Ask Buck: What is your perspective on counseling?

My perspective on counseling is deeply rooted in my faith and life experiences. I view counseling as an integral part of pastoral care, combining spiritual guidance with practical support for individuals. My approach is firmly grounded in biblical principles, as I believe the Word of God is the ultimate authority in life and faith.

  • Biblical foundation: I view counseling through a biblical lens, emphasizing the Word of God as the ultimate authority in life and faith.
  • Pastoral approach: I see counseling as an integral part of pastoral care, combining spiritual guidance with practical support for individuals.
  • Mental health integration: In addition to training in counseling, I have obtained certification in mental health coaching, demonstrating I value the integration of mental health principles with spiritual counseling.
  • Holistic care: In counseling, I seek to encompass both spiritual and emotional aspects of a person’s well-being.
  • Empowerment focus: I strive to emphasize equipping and empowering individuals, which extends to my counseling philosophy.
  • Discipleship-oriented: My counseling perspective is closely tied to a focus on discipleship and helping individuals grow in their faith.
  • Recognition of professional boundaries: I acknowledge the importance of recognizing when to refer individuals to professional counselors for issues beyond my expertise.
  • Personal experience influence: Having faced my life challenges and spiritual formation, I recognize those experiences influence my empathetic approach to counseling.
  • Continuous learning: I continue to pursue additional certifications in theology, church-based counseling and pastoral care focusing on improving my counseling knowledge and skills.
  • Community-centered: My vision for ministry includes fostering supportive church environments, I see counseling as an integral part of broader community care.

 

Overall, I seek to provide a biblically grounded, pastorally-oriented approach that integrates mental health principles and focuses on empowering individuals within a supportive church community.