Counseling Ethics for Counselors in Grief or Christian Counseling

Posted on January 18, 2024February 18, 2025 by Dominick Flarey

This is required reading for students taking SC 570 or GC 400.

The norms of ethics to any particular field helps maintain a standard of quality that is expected from certain professionals within a certain field. It guides them in situations of doubt, directs them in proper procedure, and protects them and the client from unintended harm. Dating back to the Hippocratic Oath, the idea to do no harm to those one helps is the cornerstone and foundation of all professional ethics.

Ethics in Counseling

It was not until modern era that ethics began to take a more codified form for professionals. Thomas Percival due to poor performance in his own medical facility created the standard and blue print for modern medical ethics. Other professional careers, including, mental health, counseling and anything within human services soon followed with their own standards. The American Counseling Association (ACA), the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT), the National Association for Social Workers (NASW), the National Organization of Human Services (NOHS) and the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) all have developed mission statements and standards and guidelines for professionals to adhere to. These standards are usually divided into areas of care to the patient, the profession, other colleagues, students, payment policies and publications. It is important if entering into the counseling field to read through these and understand the ethics one must adhere to.

Counseling involves trust and many ethical standards from various associations ensure the integrity and quality of counseling. All counselors should review the various ethical standards found in ACA or other associations

Bear in mind, some counselors are pastoral and others are clinical. Different states assign different titles to licensure. In counseling, the most common is Licensed Professional Counselor or LPC. Other variations can include Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) or Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). Most states require a graduate degree in counseling and a passing of the state board exam to become fully licensed. Paraprofessionals are unlicensed counselors can work under licensed counselors or within a care facility but there are not able to independently operate. As for pastoral counselors such as ministers or lay apostolates, these individuals are permitted to operate due to separation of church and state but are restricted beyond the realm of guidance. Treatment and pathology are alone reserved for licensed professionals in social work, counseling, and psychiatry. Whether a counselor, social worker or a psychologist, only a healthcare professional such a psychiatrist, medical doctor, or Nurse Practitioner can prescribe medications. This is why many mental health facilities have the proper prescribers available on staff.

If a pastoral counselor with only a certification from AIHCP in Grief Counseling or Christian Counseling, one must ethically adhere to proper identification. The term “counselor” can be very misleading because it is so generic and widely used. Individuals use the term in everyday breath but there is a huge difference between clinical professional counselors and pastoral counselors. Pastoral counselors operating as grief counselors or Christian counselors can help guide but never treat pathology. They also cannot mislead clients into thinking they are licensed. This needs to be understood and articulated upon the first day. What one can do and not do needs to be clearly articulated to and understood by the client. As for licensed professionals who receive certifications from AIHCP, this is clearly not an issue.

Some counselors are licensed and others are not. It is important to properly identify your credentials and operate within your legal boundaries

In Denise Daniel, short but concise book “Counseling Principles and Christian Beliefs: An Integrated Approach”, she lays out some important concepts not just for Christian Counselors but also any type of licensed or non-licensed counselors. She first points out the importance of identity and what counselors are or not and what are their limitations as licensed or not licensed or the expertise they possess. Second, she points out what is the role of the particular counselor. She emphasizes that most counselors, according to ACA, look to create a professional relationship that empowers and strengthens diverse families and groups to better achieve mental health, wellness, education and career goals. The aim is more centered around wellness and prevention (Daniel, 2020, p. 3). The final third point is integration and how one’s own biases, beliefs and codes of behavior come into play as a counselor. Fortunately, ethical codes point out numerous guide posts for professionals in where and how to integrate themselves with patient care.

According to Daniel, the ACA lays out some core principles. Among the key themes she addressing in her book are patient autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence, justice, fidelity and veracity (2020, p. 5). Before we review some of the key ethical guidelines, it is important to look at some of these themes and how they apply to licensed counselors but also pastoral counselors, and in some cases, Christian Counselors. Bear in mind, whether grief counselor, licensed or non-licensed, these themes apply to all in the counseling fields.

