Synopsis "Basics for the Holistic Christian Counselor"
Based on Genesis, chapters one and two, from the Holy Bible, God created human life, which is holistic that is with physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and social aspects. It would follow that medicine, education, psychological/psychiatry, faith/spirituality, and social/recreation must also address each aspect in context of the whole, not separate unrelated units. Thus, professionals need to have frequent informal and formal interaction and consultations on particular cases. The Basic for Holistic Christian Counselor will attempt to open communication including training with Christian clergy and laity, and mental health counsleors. The premise of Christian faith-based spirituality is the meaning and/or purpose to life in relationship with God [Father, Son - Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit), which may immediately cause some controversy; however, faith-based spirituality will be given without any physical, mental, emotional, spiritual or social coercion, force, or bribery. The author, Richard L. Strait, Sr., stressed the importance of mental health counseling education, training and supervision. He believes that co-occurring life and therapy includes spirituality; therefore, the Christian counselors also needs theological education, training and supervision from qualified theological college/seminary with a qualified mental health/faith-based counselor or pastor. The Basic for Holistic Christian Counselor consist of some real life with no personal data revealing the person, in fact often the illustration is mixed with several persons and/or events. It is hoped that this will open the reader's thinking and consider of technique.