CCC 28-1

When Clients Need Help in a Hurry: Neuroscience-based Tools for Immediate Relief Page 18

Choosing Joy Page 30

A Christian-centered Approach to Eating Disorders Page 15

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

Volume 28 | Issue 1

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

1 10 15 18 22 26 30 32 36

Pastoral Care News & Notes Pass It On

AACC 2026 MEGA NATIONAL CHRISTIAN COUNSELING CONFERENCE

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o On September 23-27, more than 7,000 Christian counselors, coaches, pas tors, and ministry leaders from all 50 states and nearly 40 countries gath ered at the magnificent Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Convention Center in Nashville for the 2025 “UNITED” AACC World Conference for one mutual purpose: to provide clinically excellent, biblically based training to help the Christian caregiving community address the mental health crisis God’s way. This five-day event featured six Mental Health and Coaching Learning Institute intensives, 50 three-hour pre-conference workshops, 175 track workshops, poster sessions, and powerful plenary addresses from Dr. Henry Cloud, Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Curt Thompson, Bob Goff, Dr. Siang-Yang Tan, Dr. Gary Chapman, Jennie Allen, Lysa TerKeurst, Chad Robichaux, John Sanders, Jentezen Franklin, Dr. Tim Clinton, and many more. God’s Blessings Evident at the 2025 UNITED World Conference

Curt Thompson, M.D. Center for Being Known

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Jack Graham, D.Min. Prestonwood Baptist Church

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Shannae Anderson, Ph.D. AACC

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Tim Clinton, Ed.D., LPC, LMFT AACC

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The opening night celebration, “Let’s Get It Started,” launched the week with worship led by GRAMMY® award-winning artist, Chris Tomlin. AACC President, Dr. Tim Clinton, opened the event with a clarion call for Christian counselors, coaches, and ministry leaders to unite, summon courage, and answer the call to serve a hurting world with compassion and truth. Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The 5 Love Languages , shared his signature insight on building healthy relationships that reflect God’s love. Chad Robichaux and John Sanders then introduced the “Helping Our Heroes” FLOURISH Campaign, a new initiative to provide care and com munity for military service members, veterans, and first responders. The stage throughout the week featured some of the most respected and inspiring voices in ministry and mental health, including Jennie Allen, Lysa TerKeurst, Dr. John Townsend, Dr. Henry Cloud, Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Curt Thompson, Bob Goff, and others who encouraged attendees with messages of faith, hope, and perseverance. Each morning began with powerful sessions led by Tim Timberlake, Kelvin Cobaris, and Greg Surratt, setting a tone of spiritual renewal and encouragement for the day ahead.

The conference also included moments of great honor and gratitude. The AACC paid tribute to Dr. James C. Dobson, who entered his eternal home in August 2025 at age 89. His son, Ryan Dobson, accepted the recognition on behalf of his father as the crowd rose to their feet in heartfelt appreciation for a life that shaped generations. Ron Deal, M.MFT., was presented with the James C. Dobson Award for Excellence in Marriage and Family Research and Advocacy. In another deeply touching moment, the AACC honored Dr. Gregory L. Jantz, a longtime friend of the organization and a pioneer in whole-person care. His family received the AACC President’s Award post humously, recognizing his extraordinary life, legacy, and contribution to Christian counseling around the world. Award Recipients • Paris Finner-Williams Award for Excellence in the Advancement of Cultural Sensitivity and Competence – Fred Gingrich, D.Min. • James C. Dobson Award for Excellence in Marriage and Family Research and Advocacy – Ron Deal, M.MFT. • AACC Caregiver Awards for Excellence in Christian Caregiving – Shannae Anderson, Ph.D.; David King, D.S.W.; Jim Sells, Ph.D. • Gary Collins Award for Excellence in Research and Scholarship in Christian Counseling – Everett L. Worthington, Jr., Ph.D. • President’s Award for Outstanding Influence and Leadership in the Development and Advancement of Christian Counseling Around the World – Gregory L. Jantz, Ph.D. (Posthumously) • James E. Clinton Award for Excellence in Pastoral Care and Ministry – Greg Surratt • Frank Minirth Award for Excellence in Christian Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine – Timothy R. Jennings, M.D. • Mark Laaser Award for Excellence in Scholarship, Research, and Practice in the Study of Pornography, Sex Addiction, and Healing – Debbie Laaser, M.A. • David Stoop Award for Excellence in Scholarship in Family Therapy and Practice – Michelle Watson Canfield, Ph.D.; Ken Canfield, Ph.D. • Larry Crabb Award for Spiritual Formation, Soul Care, and Mental Health – Ron Hawkins, Ed.D., D.Min.

