respond These two new certifications reflect a larger movement toward more inten tional, structured care within the Church. As more people seek support for their mental, emotional, and spir itual health, the need for well-trained Christian coaches will only increase. Professional Mental Health Coaches and Sexual Addiction Recovery Coaches are uniquely posi tioned to offer hope, truth, and prac tical help to those who are hurting. These two programs provide a strong foundation for doing this work with excellence. Let us commit to build ing a care-ready church, one trained coach at a time. ;

g Professional Mental Health Coaches are trained to recognize the limits of their roles and work alongside licensed mental health providers when neces sary. They help clients set goals, learn coping skills, and stay grounded in bib lical truth. In many cases, they offer early support that helps prevent deeper crises from developing. The certification includes two core courses, PMHC 101 and 201, totaling more than 24 hours of instruction. The faculty consists of leaders from the American Association of Christian Counselors, such as Drs. Tim Clinton, Zach Clinton, Shannae Anderson, and more. Their teaching blends biblical wisdom with current research and practical tools for use in a wide range of ministry or coaching settings. Graduates earn 24 CE credits and are eligible for certification through the International Board of Christian Care (IBCC). The program also covers ethics, legal considerations, and professional boundaries, which are essential for coaches who want to serve with integrity and effectiveness in real-world min istry contexts. This certification is well-suited for those working in churches, nonprofit ministries, coaching practices, or even corporate wellness settings. It offers a clear, responsible framework for helping people navigate emotional pain while staying within the coach’s proper scope of care. Learn more or enroll today at www.lightuniversity.com/professional-men tal-health-coaching. Sexual Addiction Recovery Coaching (SARC) The Sexual Addiction Recovery Coaching certification prepares students to support individuals working through struggles with pornography, compulsive sexual behavior, and related challenges. It also equips coaches to come along side spouses and families affected by the fallout of sexual addiction. Rooted in biblical truth and evidence-based practice, the training offers a clear and compassionate approach to guiding others toward healing, restoration, and recovery. With more than 24 hours of video-based training and 24 CE credits, this program brings together leading voices in the field. Instructors include Jason VanRuler, Jim Cress, Debbie Laaser, Mike Vaughn, Crystal Renaud Day, and other experts with years of experience in recovery work, pastoral care, and counseling. Topics include the addiction cycle, shame and identity, triggers and relapse prevention, discipleship in recovery, and how to create momentum for change. Students also learn to build coaching relationships based on trust, accountability, and Christ-centered encouragement.

6 Christian Counseling Connection

SEEING GOD’S PEOPLE BEYOND OUR COGNITIVE BIAS

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Much of human behavior can be explained by two motives: we want to be right, and we want to feel good about ourselves. But the tension between these two motives makes us especially vulnerable to bias—and bias distorts our view of the world and of ourselves and can keep us from doing even what we know is right. In The Unbiased Self , social psychologist Erin Devers lays out what psychology has discovered about bias and selfishness. To truly overcome cognitive bias, we need a vision of what an unbiased self could look like, stemming from a solid sense of identity—an identity available in Christian faith.

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n Make Plans Today to Attend the 2026 AACC “Faith and Flourishing” Mega National Christian Counseling Conference Next fall, thousands of Christian counselors, coaches, pastors, and ministry leaders will gather in Dallas for a major event. The 2026 AACC “Faith and Flourishing” Mega National Christian Counseling Conference will be held from September 10th to 12th at the brand-new Loews Arlington Hotel and Convention Center. The “Faith and Flourishing” conference will also mark the beginning of the AACC’s 40th anniversa ry celebration, highlighting four decades of service to the Christian counseling and mental health com munity. This is more than a time to reflect on the past; it is an opportunity to invest in what is ahead for the field, your calling and practice, and the people you serve.