Important Themes in the Counseling Relationship

Autonomy refers to allowing the patient to be free to make choices in their overall health and life. A counselor needs to respect the choices of a client whether approval or disapproval occurs. For Christian Counselors, this may seem contrary to the goal. There are certain moral precepts that must be obeyed but in a relationship, one must exercise patience. Scripture points out that God gave Adam and Eve free will. He respected autonomy and choices. Again in the parable of the Prodigal Son, the father, permits the autonomy of his son to make poor choices but still never gives up hope that he would one day return.

Non-maleficence refers to doing no harm. Counselors, whether they want it or not, hold all the power in the relationship and they must be very careful in not allowing that power to become corrupted. This can happen very easily because the client is in distress and looking for guidance. A counselor can influence and exploit a client very easily hence numerous standards exist to balance this relationship. The goal of counseling is to heal not harm.

Beneficence refers to promoting only good for the client. It involves helping the client with the best possible and verified studies and knowledge on the subject. It involves looking out for the best of the client and guiding them to their ultimate best end.

Justice refers to fairness to all clients and ensuring equality to the numerous diverse groups one serves. It also involves understanding social justice and promoting justice for those who are persecuted.

Fidelity refers to faithfulness to the client. It involves never betraying them, keeping things confidential and not abandoning them. It means working through the most difficult things and not giving up on them.

Finally, veracity refers to honesty. Trust and honesty is the foundational rock of all relationships. Without honesty, one cannot communicate facts, one cannot share realities, and one cannot heal and grow. Honesty also involves the counselor’s assessments, promises, and outlooks. Even when difficult situations arise, honesty with respect is expected in a counseling relationship.

Important Ethical Codes

There are a variety of critical ethical codes that are all found within the various associations that mirror and reflect the themes above but also dictate more detailed situations.

For instance, in the ACA code of conduct A.4.b., it is clearly emphasized that an individual should never impose one’s own beliefs on another and to respect the diversity of the client. The idea of discrimination against other faiths, cultures, sexualities or values can come into play easily. This is why the AAMFT’s code 1.1 deals directly with this type of discrimination. One is not to discriminate against others based on these types of differences. The AACC has a slightly different tilt on the issue since the type of counseling itself is Biblical and certain life styles or actions are contrary to the type of counseling being sought. This however does not present a green light for the Christian Counselor to impose own personal beliefs. AACC’s code 1-340-a reminds the Christian Counselor that one is still to respect the autonomy and decision making process of the client. Again, 1-530 dictates that the Christian Counselor respect other faith beliefs and only disclose upon request and only if it benefits the client. Daniels proposes a term referred to as “bracketing” where professional opinions are laid aside and avoiding the triggering of one’s own personal views (Daniels, D., 2020. p.4). Please also see ACA’s A.2.c. Developmental and Cultural Sensitivity standard.

In all counseling, it is important to keep the counselor’s personal beliefs removed from the story. In Christian Counseling, while religious values are shared, the personal bias of the counselor must still respect the autonomy of the client, as well as never abandon the client due to immoral choice or life style

Common to this ideal of bias and discrimination fuels the idea of abandonment. Counselors may feel the temptation to dismiss a client who will not listen, fulfill promises, or follow a certain value system. This unethical practice is condemned in all guidelines. The ACA guideline A.12. stipulates that counselors never quit seeing their clients without proper continuation of treatment through themselves or through others. The AAMFT guideline 1.11 shares the same view that no client is to be abandoned and not seen without reasonable arrangements for continued treatment. The AACC in its rule 1-640-a shares with all other human service entities that a client is not to abruptly abandoned and that treatments are to continue until other options are available.

Another important theme is referral. Many times, certain counselors may become overwhelmed with a particular issue beyond their standard of care. This can especially happen with paraprofessionals or unlicensed counselors who are merely pastoral. Many fall under this venue. This does not mean they do not offer a qualify service but due to knowledge or professional and legal limitations, a referral is sometimes necessary. The ACA guideline A.11.a stipulates that a client that is beyond their skill level or competency should be referred to another professional. In the AAMFT guideline 1.10 also states that professionals may refer clients to others professionals when they are unable to help. Again, in the AACC guideline, Christian Counselors 1-240-d, it is stipulated that Christian Counselors should not refer merely based on faith based issues but when situations grow beyond their skill level, they can refer to more capable authorities.

