Running head: INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES

A 4-MAT Review System: Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity Linda Hilliard Liberty University Online

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A 4-MAT Review System: Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity Entwistle, D. N. (2010). Integrative approaches to psychology and christianity. (2nd ed.). Eugene, OR: Wipf and Stock. Summary The author of this book, Entwistle (2010), takes an analogical approach in his discussion of integrating psychology and spirituality. He used topics such as nature, famous people, and relational subjects to interpret his real life experiences. These quips and stories which were sometime comical, yet revelational, help the reader understand the importance of integrating psychology and theology as a therapeutic intervention. The author has several goals/objectives in which he is trusting to achieve in his book. One submission from the author is that psychology and theology are similar in that they both address human behavior. Another goal is the observation of several analytical approaches which involve the disciplines of psychology and spiritual applications such as discussing the bible or prayer. Another objective of the author is to show how applying and integrating alternative methods in the therapeutic process can be successful tools for the Christian counselor. In the earlier chapters of the book, the author discusses some difficulties of incorporating these two entities in the counseling process. Firstly, some Christian counselors seem to have issues in using this type of integration in their counseling sessions. This trepidation may be due to the lack of understanding of how to incorporate the two disciplines. It also appears that some Christian clients may not be as receptive of this integrative process as others. The clients rejection to the counselors attempt to

INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES implement both forms of interventions could prove to have unfavorable results. This author also contends that the Christian worldviews of the counselor and their personal interpretation of psychology and Christianity could be issues which could positively or

negatively impact the counseling process. The clients Christian and other worldviews are equally important to the counselors integration process. Another very important section in the book is the authors contention about the counselors understanding and the ability of knowing, or epistemology. Entwistle (2010) also stresses the importance of truth, and the counselor knowing the truth about Gods word (theology) and science (psychology). The author also suggests that efficient counselors must know how to utilize their gifts of logic or deduction, revelation, interpretation and hermeneutics as part of knowing in the counseling process (Entwistle, 2010). This writer also gives his perspective about the nature of the world from a scientific and spiritual perspective. He notes that from a natural perspective (science), the worlds existence and human nature is based on matter; however, from the authors spiritual perspective, God is the creator of all things that exist (Entwistle, 2010). The author also used metaphors to describe Christians and non-believers. He likened some of these individuals as spies, enemies, and colonists to name a few. Some characteristics for these titles range from favoring world or Christian views, to rejection of the same, or manipulation, and autonomy. (Entwistle, 2010) suggests psychology and theology are two vey separate and distinct entities; however, he also contends that they can be effective and powerful counseling tools when they are used congruently. In summary, it appears that the main objective of the book is to express the importance of integrating psychology and spirituality; because both entities are vital for successful and

INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES effective counseling. Concrete Response From my reading of the book, the section that resonated within my spirit was the paradigms or models of relationships within each of the disciplines. I could especially relate to the authors description of one category or the enemy model. I liken myself to that of a Christian combatant. Like so many Christians, I was ignorant to the fact of

spirituality and mental health. I had put each discipline in a specific box. I always thought that psychology was a special form of science for people who were crazy. I also thought that there was no other cure but institutions or psychotropic medication. The irony of my ideation is that I have a sister who is bi-polar, and I should know better. It was not until the advancement of mental health technologies and through spiritual teaching that I learned my sisters malady was an illness that needed several types of interventions. However, with that being said, I have grown spiritually. I now consider myself an ally in Christ. I trust his sovereignty, and his awesome power to lead and guide me to all truth in counseling interventions. Reflections I really enjoyed reading the book. I especially liked the way the author cleverly used different story lines to capture and maintain the attention of the reader. The stories were entertaining, yet profound, enlightening, and relatable. I believe the authors intent in using this method was to draw and keep the reader engrossed in the book. However, my question for the author would be if he had the opportunity to rewrite the book, would he use the same creative format, or would he use a more conservative format in conveying his message of integration. I also found certain sections of the book a bit

INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES confusing and sometimes overwhelming; For instance the sections in which the different models of discipline was presented. I know the authors intent was to show every

possible relationship between psychology and spirituality; however, for me, the analogies and metaphors that were used in explaining these disciplinary models were not presented in a consistent and uniformed manner. For me it seems as if this part of the text could have been expressed in a more simplistic form. There were certain parts of the book that I had to read again for clarity. With that being said, I think the goals or objectives that the author seeking to achieve was obtained. Actions Knowledge is power. Therefore, my first plan action would be to seek and learn as much possible about the true form of each discipline. This would entail networking with other peers (believer and non believers), clergy, mental health professionals and attending workshops. I would also continue to read and learn about the different resources for interventions and alternatives that would assist me in counseling my clients. As the author stated, there are many difficulties that counselors may face in the profession; therefore, I would eliminate the issue of not knowing who I am in Christ. I would make a concerted effort to truly understand my spirituality, and if I feel my spiritual relationship is subpar, I would seek the Lord for guidance. I would also seek guidance for understanding the full ramifications of psychological interpretations. I plan to remain ethical and professional; as I know that I cannot impose my spiritual values or ideations on my clients. I plan to have an open line of communication with my clients. This dialogue with them would allow both parties to discuss therapeutic techniques such as including some form of biblical application which would enhance the healing process.

INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES as a Christian counselor I would also extend to my clients the Christ like attributes of love, compassion, patience, truth, and most importantly non-judgment.

INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES References Entwistle, D.N. (2010). Integrative approaches to psychology and christianity (2nd ed.). Eugene, OR: Wipf and Stock.

COUN 506 4MAT Grading Rubric Content 75 Points

SUMMARY: (30 points). Summary is concise, tightly worded, and adequately completeno-nonsense, tight words, gut-deep, insightful precis of the core concepts of the entire book. 500 suggested words

Points Earned: Comments:

CONCRETE RESPONSES : (15) points. Personal life episodedo-it-yourself parable, case study, confession. Based on main points from the book, not peripheral or tangential ideas. Connect specific portion of reading to personal life experience.
250 suggested words REFLECTION: (15 points). Question which pop up, criticism, etc. Positives and negatives about the book. Short, concise critiquestrengths/weaknesses. Reflection based on main ideas of the book, not tangential issues. 250 suggested words

ACTION: (15 points). Action steps based on core points of the book. Description of how main ideas will affect your counseling. What professional changes will you implement (and share with others)? 200 suggested words

INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES Writing 15 Points

Points Earned Comments

Thoughts organized in paragraphs; per APA, each paragraph develops one main idea; paragraphs contain at least three sentences

Paragraph transitions are present, logical and maintain the flow throughout the paper.
The tone is appropriate to the content and assignment.

Sentences are well-constructed, complete, clear, and concise. Sentence transitions are present and maintain the flow of thought.
Rules of grammar, usage, and punctuation are followed.

Spelling is correct. APA 10 Points The paper follows APA (6th) guidelines for format and includes a title page as well as a reference page; each page utilizes a running head and page number. All pages double spaced, per APA.
Citations of original works within the body of the paper follow APA guidelines; all assertions backed by references Citations in text must match citations in reference page Quotes used strategically Points Earned Comments:

The paper is laid out with correct use of APA headings that correspond to the four main sections. The paper title is repeated on the top of first page of text (centered). Times

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New Roman font preferred. Total 100 Points Total Points Earned Final Comments