3. Secular techniques can be helpful.
The use of some secular therapy interventions is not inherently wrong; the overreliance and/or independent use of these techniques is. Research and personal testimonies reveal that secular interventions are successful in the abatement of symptoms. However, the independent use of these secular techniques falls short because they simply produce a “symptom free” individual.
The end result does not provide dependence on the Lord, salvation or sanctification. The result is nothing more than freedom from current symptoms, yet there is continued bondage to sin. The underlying cause of pathology (separation from God) has not been addressed. Therefore, we cannot eliminate the Gospel from therapy. We also cannot discard all secular techniques.
The elimination of research-based interventions from therapeutic practice would be a disservice to our clients. Not providing clients with skills that may help alleviate their psychological distress is also not good stewardship of our knowledge.
Helping a child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder organize their school supplies, explaining and modeling the appropriate use of time-out to parents, challenging negative thoughts and teaching diaphragmatic breathing are some examples of secular techniques that do not challenge Scripture-based psychology. As Christian psychologists, we should teach, provide, preach, and pray, just like Jesus.
4. Research can be appreciated.
Secular research has a lot to offer in understanding mental illness. Christian psychologists should cautiously embrace this research. Comprehending the biological, social and psychological underpinnings of mental illness can create in us great empathy for our clients.
The more knowledge we obtain, the more we can adequately help others. Contrastingly, we must also recognize that not all secular research is congruent with Christianity. When research and Christianity contradict each other, we follow the latter.
5. Seek to make a difference outside the therapeutic relationship.
Most psychologists and therapists will have ample opportunities to make differences, exalt Jesus and create changes within the context of their therapeutic relationships. Although these are wonderful, our influence should not stop there.
Christian psychologists should seek opportunities to change our communities, schools, coworkers, institutions, research and the whole psychology world. Our influence should move beyond the walls of a therapy room to infiltrate different levels within our field. Jesus went to the world, and so should we.
Note: Originally appeared on Ed Stetzer’s blog.