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o • Archibald D. Hart Christian Counseling Pioneer Award for Excellence in Research and Scholarship in Training and Educating the Next Generation of Leaders in Mental Health and Caring for Others – Gary J. Oliver, Th.M., Ph.D. • ICCA Coach of the Year Award – Johnny Parker, D.S.L. • Michael Lyles Award for Excellence in Clinical Practice – E. John Kuhnley, M.D. • Ethics and Advocacy Award – Jeanneane Maxon, J.D., Esq. • Gregory L. Jantz Award for Whole Person Care – Donna Gibbs, Ph.D. On Thursday evening, musical artist, Micah Tyler, and comedian, Ted Cunningham, kicked off the “Rock the Block” celebration for attendees. Light University also hosted a graduation ceremony to celebrate graduates from the Biblical Counseling, Mental Health Coaching, and Professional Life Coaching diploma programs. More than 225 graduates walked across the stage to receive their diplomas from Dr. Tim Clinton and heard a special commencement address from Dr. Jay Strack. Over 1,200 family members and friends gathered to celebrate the graduates’ academic achievements and pray for their contin ued impact in ministry and service. On Friday evening, the “Night of Joy” Dinner Theater was held, a favorite among conference attendees, allowing them to dress up and enjoy an evening of laughter and inspiration. The event featured comedian, Dennis Swanberg, and a powerful time of worship led by Katy Nichole. The night also featured a free Religious Liberty Symposium for attendees, led by Ambassador Sam Brownback, who facilitated a thoughtful discussion on the importance of pro tecting faith and freedom within the Christian counseling community. On Saturday morning, a special Keynote Religious Liberty Symposium con tinued this important conversation, featuring Ambassador Sam Brownback, Paula White-Cain, Jennifer Korn, and AACC’s own, Drs. Shannae Anderson and Mercy Connors. Together, they provided valuable insight and encourage ment for Christian counselors and ministry leaders on how to navigate issues of faith, freedom, and cultural engagement with courage and conviction. The UNITED Exhibit Hall featured leading publishers, treatment centers, clinics, colleges, universities, ministries, and organizations, all dedicated to resourcing Christian counselors and coaches. The AACC Bookstore debuted more than 15 new continuing education courses and a wide selection of pro fessional resources. AACC Publishing released two new workbooks, including Hope & Healing for Anxiety: A Guide to Manage Stress and Overcome Anxiety by Linda Mintle, Ph.D., and Growth & Flourishing Through Forgiveness: Finding Freedom and Grace by Everett L. Worthington, Jr., Ph.D. “The 2025 UNITED World Conference was one of the most powerful and Spirit-filled gatherings we have ever experienced. From the worship and the Word to the clinical training and heartfelt connection, God’s presence was unmistakable. Thousands came to be refreshed, equipped, and reminded that He is still working miracles through His people. Only eternity will reveal the full impact of what God did here. The AACC continues to grow and expand in influence around the world, and we give God all the glory,” said AACC President, Dr. Tim Clinton. Save the date and do not miss your chance to attend the next AACC event, the 2026 AACC Mega National Christian Counseling Conference , “Faith and Flourishing,” with a special focus on neuroscience, brain health, attachment, and human flourishing. Join us September 10-12, 2026 , at the Loews Hotel in Arlington, Texas. Then, mark your calendars for the 2027 “Goodness of God” AACC World Conference , celebrating 40 years of min istry, September 7-11, 2027 , at Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, Florida. We hope to see you there! ;

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 2020.

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Caring for Those Who Serve Military service members, veterans, and first responders live with pressures that very few fully understand. The emotional and spiritual toll of trauma, moral injury, and loss often lingers long after the uniform is retired. The new Military and First Responder Mental Health Coaching (MFRC) program equips students to walk beside these men and women with compassion, practical tools, and clinical understanding anchored in faith. The two-course program, MFRC 101 and MFRC 201, provides a foundation in trauma-informed care, resilience, and recovery. Students will learn from respected voices such as Dr. Tim Murphy, former U.S. Congressman and clinical psychologist; Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, retired U.S. Army Ranger and author of On Killing and On Combat , known for his work on the psychology of warfare and resilience; Dr. Harold Koenig, a leading researcher in faith and health at Duke University; and Dr. Shannae Anderson, trauma psychologist

Light University, in partnership with the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC), has launched two new certifica tion programs that meet a growing national need: the Military and First Responder Mental Health Coaching (MFRC) program and the Human Flourishing Coaching (HFC) program. Each is designed to train men and women to offer bib lically-grounded, evidence-based support to a world in need of hope and healing.

