CCC 28-1

LEAD ARTICLES

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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6 Christian Counseling Connection