Relationships can also become toxic. Due to the imbalance of power between in the counselor-client relationship, abuses of power can occur. Within the guidelines in all associations are clear cut warning regarding exploitation. Sexual relationships are condemned in the most strict sense. It is not uncommon for a vulnerable person sometimes to develop feelings for a counselor and it is important for the counselor to correct and document these advances. Counselors are also ethically restricted from working with past romances, family, or close friends. The bias can be strong in these cases in helping the individual. Counselors also need to keep a distance in cases of friendship. The relationship is not one of friendship in the social meaning. Hence, counselors should avoid most social interactions with clients, such as parties, graduations, or dinners. In some cases, if it pertains to a particular issue or healing, a counselor can appear on a professional basis only. Please refer to ACA -A.5. Prohibited Non-counseling Roles and Relationships which cover a broad array of relationships that can occur that considered illicit in counseling. In addition a counselor is to refrain from sexual relations in the NASW handbook as well as physical contact (1:10) when such contact would cause psychological harm. So where a hug or a touch of hand is needed is to be very carefully judged by the counselor. In addition, language and proper presentation in how one speaks is listed in the NASW handbook under standard 1:12.

Unfortunately, sometimes, a client may become attracted to a counselor since the counselor represents a source of power and strength when the client is most vulnerable. It is important for the counselor to be empathetic but also distant when attraction occurs, especially mutual. In some cases, referrals may be needed. To also help prevent such situations, physical gestures such as a touch of the hand or hug should be avoided. In addition, one should carefully screen the acceptance of gifts, unless otherwise approved due to cultural issues and sensitivities.

Other conflicts of interests can occur within agency and client. If dealing with one’s organization, one may also feel tugged and pushed by agency or funder agendas, over client care. Time, funds, and allocation of resources may effect one’s success. This can cause a grey area in client care and the client’s well being. It can also potentially lead to not following policy of employer. As one can see, many ethical dilemmas can spring from such actions.

Another set of regulations we will look at involves confidentiality. A counselor sets out on day one what he or she is willing or can do to the best of their abilities. Within this, there exists a confidentiality that is critical to veracity and fidelity. The boundaries of that need to be clearly laid out. All standards assert that counselors are to keep records and conversations private. Records are to maintained safely, whether paper or electronic, and conversations are to be kept strictly between themselves, unless otherwise dictated. Exceptions, upon approval of client, can include access to records for particular family, or access to records via other team members treating the individual. Again, this agreed upon in advance. Please refer to ACA -B.1. Respecting Client Rights which covers issues of confidentiality as well as exceptions under B.2

Confidentiality is the bedrock of trust between the counselor and client and must be protected and preserved unless under certain exceptions of physical harm to the client or others

In cases, where an individual may cause harm to oneself or others, or upon certain legal orders, a counselor may disclose certain information for the overall safety and good of the client or others. This is far less lax than the seal of confession. One way to better protect and shield oneself from potential mandatory disclosure is listing limits of confidentiality with the informed consent form. In addition, to reminding them throughout the counseling process of the limitations especially when a client seems eager to share a secret. Clients many times feel everything is confidential and fail to understand these limitations.

It is also essential that counselors properly store and preserve documentation. Electronic as well as hand written files needs to be clearly locked and protected and not visible to other wandering eyes. This helps preserve confidentiality.

Another grey area that may occur is transparency in representation. If hired by the state or an authority to review divorce cases, criminal cases, or employee evaluations, counselors need to be very transparent with all parties involved. Documentation for any case needs to be comprehensive, unbiased and utilize accepted and modern strategies. It is also essential to never treat someone beyond one’s ability, or promise things beyond healing. One should also not advertise oneself as a licensed counselor if not a licensed counselor.

Conclusion

Standards and ethical codes are critical to protect counselor and client. They also lay the groundwork for better care and healing for the client. In additional resources and references, there is a list that includes the ACA and others. Links are provided. I highly recommend one reviews these regulations and completely understands the ethical expectations of counseling, whether at a pastoral or clinical level. Whether secular or religious, there are standards that are needed within this special type of relationship.

Ethics and standards are critical to the profession of counseling. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian and also Grief Counseling Certifications

Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification as well as AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Certification. The programs are online and independent study and open to all qualified professionals seeking certifications in Christian or Grief Counseling.