Christian Counseling Connection 5

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and author. The program prepares coaches to under stand the real challenges faced by those who serve and respond with practical, biblically-grounded coaching skills and care. The Pathway to Flourishing The Human Flourishing Coaching (HFC) certification introduces mental health professionals, coaches, and ministry leaders to an emerging field that blends bibli cal wisdom with current research in positive psycholo gy. The program provides a framework for helping indi viduals lead healthy, purposeful lives rooted in faith. The certification comprises two courses, HFC 101 and HFC 201, which cover the theology and science of human flourishing, along with practical strategies for spiritual and emotional growth. Students will learn from world-renowned experts, including Dr. Tyler VanderWeele, Director of Harvard’s Human Flourishing Program; Dr. Harold Koenig, one of the world’s lead ing researchers on spirituality and health; Dr. Everett L. Worthington, Jr., a pioneer in forgiveness research; Dr. Curt Thompson, psychiatrist and author; Dr. Byron Johnson, Founding Director of the Institute for Studies of Religion at Baylor University; and Dr. Tim Clinton, President of the AACC. These instructors explore six key domains of human flourishing: purpose, character, relationships, happi ness, health, and financial stability. Each topic is exam ined through a distinctly Christian perspective, inte grating biblical truth with scientific insight. Graduates will be equipped to help individuals, churches, and communities pursue a balanced life marked by spiritu al depth, emotional resilience, and personal growth. Equipping the Called Both the MFRC and HFC programs reflect the mission of Light University and the AACC: to equip believ ers to address today’s mental health challenges with excellence, integrity, and compassion. They also con nect directly to the Helping Our Heroes FLOURISH

Campaign, introduced at the 2025 “UNITED” AACC World Conference, which emphasizes whole-person care for service members, first responders, and their families. Students who complete these programs gain both practical skills and a renewed sense of calling. They will be prepared to serve others with confidence, offer ing real help grounded in Scripture and supported by sound research. A Vision for Impact Dr. Tim Clinton, President of the AACC and Light University, said, “We are seeing a mental health crisis across our nation, especially among those who serve and protect. At the same time, people everywhere are searching for meaning and direction. These courses meet that need with truth and compassion. We want to raise up a generation of coaches and caregivers who are equipped to help others heal, grow, and flourish in their faith.” Light University’s Military and First Responder Mental Health Coaching and Human Flourishing Coaching programs are open to counselors, coaches, pastors, ministry leaders, and anyone with a heart to serve. Both programs are offered entirely online, allowing students to learn at their own pace while con necting with a network of Christian professionals from around the world. Full-tuition scholarships are also available in a limited number! Join the Movement Enrollment is now open. Graduates of these programs will be part of a growing community dedicated to bringing hope, strength, and healing to those they serve. To learn more or to register, visit: Military and First Responder Mental Health Coaching and Human Flourishing Coaching on the Light University website (lightuniversity.com) . Together, we can help others find restoration and purpose through the truth and power of God’s Word. ;

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A little compassion changes everything.

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a Helping Our Heroes FLOURISH Campaign Unveiled! At the 2025 “UNITED” AACC World Conference in Nashville, Chad Robichaux, founder of the Mighty Anchored in faith-informed care and proven training, the Alliance empow ers churches, service organizations, and community partners to provide holistic, evidence-based support. Together, we strengthen families, renew communities, and help America’s heroes and their families flourish. The mission of the Human Flourishing Alliance is to move beyond mental health alone and advance a fuller vision of human flourishing: hope, healing, wellness, strong families, and moral grounding. Central to this mission is widening the circle of care to include churches and faith-based organiza tions, equipping them to stand alongside America’s heroes and play an active role in meeting their spiritual, emotional, mental, physical, and relational needs. By empowering congregations and community partners, the Alliance ensures that care is accessible, scalable, and rooted in the communities where families live.

Oaks Foundation, joined John Sanders, CEO of LUKE Staffing, to announce the launch of the Helping Our Heroes FLOURISH Campaign. This major initiative, created in partnership with the AACC, LUKE Staffing, and LOGOS, marks the beginning of the Human Flourishing Alliance, a nation wide movement to restore hope, strengthen families, and help America’s heroes thrive. The Human Flourishing Alliance is a national coalition that restores lives and creates path ways to flourishing for those who serve and sacrifice for our country.

