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LEAD ARTICLES

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

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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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