Additional References

“Counseling Principles and Christian Beliefs: An Integrated Approach”. Daniels, D. (2020). Kendal Hunt Publishing Company

American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC). (2023). Code of Ethics. https://www.aacc.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/AACC-Y-2023-Code-of-Ethics-FINAL-Draft.pd

American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). (2023). Code of Ethics. https://www.aamft.org/Legal_Ethics/Code_of_Ethics.aspx

NASW, National Association of Social Workers. (n.d.). https://www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/Code-of-Ethics-English/Social-Workers-Ethical-Responsibilities-to-Clients

Anointing of the Sick and a Peaceful Christian Death

Posted on October 3, 2023December 14, 2023 by Dominick Flarey

Death entered into the world as a result of sin but through Christ, new life and a new beginning is granted. While fearing death is natural, the Christian can see death as a transition not a final chapter. It is a doorway to new life and the fullest life possible. It is not in the temporal world, where humanity’s nature is complete and unbroken, but only in the next life. In the next life, the soul is reunified with God and through the promised General Resurrection, the guarantee of unification of again and body and soul. Hence death is not an end but a phase of existence that is only temporary and an opening into a world so much larger. It thus extremely important to ensure that transition to the next life is a priority. This is the case for all world religions, but also the same for Christianity. With Heaven or Hell for eternity in the balance, ensuring a proper and good death with God is essential and vital.

Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament in Catholic and Orthodox faiths and a sacred ritual in other Christian denominations for the spiritual renewal of the dying person

Christianity has since its conception emphasized the importance of preparing for death. The Anointing of the Sick has its origins in Scripture. The Apostle James comments, “is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the Church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick man and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven (James 5:14-15).

Different Christian traditions all believe in the value of anointing in the sick and terminally ill, but others classify it differently. In Catholicism and Orthodoxy it is a sacrament. The Anglican Church considers it to have sacramental character and in most Lutheran and other Protestant denominations, see it as a critical ritual of the faith. As a sacrament, The Anointing of the Sick, and in the past, Extreme Unction, is an outward sign used to manifest and give grace to the soul. As a sacrament, it gives grace through the source of Christ’s death on the cross that flows through the Holy Spirit to the soul. It can be received multiple times depending on the grave danger of the person’s condition. Hence, it can be received in multiple terminal or possible death situations, whether in the hospital or home. In the Orthodox, it can also be utilized in communal services. In the West, under extraordinary circumstances, such as before war, soldiers and certain qualifying groups may receive it.

The matter, or visible sign, is the blessed holy oil. This oil in the West is blessed by diocesan bishop on Holy Thursday. In the East, this oil can be received throughout the year at the end of Liturgy on certain feast days but in itself is not the sacrament but used for overall physical and spiritual healing and continued good health. The form of the sacrament constitutes the various prayers and words offered by the priest or minister during the administration of the sacrament.

Holy Oil is used to anoint the sick. It is the visible sign of healing and presence of the grace of God preparing the soul for the next life

Last Rites is sometimes confused with Anointing of the Sick. It is important to note in Catholicism and Orthodoxy, Last Rites entails three sacraments. Anointing, confession and reception of the Eucharist.

The effects of the sacrament and ritual has multiple sacramental and grace infused benefits to the soul. It forgives sin but also prepares the soul to peacefully accept death and prepare it for reunion with God. Physically it can heal but healing and miracles are alone determined by the will of God. There are miraculous cases but these are extraordinary examples and not the norm. Death is natural and the healing is more so focused on the spiritual than physical. Although from a physical and psychological standpoint, the ritual can bring mental peace and a presence of God within the mind of the person. It is comforting to know that Christ is present with one in one’s suffering and death.

Throughout the study of suffering and Christian grief, the Christian does not seek to escape death, deny it, or even escape suffering, but is called to carry one’s cross and unify it with Christ as one’s High Priest. Christ is the ultimate example of the Suffering Servant and His example of accepting death and suffering should inspire other Christians to do the same. While always praying for a cure or miracle, the Christian should also be accepting of God’s will. One should primarily seek spiritual healing and God’s presence in one’s final moments.