The launch comes at a critical time. Across the nation, service members, veterans, and first responders are facing the lasting effects of trauma, stress, and moral injury. Too many struggle in silence. The Human Flourishing Alliance seeks to change that by linking professional mental healthcare pro viders and trained coaches with trusted faith and community networks. This approach ensures that support reaches the heart as well as the mind, provid ing care that is personal, local, and lasting.

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The Church has always stood beside those who serve. This partnership represents a powerful new way to meet their needs with care that heals the whole person— body, mind, and spirit. — Tim Clinton

HERO Council Members •

LUKE Staffing, a long-time health care partner to the U.S. government, brings decades of experience in med ical and behavioral health staffing and coordination. LOGOS will pro vide the technological and operation al infrastructure to help expand the Alliance’s impact, connecting faith based and professional care systems nationwide. Together, these partners are working to develop a scalable model of holistic care for veterans and their families. Dr. Tim Clinton, President of the AACC, expressed his support for the effort, saying, “The Church has always stood beside those who serve. This partnership represents a power ful new way to meet their needs with care that heals the whole person— body, mind, and spirit.” 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 mili tary personnel, veterans, federal law enforcement personnel, and their families. It ensures all care, training, and partnerships are evidence-based, ethically sound, spiritually integrated, and promote human flourishing.

Ben Allison, M.B.A., J.D. – AACC

• Kenneth M. Alo, M.D. – United Hearts Bring Us Souls Foundation • Sam Bailey, Ph.D. – Senior Pastor, Twin Lakes Baptist Church/TPUSA Faith Chapter Leader • Tim Clinton, Ed.D. – President, AACC • Zach Clinton, Ph.D. – AACC • Bishop Kelvin Cobaris – New Life Church International, Plant City, FL • Jentezen Franklin – Senior Pastor, Free Chapel • Ron Hawkins, Ed.D., D.Min. – Liberty University and AACC • Byron Johnson, Ph.D. – Baylor University • Harold Koenig, M.D. – Duke University School of Medicine • Bill McCarthy – CEO, LOGOS • Tim Murphy, Ph.D. – Former U.S. Congressman, Clinical Psychologist, Author • Chad Robichaux – Founder, Mighty Oaks Foundation • John Sanders – CEO, LUKE Staffing • Fr. Charles Sikorsky, J.D., J.C.L. – Divine Mercy University • Major General Tom Solhjem – U.S. Army, Retired, Former Army Chief of Chaplains • Matthew Stanford, Ph.D. – Hope and Healing Center & Institute/ Baylor College of Medicine • Jay Strack, Ph.D. – Student Leadership University • Tyler VanderWeele, Ph.D. – Harvard University • Jennifer Wortham, Dr.P.H. – Harvard University This is a pivotal moment for our nation’s heroes. Too many face trauma and stress in silence. We are seeking churches, service organizations, commu nity partners, academic institutions, and other organizations that possess the necessary networks and solutions to scale, who share our desire to serve and ensure that no hero is left behind. To learn more or to get involved, visit HFAlliance.org . Together, we can strengthen families, renew communities, and help America’s heroes find hope, healing, and a path to flourishing. ;

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

ANSWERING THE CALL TO HELP AMERICA’S HEROES FLOURISH Tim Clinton, Ed.D., LPC, LMFT, BCPCC

e Every day across America, men and women step into harm’s way so the rest of us can live in safety and free dom. They wear uniforms, they take oaths, and they carry the weight of responsibility that most of us will never fully understand. These are our warfighters, sol diers, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and count less others who serve quietly and faithfully. For many of them, the most difficult battles come after the mission ends. The uniform comes off, but the

memories do not. Trauma, moral injury, sleepless nights, and the long shadow of stress and loss often follow them home. Some carry those burdens silently until the pain becomes too much to bear. And it does not just affect them—spouses, children, and family members often carry the unseen weight of that service, too. Homes can feel the strain of stress, distance, and emotional exhaus tion. The ripple effect is real, and it reaches into every part of family life.