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A Format That Fits Your Personal and Professional Needs The 2026 Mega National Christian Counseling Conference offers two ways to participate, depending on your personal and professional needs. Option One: Specialization Counselor Training and Coaching Intensives. The 12-hour intensives are a good option for those who want to focus on one area of counseling or coaching. Each track runs across the main conference schedule and is led by trusted voices in the field. Intensive sessions are practical and hands-on, perfect for questions, discussion, and interaction in a smaller group setting. Option Two: Pre-conference and Conference Workshops. This path allows for maximum flexibility. Arrive early for full or half-day pre-con ference sessions, then choose from a wide range of track workshops cov ering today’s most relevant topics in professional mental healthcare and coaching. Ten professional tracks will be available, including addiction and recovery, trauma and grief, child and adolescent issues, marriage and fami ly, neuroscience, spiritual formation, biblical counseling, and more. Whether you are new to the field, a seasoned practitioner, or a coach, you will find content that speaks directly to your work. Keynote Speakers and Program Confirmed keynote speakers include Dr. Jack Graham, Senior Pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church, and Dr. George Barna, one of the most respected Christian researchers of our time. Both bring timely messages for leaders working at the intersection of faith, culture, and care. Additional speakers will be announced in the coming months. In addition to general sessions, attendees can expect dynamic worship, professional networking, and moments set aside for encouragement and reflection. Four Core Streams The AACC continues to structure its national gatherings around the follow ing four key ministry streams: 1) Counseling, 2) Recovery, 3) Marriage and Family, and 4) Professional Coaching. These focus areas shape the content and give attendees a clear path to choose sessions that align with their work, calling, and growth goals. Why It Matters As the demand for competent, biblically grounded care continues to grow, Christian counselors and leaders need spaces to connect, recharge, and sharpen their skills. The 2026 AACC “Faith and Flourishing” Mega National Christian Counseling Conference will offer just that! With a new venue, a renewed mission, and four decades of shared commitment behind it, this gathering will help set the tone for the years ahead. Mark your calendars for September 10-12, 2026, in Dallas, Texas. We look forward to seeing you there! ; As the demand for competent, biblically grounded care continues to grow, Christian counselors and leaders need spaces to connect, recharge, and sharpen their skills. The 2026 AACC “Faith and Flourishing” Mega National Christian Counseling Conference will offer just that!

Curt Thompson, M.D.

Daniel Amen, M.D.

George Barna, Ph.D.

Jack Graham, D.Min.

Karl Benzio, M.D.

Mark Crear, Ph.D.

Jennifer Ellers, M.A.

Shannae Anderson, Ph.D.

Zach Clinton, Ph.D.

Tim Clinton, Ed.D., LPC, LMFT

Sharon May, Ph.D.

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

Christian Counseling Connection 9

FROM THE PRESIDENT

PRESIDENT’S REPORT: END OF SUMMER 2025 Tim Clinton, Ed.D., LPC, LMFT, BCPCC a As summer draws to a close and we head into a new season of opportunity, I am encouraged by all God is doing through the AACC community. The momentum is strong, from new training releases and growing influ ence to a sold-out World Conference and expanded glob al outreach. I want to share a few key highlights with you as we prepare for an exciting fall together. 2025 AACC “United” World Conference – SOLD OUT The 2025 AACC “United” World Conference is officially sold out! Set for September 23-27 at the iconic Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee, this milestone event will welcome 7,000 Christian counselors, coach es, pastors, educators, and ministry leaders from all 50 states and more than 40 countries.

10 Christian Counseling Connection

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Light University: New Courses and Curriculum Our academic team continues to create clinically excellent, biblically based training for a wide range of helping profes sionals. Recent and upcoming course releases include: • Spiritual and Mental Health First Aid • Sexual Addiction Recovery Coaching • Professional Mental Health Coaching • Human Flourishing Coaching • Military and First Responder Coaching Coming Soon: • ADHD 2.0 • Neurobiology of Grief 2.0 • OCD and Scrupulosity 2.0 • Public Speaking: Built Different Academy • Treatment of Sexual Compulsivity and Partner Betrayal Trauma Certificate Program • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy • School Counseling Mental Health Coaching: A Growing Global Movement Mental health coaching continues to be one of the most impactful initiatives in AACC history. The Mental Health Coach First Responder program has now reached more than 65,000 individuals and over 30,000 churches, equip ping everyday people to respond to emotional and spir itual needs with compassion, competence, and Christ centered care. We are also excited to announce the strong launch of the Professional Mental Health Coaching (PMHC) pro gram. This advanced training track is designed for those who want to serve at a higher level of skill and prepared ness in sub-clinical roles across counseling practices, churches, schools, and community-based ministries. More than 1,250 individuals have already enrolled in this professional-level program, helping raise the standard for faith-integrated mental health support. • Adolescent Self-injury 2.0 • Attachment Trauma 2.0 • Motivational Interviewing 2.0