During the reception of Anointing, one may be unconscious or awake, but it is critical to voice the need prior of the desire to receive it. Family or nurses should be made aware of one’s desire to see a minister or priest. This can be laid out in healthcare directives and becomes critically important if one becomes unconscious and unable to ask for spiritual aid in person. Also, it is important prior to risky surgery or potential unconsciousness due to drug induced states to request Anointing of the Sick. Most in everyday procedures that are not risky may simply say a short prayer of contrition and adoration before simple anesthesia but with far more risky procedure one should never leave one’s soul open to possible spiritual risk and danger.

Through Anointing of the sick, Christ comes to us in our dying moments. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Grief Counseling Program

In conclusion, spiritual preparation before death is critical. If it happens like a thief in the night, one may receive the sacrament post mortem but one should always pray both morning and night proclaiming love of God and sorrow for sins. One of the most beautiful things one can pray for is a peaceful death where one is able to receive the sacred mysteries in advance. This is a blessing that many sometimes never think of due to the fear of thinking about death itself. However, a peaceful Christian death with grace and the image of God is the greatest gift that may be given in this world.

Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification as well as its Christian Grief Counseling Program. Both programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

Additional Resources

“WHAT IS ANOINTING OF THE SICK? WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?”. Archdiocese of St Paul and Minneapolis. (2006). Access here

“The Anointing of the Sick – Catechism of the Catholic Church”. Catechism of the Catholic Church. CNA. Access here

“Is Anointing Oil Biblical and Should We Use It Today?”. Riggleman, H. (2021). Crosswalk. Access here

“40 Bible Verses about Anointing With Oil”. Knowing Jesus. Access here

Christian Counseling: Understanding Metaphysical Integration of Brain and Soul

Posted on June 28, 2023February 19, 2025 by Dominick Flarey

Atheistic guided neuroscience has proudly proclaimed the death of the soul with advances of understanding how the brain operates and functions. As DJ Dobbins in his article, “Does the Soul Exist” proclaimed, “There is nothing left for the soul to do (Dobbins, 2013)”. It would seem with every emotion, abstract thought and “spiritual” function mapped out throughout the brain that the soul itself is an antiquated ideal.

What is the boundary between brain and soul? Is there one? Are they separate, integrated or merely a physical phenomenon.

Take into consideration the brain itself. Within the amygdala, various emotional reactions related to fear and anger are monitored and controlled. Within the hypothalamus, stress response triggers tied closely to pituitary gland are regulated giving the body its ability of fight or flight. Within memory itself, the hippocampus creates and stores memory through a flash work of neurons and neurotransmitters creating a pattern of responses that correlate to abstract memory itself. Upon the cerebral cortex, exist various lobes of the cortex that regulate further emotions, inhibitions, understanding, consciousness, memory and language. Furthermore, neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine can greatly alter emotional moods based on excess or less amounts. What one is left with is an astounding explanation of many metaphysical attributes once solely thought as free of matter and scientific observation. The intellect and the will, the hall mark classic identifiers of the soul, are left with material explanations that live and die with the functioning of the brain itself.

In fact, all moral behavior can be explained by brain function. How can one sin or bear responsibility for damaged frontal lobes, mood disorders, or chemical reactions that affect thought and moral decisions.

Also, consider this. If part of the brain is damaged, one can lose important information of one’s life. Amnesia and dementia and physical injuries to the brain can alter identity and self through theft of oneself. If part of one’s brain is altered, taken, or injured, personality and behavior can be greatly altered. If the left and right hemisphere of the brain is divided, there can become two autonomous actions independent of each other. So is the idea of the soul merely a mechanical action that exists and dies with the brain’s activity?

Reactions in defense of the soul

Dualism is the most common reaction to the atheistic neuroscience. Dualistic ideals teach that the brain and soul operate simultaneously. Rene’ Descartes believed that both the brain and soul operated in parallel of each other. He properly dictated that something spiritual cannot be spiritual divided unlike the brain and hence the soul operates at a independent level. Opponents point out that a dual consciousness can arise when the hemispheres of the brain are split. What does this say of the soul they contend?

Others point out that the soul communicates through the brain. The fullness of the soul exists independent of the brain but is manifested in the brain. Of course, this is theological discourse, not scientific observation.

What type of soul?