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

At the AACC, we hear these stories every day. Counselors, pastors, and ministry leaders come to us seeking help and resources, wanting to know how to competently and compassionately care for the men and women who have served. The pain is real, and the need is great. These are heroes, but they are also human. They need our help, our care, and our compassion. For me, this work is also personal. My dad, James E. Clinton, was a pastor and a World War II veteran. That is why the Helping Our Heroes FLOURISH Campaign is so close to my heart. At our recent “UNITED” AACC World Conference in Nashville, we stood together to launch this new partnership between the AACC, LUKE Staffing, and LOGOS. My good friends, Chad Robichaux, founder of the Mighty Oaks Foundation, and John Sanders, CEO of LUKE Staffing, joined me in announcing what we are call ing the Human Flourishing Alliance. This is not another short-term program. It is a national movement to ensure our heroes and their families receive the help they deserve and the care that meets the needs of the mind, body, and spirit. The Need is Real The statistics are sobering. On average, 17.6 veterans take their own lives every day, according to a National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report. 1 A 2023 Annual Report on Suicide in the Military found that 523 service members died by suicide. 2 And a Ruderman White Paper on Mental Health and Suicide of First Responders reported that death by suicide is more likely than dying in the line of duty among police officers and fire fighters. 3 Behind every one of those numbers is a face, a name, and a story that matters deeply to God. These are not just statistics. These are people who stood watch for us, and now it is time for us to stand for them. Why Human Flourishing Matters The Human Flourishing Alliance exists to restore lives and create real pathways to wellness for those who serve and sacrifice for our country. It is built on the belief that true healing extends beyond mental health. It reaches into the heart, the home, and the soul. We aim to help people find hope again, rebuild strong families, and rediscover purpose through faith. The Alliance brings together churches, service organizations, and com munity partners to offer care that is both clinically sound and biblically anchored. Faith-informed care changes outcomes. Research conducted through the Human Flourishing Program (https://hfh.fas.harvard.edu/global-flour ishing-study) at Harvard University and Baylor University reveals that individuals who are connected to faith and community tend to live longer, recover more quickly, and experience lower rates of suicide and depres sion. The Church has always been the first place people go when they are in trouble. It is time for us to equip the Church to respond with excellence and compassion. Partners with Purpose I am so grateful for the team at LUKE Staffing, who has spent more than 20 years working alongside the federal government to care for those who protect our nation. Their heart for service runs deep. And I am equally thankful for LOGOS, which is providing the technology and operational backbone that will allow this movement to grow and reach communities across the country. When professional care, ministry, and community sup port come together, lives change. This partnership is a testament to what can happen when God’s people unite around a shared mission.

This is not another short-term program. It is a national movement to ensure our heroes and their families receive the help they deserve and the care that meets the needs of the mind, body, and spirit.

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

The HERO Council To help guide this initiative, the AACC has established the HERO Council (Human Flourishing, Excellence, Resilience, and Oversight). This group includes some of the most respected leaders in mental health, ministry, and academia who will help shape the future of this movement. • Kenneth M. Alo, M.D. – United Hearts Bring Us Souls Foundation • Sam Bailey, Ph.D. – Senior Pastor, Twin Lakes Baptist Church/TPUSA Faith Chapter Leader • Tim Clinton, Ed.D. – President, AACC • Zach Clinton, Ph.D. – AACC • Bishop Kelvin Cobaris – New Life Church International, Plant City, FL • Jentezen Franklin – Senior Pastor, Free Chapel • Ron Hawkins, Ed.D., D.Min. – Liberty University and AACC • Byron Johnson, Ph.D. – Baylor University • Harold Koenig, M.D. – Duke University School of Medicine • Bill McCarthy – CEO, LOGOS • Tim Murphy, Ph.D. – Former U.S. Congressman, Clinical Psychologist, Author • Chad Robichaux – Founder, Mighty Oaks Foundation • John Sanders – CEO, LUKE Staffing • Fr. Charles Sikorsky, J.D., J.C.L. – Divine Mercy University • Major General Tom Solhjem – U.S. Army, Retired, Former Army Chief of Chaplains • Matthew Stanford, Ph.D. – Hope and Healing Center & Institute/Baylor College of Medicine • Jay Strack, Ph.D. – Student Leadership University • Tyler VanderWeele, Ph.D. – Harvard University • Jennifer Wortham, Dr.P.H. – Harvard University Their leadership and expertise will ensure that every thing we do stays rooted in biblical truth, professional excellence, and genuine care for the whole person. A Call to the Church I believe the Church is called to lead the way in this moment. The need is urgent, but the opportunity is greater. We can be the hands and feet of Jesus to those who have carried the burdens of our nation. Through the Helping Our Heroes FLOURISH Campaign, we invite pastors, counselors, coaches, chaplains, and ministry leaders to join us in this mission. Whether through prayer, partnership, or training, there is a place for everyone to participate. If you or your church are seeking a way to make a meaningful impact, start here. Visit HFAlliance.org and learn how you can join us. Our heroes have stood for us HERO Council Members Include: • Ben Allison, M.B.A., J.D. – AACC

when it mattered most. Now it is our turn to stand for them. Together, we can bring hope, healing, and the promise of a better tomorrow. ;

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.