This marks our 20th year at Opryland and promises to be one of the most transformative gatherings in our history. We look forward to powerful times of worship, dynamic plenary sessions, robust training tracks, and meaningful connections. Attendees will experience: • 8 Mental Health Learning Institute six-hour intensives • 25 counseling and coaching training tracks • 18 nationally recognized plenary speakers • Worship events, networking, and book signings Plenary session speakers include: • Dr. Gary Chapman • Dr. Daniel Amen • Lysa TerKeurst • Bishop Kelvin Cobaris • Bob Goff • Jennie Allen • Dr. Henry Cloud • Ambassador Sam Brownback NEW in 2025: Two Groundbreaking Symposiums 1. Human Flourishing 2.0 Clinical Symposium – Thursday, September 25th Led by: • Tyler VanderWeele, Ph.D. (Harvard University) • Harold Koenig, M.D. (Duke University) • Byron Johnson, Ph.D. (Baylor University) This session will explore the latest global research on the relationship between faith, well-being, and human flourishing. • 50 pre-conference workshops • 175 professional workshops

2. Religious Liberty Symposium – Friday, September 26th from 7:30 to 9:00 PM

Hosted by Ambassador Sam Brownback, this plenary event will explore today’s challenges and opportunities in religious freedom and the future of faith-based mental healthcare.

Christian Counseling Connection 11

FROM THE PRESIDENT

We recently introduced the free Spiritual and Mental Health First Aid (SMHFA) program to further support widespread access to quality training. This course pro vides a well-rounded approach to equip anyone with essential mental and spiritual first aid tools. Since its launch in May 2025, more than 8,000 people have joined, reflecting the growing need for simple, practical training in faith-based crisis care. Walk Worthy Ministry Launch This summer marked the official launch of Walk Worthy, a new ministry of AACC designed to help the Church walk in personal integrity, emotional wholeness, and spiritu al strength. At the heart of this movement is a clear and urgent call to pursue sexual integrity and freedom in a culture saturated by moral confusion and compromise. Led by Joshua Broome, a former adult film actor whose life was radically transformed by God’s grace, Walk Worthy gives voice to a generation hungry for healing and hope. His powerful testimony has become a catalyst for honest conversations and courageous decisions across churches, conferences, and communities. Through biblically grounded teaching, practical resources, and real-life stories of redemption, Walk Worthy equips both men and women to confront hidden struggles, break free from cycles of shame, and live with integrity that honors Christ. Our prayer is that this initiative will ignite a renewed movement of truth, purity, and purpose within the Body of Christ. Advocacy and Religious Liberty For the past three years, AACC has been honored to work at the intersection of faith and public policy, advocating for religious liberty and protecting faith-based mental health education and services. Our leadership continues to engage with national policymakers, including the White House Faith Office, to help shape a future where Christian mental health professionals, counselors, and coaches are protected, equipped, and empowered to serve without compromise. We have contributed to key documents, participated in strategy meetings, and helped advance national conversa tions around conscience rights, professional freedom, and the role of faith in mental health. In an increasingly com plex cultural landscape, AACC remains committed to being a trusted voice and steady advocate for biblical truth, clini cal excellence, and the freedom to integrate faith into care. Looking Ahead: 2026 “Faith and Flourishing” Mega National Christian Counseling Conference Mark your calendars for September 10-12, 2026, and join us at the brand-new Loews Arlington Hotel and Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, for the AACC “Faith and Flourishing” Mega National Christian Counseling Conference. This special gathering will launch the AACC’s 40th anniversary celebration and will feature dynamic

speakers, expanded training tracks, and a powerful vision for the future of Christian counseling and coaching. Celebrating Nearly 40 Years of Impact Since 1986, the AACC has led the way in equipping Christian counselors, coaches, pastors, and ministry leaders to bring hope and healing to a hurting world. We have trained over 10,000 leaders in crisis response, edu cated nearly 300,000 students through Light University, hosted more than 200 national conferences, and sold over 100,000 copies of the Care and Counsel Bible . From 125 CounselTalk Webinars to Extraordinary Women events influencing more than 500,000 women, our reach has been broad and our mission clear. As we look to the future, we remain committed to advancing biblically sound, clinically excellent care for individuals, families, churches, and communities around the globe. Thank you for being part of this growing movement. We love being a part of your life and ministry! ;

