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The Use of Counselor's Confrontation Technique in Christian Counseling

  • Journal of Counseling and Gospel
  • Abbr : Jocag
  • 2005, 4(), pp.68-102
  • Publisher : Korean Evangelical Counseling Society
  • Research Area : Humanities > Christian Theology > Pastoral Counseling
  • Received : March 30, 2005
  • Accepted : May 10, 2005

Hahn Sook Ja 1

1한영신학대학교

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study is to explore the effective use of the counselor's confrontation technique in Christian counseling. By literature review, this study examines: first, the use of the confrontation technique in counseling and psychotherapy field; second, Jesus' confrontation in the Bible, and the purpose of confrontation in Christian counseling; third, how to apply the confrontation techniques of counseling theories to Christian counseling; fourth, when and how to effectively use the confrontation technique in Christian counseling. The use of the confrontation technique in Christian counseling should focus on helping a client realize, confess, and repent his/her sins so that the relationship of a client to God can recover. Christian counselors should keep in mind that in the process of confronting, the Holy Spirit is always present. The 'dispute' technique of cognitive counseling theory can be applied in helping a client confront his/her irrational beliefs and change to Biblical thoughts. The various techniques of the Gestalt counseling theory can be used for helping a client confront and realize his/her unsolved past feelings and bring about the catharsis of the feelings. But the techniques alone are not sufficient to guide a client to the road of grace. Christian counselors should let clients know that forgiveness only comes from God. The 'exposure' technique of behavioral counseling theory can be used for helping a client confront his/her evasive behaviors and have Biblical thoughts. Before the confrontation techniques of counseling theories are applied to clients, sufficient explanation and education about the techniques of counseling theories should precede their application to clients. When Christian counselor discusses sins with a client, he/she should listen carefully, understand empathically, and accept unconditionally what a client says. Above all, the counselor's empathy is the most important prerequisite before a confrontation. It is not good for a counselor to confront a client's sins too early, too fast, too often, and too directly. Christian counselors should use understandable, easy language, with soft and humble attitudes. After confrontation, Christian counselors should anticipate a client's possible resistances, and let the client express his/her feelings. Jesus had proper relationships with various kinds of people and Jesus' confrontations were carried out gradually. When a Christian counselor confronts a client with the client's sins, he/she can begin from less threatening issues and gradually move to deal with more serious issues.

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