Endnotes 1 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Suicide Prevention. 2024 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report. (2024). https:// www.mentalhealth.va.gov/docs/data-sheets/2024/2024-Annual-Report Part-2-of-2_508.pdf. 2 U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. Annual Report on Suicide in the Military . (2023). https://www.dspo.mil/Portals/113/2024/documents/annu al_report/ARSM_CY23_final_508c.pdf. 3 Heyman, M., Dill, J., & Douglas, R. (2018). The Ruderman white paper on mental health and suicide of first responders. Ruderman Family Foundation. https://rudermanfoundation.org/white_papers/police-offi cers-and-firefighters-are-more-likely-to-die-by-suicide-than-in-line-of duty/.

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A Christian-centered Approach to Eating Disorders from the Society for Christian Psychology CHRISTIAN PSYCH NOTES Nicolene L. Joubert, Ph.D.

r Research findings suggest that religious faith is associated with fewer health risks and a decreased prevalence of eat ing disorders, anxiety, and depression. However, for those with eating disorders who identify as religious, negative religious ramifications occur. Almost one out of every 10 women develops an eating disorder over the course of her lifetime. This affects not only physical and mental health, but also spiritual expe riences. Some individuals may even conceptualize their eating disorder in terms of their faith, for example, the

disorder is seen as atonement for sin or perfection of an aesthetic lifestyle (Buser et al., 2015). Individuals tend to turn to religious coping in maladaptive ways, and it makes it difficult for partners, family, or close friends to support them from a Christian faith perspective. After years of futile dieting, people may become de spondent and depressed in the fight against weight, which increases the need for faith and prayer support. Feelings of failure and shame could become a daily challenge. The love-hate relationship with food is a constant problem,

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CLINICAL PRACTICE

Religious and faith-based views of eating disorders play a significant role in the struggle against unhealthy eating, as well as the type of support received. If negative spiritual beliefs are encountered in the client or their loved ones, it may aggravate the struggle.

a and the struggle to establish a healthy eating pattern is endless. Eating disorders are often comorbid with social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behavior, and post-trau matic stress disorder. These disorders may contribute to an emotional need that leads to overeating. According to Pivarunas (2015), faith-based connected ness facilitates positive religious coping strategies. Group members exchanging biblical encouraging messages remind each other of their identity in Christ, which instills hope and determination. Faith-based connectedness provides enhanced meaningfulness and effectiveness of group interactions. It provides a sense of safety to share in the group, and they feel better understood. Elyse Fitzpatrick (1984) wrote in her book, Love to Eat, Hate to Eat , that she moved from heartache to a sense of purpose on her journey with food. She experienced the hope, disappointments, and shame of her inability to lose weight until she began to understand that God had something more important in mind for her. Her life was not merely about looking good, but to receive de liverance from inner strongholds of self-righteousness, self-indulgence, worry, fear, and pride. The fight was not only against eating for comfort, but to be transformed and find comfort in God’s presence. Having an unhealthy relationship with food was a symptom of a deeper need for acceptance and a longing to trust in His unconditional love. The impact of growth in an interpersonal relation ship with God and connectedness to others to overcome the imprisonment of an eating disorder is supported by research findings (Pivarunas, 2015). Religious and faith-based views of eating disorders play a significant role in the struggle against unhealthy eating, as well as the type of support received. If negative spiritual beliefs are encountered in the client or their loved ones, it may aggravate the struggle. For example, if the client’s or their loved one’s beliefs include a God that is punishing or abandoning His creatures, it would lead to spiritual dis contentment, which could deepen depression and worsen the eating disorder (Buser et al., 2015). Beliefs of aban donment may increase feelings of helplessness and a lack of control. On the other hand, beliefs in a punishing God may provide a sense of hope because the sufferer may find a way of appeasing Him. Understanding the client’s beliefs and their potential impact on eating behavior is crucial in therapy and the planning of interventions. Several therapeutic interventions could be developed based on a faith-based perspective on eating disorders. First, a thorough assessment of the client’s religious beliefs and their relationship to the eating disorder is required. Second, negative spiritual beliefs and discontentment