Tim Clinton, Ed.D., LPC, LMFT, BCPCC, is president of the American Associa tion of Christian Counselors (AACC), the world’s largest and most diverse Christian counseling association. He also serves as Executive Director of the Global Center for Human Flourish ing and Professor Emeritus at Liberty University. Dr. Clinton is president of Light Counseling, a national clinical counseling organization that provides Christ-centered behavioral healthcare for individuals, families, and American heroes. For seven years, Dr. Clinton extended his ministry as co-host of Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk, heard on more than 1,400 radio outlets daily, and now hosts a weekend television program, “Sunday the Road Forward,” seen on Real America’s Voice News streaming service and numerous plat forms. Licensed as a professional counselor and a marriage and family therapist, Dr. Clinton is recognized as a world leader on mental health and rela tionship issues. He spends much of his time working with Christian leaders and professional athletes. Together, Dr. Clinton and his son, Dr. Zach Clinton, host a new radio broadcast and podcast titled “Life, Love, Faith, & Family,” focusing on mental health and rela tionships. Dr. Clinton has authored or edited more than 30 books.

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AACC 2026 MEGA NATIONAL CHRISTIAN COUNSELING CONFERENCE

INSERT QR CODE HERE

SCAN TO REGISTER

SEPTEMBER 10-12, 2026

Curt Thompson M.D. Center for Being Known

Daniel Amen M.D. Amen Clinics

FULL PAGE AD George Barna Ph.D. Barna Group Jack Graham D.Min. Prestonwood Baptist Church

Karl Benzio M.D. AACC

Mark Crear Ph.D. In The Zone

Jennifer Ellers

Shannae Anderson Ph.D. AACC

Zach Clinton Ph.D. AACC

Harold Koenig M.D. AACC

Sharon May Ph.D. Safe Haven Relationship Center

Ron Hawkins Ed.D., D.Min., LPC AACC

M.A. AACC

AND MORE...

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CLINICAL PRACTICE

The Value of Reparative Intelligence in Christian Soul Care from the Society for Christian Psychology CHRISTIAN PSYCH NOTES Nicolene L. Joubert, Ph.D.

t The nature of intelligence has been keenly investigated and defined in the field of psychology during the 20th century. It was first defined as a singular concept referring to cognitive intelligence, but it has expanded to include multiple intelligences. The question arises about the role of intelligence in restorative justice and healing past and present relational wounds. Reparative intelligence (RI) is a concept that refers to the type of intelligence necessary to achieve restorative justice. In this article, the intersection between reparative, emotional, and spiritual intelligence is explored and considered as a framework to address past hurts and dysfunctional relational patterns with the aim of seeking restoration for oneself and others. Haman (2025) defined reparative intelligence as the

process of seeking restoration for oneself while facilitating the restoration of other people. He stated it “… is discov ering the truth about one’s childhood and life, seeking restoration for oneself, and facilitating the restoration of persons, systems, and environments through care and with compassion” (p. 1). Reparative intelligence is rooted in the psychodynamic of object-relations theories and reflects the quality of internalized and actual relationships. The RI concept expands the idea of rationality and cognitive intelligence as it draws from object-relation theories. It resonates with the work of Gardner, who has teased out the idea of intelligence and logic to include various skills and capabilities, resulting in the theory of multiple intelligences (MI) (Gardner, 2011; Morgan, 2021).