When incorporating dualism it is important to understand one’s own definition of the soul. Ideas of the soul and its connection with the body differ from traditions. From a philosophical Platonic school of thought, the body is a temporal vessel of the soul. In Buddhism and Hinduism, the soul travels from different material bodies through reincarnation. In these religious and philosophical traditions, the importance of the body is regulated to a shell. Hence once the soul escapes the body, what explains its consciousness if the body was just a shell but yet still produced such spiritual activity within its own very functioning?

The soul and the brain are intimately connected in Christian theology. Human nature is both body and soul

It is important in Christian Counseling to understand the human nature.

In Christian theology, the body and soul are inseparable . Before the fall of Adam, the body and soul communicated perfectly. Adam’s control of his passions and great intellect all pointed towards a body that worked perfectly with the soul in regards to balance of emotion. Hence Adam’s brain operated at full capacity without defect. Adam’s endocrine system did not create chemical imbalances. His neurotransmitters did not create imbalances of serotonin or dopamine to create mood disorders. In essence, his body was in complete harmony with his soul.

His soul in fact was never created prior to his body. Unlike Platonic ideas of the soul, Christian theology teaches that the soul and the body were made for each other. Hence the intricacies of the brain operating and the soul operating are in many instances one mind. The fact that metaphysical realties would manifest within matter are no surprise. The brain, like an interpreter, is able to process abstract spiritual concepts and physically manifest them. The partnership of the brain and soul is so intense that it is not truly even dualistic. They were never intended to be separated.

It was the sin and fall of humanity that caused death. Death, from a Christian standpoint, is an unnatural event. It is the tearing of the soul from the body. It is the cost of sin itself.

With the death of the broken body due to sin and its displaced spiritual component, one pays the price for the sin of Adam. One’s entire life has been a struggle until that moment of death. The body does not respond to the intellect and will perfectly, the body breaks down, the soul is open to passionate and uncontrolled inclinations. Due to this temporal dysfunction within the the fallen world, death arrives.

A purely dualistic system of thought sees the soul as an independent rider of the bike that can be cast off the bike at death to exist independently, but the Christian system views the bike and its rider as one system. While the consciousness absorbed through temporal life exists beyond the death, it is through God that it incompletely still exists awaiting judgement and the return of the body. While the temporal connection was broken, one’s human nature was not completely corrupted on earth and still yearns the perfect reunion. The body and soul were made for each other.

Christ’s Resurrection

Christ is the New Adam and hence it is only fitting through His resurrection, His Body was a glorified Body. Christ was already perfect, but His Body on earth was still temporal despite the Divinity within Himself that allowed Him to perform miracles. After His Resurrection, Christ’s Glorified Body was the body that is intended for all humanity. Like Adam’s pre-fall body, the soul has complete mastery of the body, but it is also glorified. From Scripture, Christ can manifest differently with light and make it hard for individuals to know who He is. Furthermore, He is able to transport from different areas, however, due to the wounds on His Hands, Side and Feet, it is clear it is the same Body that was crucified but transformed.

Christ’s glorified Body on earth showed the return of the body to the soul

Humanity will share in Christ’s Resurrection. Through Christ’s death, He conquered sin and through His Resurrection promises a full reunion of body and soul. The temporary exile of the soul from the body is removed. The body and soul then are reunited in a perfect way. It is of no wonder then that the brain and soul are so close to each other. It is natural that they exist side by side and work together in expressing a full human nature.

The Brain as a Metaphysical Organ and Partner of the Soul

While atheistic neurosciences see the brain as the soul from an only observational and empirical standpoint, they cannot philosophically deny possibility of a spiritual component within human nature. The brain in itself is a metaphysical organ. It translates spiritual emotion, thought and memory in a material code through the patterns of firing neurons. Like the ability of radio waves to interpret human words on the radio, the brain and its certain components have the amazing ability to translate the soul. The soul receives all information through the senses. The branch of Epistemology or how humans gain knowledge can be divided into the concept of realism. Within realism, knowledge is gained by the senses. This was championed by St. Thomas Aquinas. Hence the soul gains its primary knowledge from its surrounding areas via the senses. The brain interprets and aids the soul in this material exploration. Albeit imperfect in the temporal reality due to sin, the partnership still functions.

