This course is designed to be a fast-paced and comprehensive course. It is a standalone “graduate” school course, so there are no course prerequisites for this course; however, Student must be accepted in the DD degree program AND purchase the Kindle Course book COX405. Due to the pace of this course, we recommend completing at least Introduction to Counseling, Pastoral Counseling I and II, and at least 1 practicum or have submitted and approved real ministry experience from previous or current leadership roles in ministry.

Course Title: COX405: Advanced Biblical Counseling Techniques

Course Description:

COX405 is an advanced-level course designed for students pursuing in-depth knowledge and practical skills in biblical counseling within a ministry context. This course offers a thorough exploration of counseling principles grounded in Scripture, addressing the spiritual, emotional, and psychological needs of individuals and communities. Through an integration of theological reflection, case studies, and practical applications, students will learn how to provide effective pastoral care, life-coaching, and mentorship across diverse cultural and societal settings.

The course is structured to guide students through the development and implementation of a comprehensive care ministry in a local church, with a focus on equipping volunteer counselors and managing counseling teams. Students will explore the nuances of crisis and trauma counseling, discipleship strategies, and the unique challenges of counseling in multicultural and multi-generational contexts. The course also delves into the future of biblical counseling, examining emerging trends, the impact of technology, and strategies for maintaining biblical integrity amid societal shifts.

Key Topics Include:

• Foundations of Biblical Counseling: Theology, ethics, and best practices
• Crisis and Trauma Counseling: Immediate response and long-term care
• Life-Coaching and Mentorship: Techniques for spiritual and personal growth
• Organizing and Leading a Care Ministry: Team building, training, and management
• Cross-Cultural Counseling: Understanding and addressing cultural differences
• Emerging Trends in Biblical Counseling: Innovations, technology, and future challenges

Learning Objectives:

1. Develop a solid understanding of biblical counseling principles and their application in various ministry settings.
2. Acquire skills for immediate and long-term counseling, including crisis intervention and trauma care.
3. Implement effective life-coaching and mentorship strategies to guide individuals in their spiritual and personal development.
4. Design, establish, and manage a care ministry within a local church, focusing on training and supporting volunteer counselors.
5. Adapt counseling techniques to diverse cultural and societal contexts, ensuring relevance and effectiveness across different populations.
6. Anticipate and respond to future challenges in biblical counseling, including the integration of technology and global influences.

COX405: Concepts of Biblical Counseling and Discipleship

Upon successful completion of COX405, students will be able to:

1. Understand Biblical Foundations: Demonstrate a deep understanding of the biblical foundations of counseling and discipleship, including key theological concepts, scriptural principles, and the role of the Holy Spirit in the counseling process.
2. Apply Counseling Strategies: Develop and apply effective counseling strategies tailored to various life situations, integrating biblical wisdom with practical techniques to address emotional, spiritual, and relational challenges.
3. Analyze Cross-Cultural Dynamics: Analyze the impact of cultural and societal differences on counseling practices, and develop culturally sensitive approaches that maintain biblical integrity while effectively addressing the needs of diverse populations.
4. Evaluate Modern Counseling Trends: Evaluate emerging trends and innovations in biblical counseling, including the influence of global movements and the integration of technology, while maintaining a commitment to scriptural authority.
5. Design Discipleship Programs: Create and implement effective discipleship programs within a church or ministry context, utilizing both traditional and modern methods to foster spiritual growth and maturity among believers.
6. Prepare for Future Challenges: Anticipate and prepare for future challenges in church-based counseling ministries, developing strategies to remain grounded in biblical principles amid changing societal norms and technological advancements.
7. Equip Volunteer Counselors: Train and equip volunteer counselors within the church, providing them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and ongoing support to offer effective pastoral care and biblical counseling.
8. Integrate Counseling and Discipleship: Seamlessly integrate the practices of biblical counseling and discipleship within a ministry setting, ensuring that both disciplines work together to support the spiritual and emotional well-being of individuals and communities.