Christian Counseling Connection 15

CLINICAL PRACTICE

The postulation of MI was based on the outcome of a research project that focused on human potential, which contributed to the writing of the book, Frames of Mind . In this book, Gardner documented the connec tion between cognition and biological and behavioral sciences, stating that it is the ability to solve problems in more than one culture (Morgan, 2021). He argued that an individual possesses more than one type of intelligence that goes beyond the traditional measure of intelligence, indicating several types of capacities (Morgan, 2021). Gardner (2011, p. 6) further mentioned that “virtues of feeling, faith and courage also have been leitmotifs over the centuries” in the search to describe intelligence. They have even sometimes been contrasted with the quest for knowledge. In addition, he posited that each intelli gence represents different ways individuals process information, learn, and develop potential. The initial intelligences included “linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinaesthetic, naturalistic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal intelligence” (Davis et al., 2011, p. 485). The application of the MI theory contributed to increased innovation in the field of education and a deepened understanding of intelligence across cultures. The idea of multiple intelligences is further present in emotional, cultural, spiritual, and reparative intelligence concepts. These concepts have been explored in their application to mental health. For example, the utilization of reparative intelligence could help clients heal relational wounds and realize their human potential within the framework of a Christian worldview. Successful implementation of reparative intelli gence requires both emotional intelligence and spiritual intelligence. Emotional intelligence (EQ) is defined as the ability to recognize, understand, manage, and utilize emotions effectively in oneself and oth ers. Lang (2024) emphasized that EQ is crucial for achieving success in both personal and professional domains. The key components in EQ are self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, and empathy (Lang, 2024). The central importance of EQ for spiritual growth and conforming to the image of Christ has been highlighted by Bage (2024). Several emotions are central to a Biblical EQ and relate to developing an identity in Christ, such as love, compassion, motivation to please God, and seeking inti macy with Christ. Scripture references include Proverbs 3:5, John 16:33, Galatians 5:22-23, and Philippians 4:11-16. The application of Biblical EQ principles leads to a greater capacity to show love and godliness (Bage, 2025). Spirituality is described as a subjective experience associated with the essence of life, interpersonal relationships, relation with the environ ment, and specifically with transcendental thinking. It forms the founda tion for spiritual intelligence, defined as the capacity for transcendence and the adaptive application of spirituality, which means the ability to use spirituality in everyday problem-solving. It is the type of intelligence that helps people find meaning and purpose in life. Emmons (2000) suggested five dimensions for Spiritual Intelligence (SQ): the capacity for transcendence, the ability to have a higher state of spiritual conscious ness, the ability to consider the sacred in everyday life, the capability to solve life problems through spirituality, and the ability to engage in virtu ous behaviors. Reparative intelligence utilizes spiritual intelligence in the appli cation of spiritual truths to steer and motivate reparative actions. It is thus defined as the capability of utilizing spiritual beliefs to solve life problems. RI could be applied to achieve therapeutic goals that are articulated in the restoration of past hurts and the healing of dysfunc

The idea of multiple

intelligences is further present in emotional, cultural, spiritual, and reparative intelligence concepts. These concepts have been explored in their application to mental health.

s

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tional relational patterns. It also applies to the healing of emotional wounds in oneself and others. In this process, emotional and spiritual intelligence are both prominent abilities that could facilitate and deepen the healing pro cess. In addition, it fosters a deeper understanding of how faith can inform and enhance well-being. Reparative intelligence refers to a concept that inte grates the principles of emotional intelligence, especially self-awareness and empathy, with Christian faith and values to facilitate soul care, inner healing, and spiritual growth. Restoration from past hurts is essential in de veloping one’s potential embedded in MI and achieving future success. Haman (2025) identified several key ele ments in RI, such as witnessing suffering by being present and demonstrating care. Secondly, we need to be moved to action to alleviate suffering. The action is based on deep compassion, leading to a third element, fostering compas sionate emotional connections and a deeper level of care and restoration. The fourth element is based on spiritual intelligence and encompasses kindness, generosity, and open-heart edness. This embodies God’s caring and nurturing nature. The fifth element is to maintain a restorative focus and apply reparative intelligence to restore relationships, systems, and environments through acts of care. Finally, it is to engage in mutual recognition of pain and hurt and foster relationships based on mutual trust and care (Ha man, 2025). A biblical example of reparative intelligence is found in the story of Naomi and Ruth. Naomi lost her sons, and her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah, lost their husbands while sojourning in Moab. Naomi decided to return to Israel as a widow and encouraged her daughters-in-law to stay in Moab and find new husbands (this step demon strated the ability to witness the suffering of her daugh ters-in-law, as well as her own). The care she demonstrat ed toward her daughters-in-law moved her to the action of releasing them from any responsibility toward her and making a choice that could benefit them for their future. The action led to deep compassion for her and Ruth, who made a wise decision to stay with her. They fostered a compassionate connection and a deeper level of care and restoration. Both demonstrated spiritual intelligence and wisdom in their kindness toward each other. Eventual ly, this led to further restoration and restorative justice when Boas chose to marry Ruth, fulfilling the role of a

kinsman-redeemer and ensuring that Elimelech’s lineage continues through their son, Obed. The act of reparative intelligence, compassion, and redemption is central to the narrative that ultimately leads to the lineage of King David and Jesus Christ. By all accounts, diverse abilities/intelligences should be integrated into a Christian counseling approach to facilitate recovery from past hurts, address relational diffi culties, facilitate relational healing, manage stress-related problems, and treat trauma-induced illnesses. ;

Nicolene L. Joubert, Ph.D., is a Counseling Psychologist and an Adjunct Professor of Psychology and Christian Counseling at Houston Christian University in Texas.