could be gently addressed and reframed. The feelings of discontentment and/or anger with God should be ex plored, and the personal relationship with God should be encouraged in a positive manner. The third intervention would be to focus on Christ-centered involvement. During these interventions, the person of Jesus and His ministry and work on earth are explored. The purpose of the cross is discovered anew, and the client is encouraged to ponder the abundant love and grace of Christ available to all humans. Reflection on the immense grace of Christ and its implications for the client’s existence, purpose in life, and eating disorder should become key talking points, with the aim of uncovering new spiritual and psycho logical insights. Painful emotions and shame should be released to Jesus and His love received. During this phase of therapy, inner healing prayers and/or Christian meditation are helpful tools that could lead a client deeper into a safe place with Christ. The pur pose is to facilitate a healing experience that could lead to a transformation of the heart and elucidation of the truth of Romans 8:28-29 (NASB1995): “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren….” The Christ-centered approach would be concluded by reflecting on a personal application of Romans 8:28-29, particularly how the client can become more and more like Jesus, reflecting His purity and grace. The transfor mation of the heart is deeper and more satisfying than following a specific diet. This goal applies to all humans, has an everlasting significance, and prepares us to meet Christ face-to-face. ; 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 Buser, J., Kearney, A., & Buser, T. (2015). Family, friends, and romantic partners of eating disorder sufferers. The Family Journal: Counseling and Therapy for Couples and Families, 23 (4), 320-329. Fitzpatrick, E. (1984). Love to eat, hate to eat . Harvest House Publishers. Eugene, Oregon. Pivarunas, B. (2015). A qualitative exploration of a faith-based support group for women with disordered eating. Pastoral Psychology, 65 (2), 215-225.

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Integrating Faith & Psychology —————— A Guide for Navigating Open Waters ——————

Brad D. Strawn Earl D. Bland

FULL-PAGE HOUSE AD Discover the profound impact of integrating faith and psychology with The Integrative Mindset. Guided by the wisdom of veteran integrative clinicians Brad Strawn and Earl Bland, readers will learn how to cultivate an integrative mindset that harmonizes personal experiences and innate talents with therapeutic practice. Using their combined 60+ years of experience, Strawn and Bland present a compelling emergent model that celebrates the unique and dynamic complexity of each therapist-client relationship.

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INNOVATIVE THOUGHT & PRACTICE

18 Christian Counseling Connection a As mental health professionals, we regularly encounter clients in acute distress. They arrive over whelmed, unable to sleep, replaying conversations endlessly, or are paralyzed by anxiety. While we understand the value of long-term therapeutic work, we also recognize that people in crisis need something they can use immediately—tools to get them through the next hour, the next day, until our next session. Caroline Leaf, Ph.D. WHEN CLIENTS NEED HELP IN A HURRY: Neuroscience-based Tools for Immediate Relief

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INNOVATIVE THOUGHT & PRACTICE

For more than three decades, I have specialized in psychoneuro biology, studying how our thoughts, feelings, and choices physically shape brain structure and overall health. This mind-brain-body con nection is not just theoretical—it is measurable, observable, and, most importantly, changeable through targeted interventions for our clients. That is the foundation of my new book, Help in a Hurry . It offers evi dence-based strategies that clinicians can teach clients for moments when everything feels like it is falling apart. Let me share one technique that exemplifies this approach. I call it the 10-second pause, and it is particularly effective for clients who struggle with reactive anger or impulsive decisions. The process is straightforward: breathe in deeply for three counts, hold for two counts, then exhale forcefully for seven counts. Clients can mentally say “let” on the inhale and “go” on the exhale if that helps them focus. The neuroscience behind this is compelling. When stress or anger activates the sympathetic nervous system, the body floods with cortisol and adrenaline, which can impair the function of the prefrontal cortex. This specific breathing pattern increases oxygen delivery to the frontal cortex while simultaneously activating the parasympathetic nervous system, measurably changing brain chemistry within seconds. It cre ates space between stimulus and response, allowing clients to choose their reaction rather than being hijacked by their limbic system. Understanding Neuroplasticity as a Clinical Tool One of the most hopeful findings I share with clients is that their brains are constantly changing. Every thought, feeling, and choice builds physical structures through neuroplasticity. My research suggests that patterns become ingrained as habits after approximately 63 days of consistent repetition. The encouraging implication is that if neu ral pathways can develop in one direction, they can be redirected in another. This is not about positive thinking alone. It is about understanding the mechanisms of neural change and using that knowledge to facili tate genuine transformation. As clinicians, we are not just helping cli ents manage symptoms—we are equipping them to rewire the neural pathways keeping them stuck. Common Patterns in Clinical Practice Throughout my clinical work and research, I have observed that many distressing moments share common patterns. Clients often engage in dichotomous thinking, becoming conflict-avoidant to the point of self-sacrifice, allowing harsh self-criticism to dominate their internal dialogue, or catastrophizing about worst-case scenarios. One crucial principle I emphasize is normalizing the full range of human emotional experience. Our culture places enormous pressure on people to maintain constant positivity. Research actually shows that pursuing happiness as a primary goal can paradoxically increase anxiety and depression. Struggle and discomfort are inherent parts of human experience, not pathological aberrations. Evidence-based Interventions for Common Presentations My book addresses scenarios clinicians encounter regularly: clients under performance pressure, struggling with rumination, managing anger dysregulation, navigating uncertainty intolerance, and process ing unresolved experiences. For each presentation, my book provides interventions that can be implemented immediately between sessions.