References Davis, K., Christodoulou, J., Seider, S., & Gardner, H. (2011). The theory of multiple intelligences. Emmons, R.A. (2000). Is spirituality intelligence? Motivation, cognition, and the psychology of ultimate concern. The International Journal for the Psychology of Religion, 10 (1), 3-26. (PDF) Spiritual intelligence: Aspects, components and guidelines to promote it. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/280923241_Spiritual_ Intelligence_Aspects_Components_and_Guidelines_to_Promote_ It#fullTextFileContent. Gardner, H. (2011). Frames of mind (3rd ed.). Hachette. 9780465024346. https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/. Gardner, H., & Moran, S. (2006). The science of multiple intelligences theory: A response to Lynn Waterhouse. Educational Psychologist, 41 (4):227-232. Haman, J. (2025). Cultivating reparative intelligence in a care-less world. Pastoral Psychology. Lang, L. (2024). The role of emotional intelligence in the therapeutic pro cess of counselling psychology. Morgan, H. (2021). Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory and his ideas on promoting creativity. In F. Reisman (Ed.). Celebrating trials and trailblazers: Who’s who in creativity research and related fields. Pinto, C.T., Veiga, F., Guedes, L. ú, Pinto, S., & Nunes, R. (2023). Models of spiritual intelligence interventions: A scoping review. Nurse Education in Practice, 73, 103829. https://10.1016/j.nepr.2023.103829.

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INNOVATIVE THOUGHT & PRACTICE

Bill Gaultiere, Ph.D., and Kristi Gaultiere, Psy.D. FREEDOM FROM SELF-SABOTAGE

a As counselors and pastors, we have found that everyone needs to know they are deeply loved, but most people struggle with self-judging. Their inner attitude or self-talk may sound like this: “You shouldn’t feel this… You’re bur dening people with your needs… Don’t be a complainer… Don’t cry… You’ll get hurt… Stay in control….” Rejecting their emotional needs leaves them feeling unloved and

sabotages their mental health and spiritual growth. In your counseling practice or ministry, it is essential to realize that even as your clients or church attendees seek your help or cry out to God in prayer, their inner judge often shames them and spoils the empathy and care you provide. For them to benefit from your help, they need to develop self-empathy.

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We also have internal critics. Thankfully, for ourselves and the peo ple we care for, we have learned how to counteract self-judging with self-empathy. What Is Self-empathy? I (Kristi) had a favorite cat named Charlie. He delighted in my affection and had a special bond with me. Often, he would sit in my lap, knead on me with his paws, and purr as he did with his mother when he was a kitten. He was self-soothing and had internalized the comfort of nurs ing, which he was replicating. Often, children do the same thing with their mothers, fathers, or other caregivers. They use a pacifier, blanket, the name “mommy,” or a picture to help them reconnect with mater nal comfort and security as they develop self-empathy. Adults need self-empathy, too; it is how we overcome self-judging and other resis tances to grace. Self-empathy strengthens us to be able to show empa thy and love to other people. You may not have heard the term “self-empathy.” Let’s unpack a working definition of giving empathy to yourself: Self-empathy is agree ing with empathy from God or a person you trust to appreciate that you are deeply loved by God . In times of emotional distress or need, self-em pathy is like an oxygen mask. If you are on a plane with your child and the cabin pressure drops, you need to put your oxygen mask on first to help your child put on their oxygen mask safely. If we do not care for ourselves, we cannot care for others very well. Self-empathy is not an independent self-help process but an agree ment with God’s grace . Healthy self-empathy for your clients or those you minister to looks like them trusting in your empathetic care and appreciating that God cares for them through your compassion. One time, when David and his men returned to their camp at Ziklag, they found it destroyed by fire, and their wives and children were taken captive by enemies. They wept uncontrollably until they had no strength left. As the leader, David was in despair, “… but David encouraged him self in the Lord his God” (1 Samuel 30:6, KJV). He trusted the Lord for the comfort and strength he needed, and then he was able to rise up and lead his men to rescue their families. That is self-empathy. David, in his psalms of lament, shows us how to use self-empathy to agree with God’s grace. The Lord Jesus baked the psychology of self-empathy into His great commandment to love God “… with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength” and “… Love others as much as you love yourself ” (Mark 12:30 31, CEV, emphasis added). Understanding our emotions and caring for our needs through self-empathy is integral to loving ourselves as God loves us and strengthens us to love God and others well. Benefits of Self-empathy When the people we are helping learn to develop self-empathy, it improves their mental health and spiritual maturity. Furthermore, as counselors and pastors, practicing self-empathy protects us from empa thy fatigue and burnout. There have been several psychological studies done that show significant benefits of self-compassion (relating to our selves with empathy and kindness), including: • Decreased depression and anxiety 1 • Increased motivation, healthy behavior, and resilient coping 2 • Happiness, optimism, and life satisfaction 3 • Forgiveness and altruism 4 • Relational connection in romantic relationships 5

i

If we do not care for ourselves, we cannot care for others very well.

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Helping Others Grow in Self-empathy The following are three steps we have used in counseling and ministry to help people cultivate self-empathy and its benefits: 1. Befriending emotions. Henri Nouwen, author of many books on Christian spirituality, taught that the way to overcome distressed emotions is not to fight against them, deny them, or judge them as weak and problematic but to befriend our emotions . 6 To be friendly to emotions is to be patient, gentle, and accepting of them. It is to listen to emotions and learn from them (without being con trolled by them). When you befriend others’ emotions, it shows them how to befriend their own emotions. 2. Resisting self-judgment. When caring for people, it is important to listen to their inner attitudes toward their own emotions, struggles, and needs and notice any ten dencies toward self-judgment, which is a primary form of unconscious resistance to receiving the care they need. If you do not point this out, you will become exhausted from trying to get through to them. It is vital to address this gently and in collaboration. For instance, you might say, “It seems you’re judging your emotions as bad, making it hard for you to receive my empathy. Do you notice this? Or how would you describe your experience?” When they name their resistance, set it aside to allow them to receive your empathy, energy, and insight, which can be transfor mative. 3. Appreciating Jesus’ empathy. With empathy and compassion, Jesus attuned to the emotions of the widow of Nain, who was crying because she had lost her only son (Luke 7:11–16). When Thomas felt left out and was strug gling with doubt, Jesus felt for him and made a special visit, offering for him to touch the nail prints in his hands (John 20:24-27). For all of us, Jesus is our great high priest who is eager to “empathize with our weaknesses” (Hebrews 4:15, NIV). He sees into the hearts of the people you help and calls them “friends” (John 15:15). Appreciating Jesus’ empathy is the best way for the people you help to grow

in self-empathy because the Spirit of Jesus is with them between sessions and always. He feels and cares for them so they know they are deeply loved. ;

Bill Gaultiere, Ph.D. , is a psycholo gist and pastor, and Kristi Gaultiere, Psy.D. , is a therapist. They are the founders of Soul Shepherding, a non-profit ministry that features five day retreats to help pastors, counselors, and others go deeper with Jesus in emotional health and loving relation ships. Participants can earn a Certificate in Spiritual Direction or a Certificate in Coaching. Bill and Kristi are the authors of several books, including Deeply Loved: Receiving and Reflecting God’s Great Empathy for You .

Endnotes 1 MacBeth, A., & Gumley, A. (2012). Exploring compassion: A meta-anal ysis of the association between self-compassion and psychopathology, Clinical Psychology Review, 32 (6):545-52. 2 Albertson, E., Neff, K., & Dill-Shackleford, K. (2014). Self-compassion and body dissatisfaction in women: A randomized controlled trial of a brief meditation intervention, Mindfulness, 6 (3):1-11. 3 Neff, K., Rude, S., & Kirkpatrick, K. (2007). An examination of self-com passion in relation to positive psychological functioning and personality traits, Journal of Research in Personality, 41 (4):908-16. 4 Neff K., & Pommier, E. (2013). The relationship between self-compas sion and other-focused concern among college undergraduates, com munity adults, and practicing meditators, Self and Identity, 12 (2):160-76. 5 Neff, K., & Beretvas, S. (2013). The role of self-compassion in romantic relationships, Self and Identity, 12 (1):78-98. 6 Nouwen, H. (1996). The inner voice of love: A journey through anguish to freedom (New York: Image Books), 42-43.

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