This is not about positive thinking alone. It is about understanding the mechanisms of neural change and using that knowledge to facilitate genuine transformation.

Christian Counseling Connection 19

INNOVATIVE THOUGHT & PRACTICE

For instance, when clients present with intrusive thoughts, I teach them to approach these thoughts with curi osity rather than suppression. Intrusive thoughts often function as signals from the nonconscious mind, pointing toward unresolved conflicts that require attention. By reconceptualizing them as information rather than threats, clients can shift from being controlled by their thoughts to learning from them. Similarly, for clients trapped in regret, I introduce research on counter factual thinking—the “could have/would have/should have” cognitive pattern. Studies indicate that balancing upward counterfactuals with downward coun terfactuals can transform regret from a paralyzing emotion into a learning opportunity. Addressing Contemporary Clinical Challenges The book also tackles modern issues that are increasingly being seen in practice. There is a concerning trend of self-di agnosis through social media, particu larly among younger clients. Research on “prevalence inflation” suggests that widespread mental health messaging, while well-intentioned, may lead people to pathologize normal distress, poten tially reducing resilience.

I address how clinicians can help clients distinguish between normal human struggle and presentations requiring professional intervention, without invalidating their distress. The goal is to achieve an accurate assess ment that neither minimizes genuine symptoms nor medicalizes expected responses to difficult circumstances. Clinical Applications I want to be transparent with fellow clinicians about what this resource accomplishes. These strategies are not replacements for trauma process ing or treatment of serious mental health conditions. What they will do is provide clients with stabilization techniques they can use independently between sessions, helping them interrupt automatic reactive patterns before they escalate. Help in a Hurry is designed as a resource clinicians can recommend to clients or use in group settings. It is written for general audiences, making it accessible to clients with varying levels of psychological sophistication. The strategies are organized around common presenting problems, making it easy for clients to quickly find relevant interventions. Ultimately, what we offer clients is not just symptom management but hope grounded in neuroscience—the evidence-based understanding that change is possible and, with the right tools and support, they can develop genuine resilience. ;

Caroline Leaf, Ph.D., is a communication pathologist, audiologist, and clinical and research neuroscientist specializing in psychoneurobiology. She has 40 years of research and clinical experience in understanding the mind-brain-body connection. Dr. Leaf is the author of numerous books, including Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess , and hosts a top-rated podcast on mental health, which has garnered more than 50 million downloads.

20 Christian Counseling Connection

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WHEN SCRIPTURE IS TWISTED TO CONTROL Gaslighting and Spiritual Manipulation:

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David Hawkins, M.B.A., M.S.W., M.A., Ph.D.

Sarah sat on the edge of her bed, her Bible open on her lap, tears blurring the words. Her husband’s voice still echoed in her mind: “You’re supposed to submit. God commands it. If you were truly a godly wife, you wouldn’t question me. I didn’t write those words, Sarah, God did.” What was she to do now? She wanted to honor God. She knew those Scriptures, too. Deep down, something

felt wrong. The Scripture she once loved—a source of hope and freedom—had become a weapon turned against her. This was the devastating reality of spiritual gaslight ing… when Scripture is twisted, reinterpreted, or selectively quoted to manipulate, control, or silence others . Unlike other forms of emotional abuse, spiritual manipulation strikes at the deepest level of identity and faith.

22 Christian Counseling Connection