The brain hence is immersed within the soul and vice versa. They were never intended to be separated at creation. The brain is a partner of the soul and all its manifestations aid the soul in understanding reality.

“Proofs” of the Soul

While the brain is not the soul itself but a partner intimately interwoven with it, the soul after the Fall, was deemed to be separated from the body. Death is unnatural but the soul still exists beyond as conscious energy. The amount of time one is separated from the body is not measured in minutes since time is no longer a player after death. It could be seen like an instant upon the refusion of the soul and body upon where it will enter into its heavenly reward or hellish curse. However, due to sin, the unnatural state of death kills the broken body and snatches an incomplete human’s soul into eternity without his/her body.

Yet, the conscious energy of the soul, albeit incomplete still has abilities to exist due to God’s plan to reunite it with the body. How this is accomplished is a matter of faith. The immortality of the soul is a mystery that science cannot explain. Yet one can see instances of the soul and its operations beyond its interwoven material expressions within the brain.

In Christianity, the notion of spiritual eyes and spiritual senses is well understood. For instance, knowledge that is gained not through the physical senses explain a deeper existence beyond broken matter in this world. While empirical science does not accept these ideals or looks for logical explanations, individuals, saints and mystics have all experienced out of body, mystical, and innate discourses that do not permeate from the senses. For instance, beyond the natural REM dreaming, one can review prophetic dreams or communications. In some cases, the senses can be utilized but in most cases, the subconscious void of sense perception is open to Divine or angelic communication. In addition, many who experience Near Death Experience describe their surroundings in detail without seeing the surroundings with their own physical eyes which were closed and brain activity was comatose. The spiritual eyes yet were able to see and then later recount the instance utilizing memory of the event from a spiritual source.

Moral Implications of Sin and Choice

It would be criminal not to at least react to atheistic neuroscience’s assault on moral theology. If the brain and its chemical reactions account for all of reality, then how can one be accountable for sin or wrong? If moods due to neurotransmitters are altered, or parts of the brain are altered or removed hence affecting behavior, how can the soul be a source of morality?

Of course, as stated, the manifestation of inhibitions, decisions, and thoughts within the brain are clearly listed. Morality is a complex system of biology, genetics, social norms and learned behavior. Certain maladies do play a key role in altering behaviors.

For the Christian, it is understood there is a complex and intimate connection between the soul and body. It is also understood due to the fall of Adam, there is a conflict between mind and flesh. Due to sin, sickness and death exist as well. Hence, in many, anti-social disorders, depression and other mood disorders, certain behaviors can manifest. In fact, removing certain areas of the brain can have staggering effects on moral behavior. This though in no way complicates the existence of the soul and its connection to the brain. Again, Christians maintain a intimate relationship between the body and mind albeit a broken one. Hence explanations for behavior from a purely neurological point are expected but they are not the sole source.

Christian moral theology takes into account mental maladies that reduce culpabilities of the agent committing the offense but conscience, morality and free choice in most cases still exist. One is not programmed to sin and do evil. It is through disease, broken nature, environment, and habitual vice that lead to many neuro factors that contribute to a mentally disturbed person as well. The sickness of the brain that leads to immoral deeds is a sad story but one due to Original Sin. It exists and plays a factor because the soul and brain are interwoven but it is not the only aspect of the story that dictates what someone is or not.

Conclusion

It is of no wonder to the Christian who understands the unity of human nature that the brain and soul closely are correlated. While separate, they are still intimately interwoven so closely that manifestation of the spiritual is possible. To atheistic neuroscience this may be hard core evidence that the functions of the brain are the soul but to the Christian it only reinforces the idea that the soul and body are meant to be together forever. Unlike platonic and dualist ideals that view the body as the inferior partner or temporary shell, the Christian understands that only due to sin does this fallen temporal reality exist. It is because of sin that the body and soul are not in complete unison and that elements of our body affect our soul and elements of our soul affect our body. It is with this understanding that the Christian can marvel how wonderfully created he/she truly is and how while sin scarred it temporarily, it will one day be completely and perfectly restored. Human nature is both flesh and soul!

The brain and the soul are tied intimately together. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification

Christian Counselors need to understand how the brain, its parts, and neurotransmitters play a role in moral action. It is not a indictment against the existence of the soul but a manifestation of the innate partnership between the brain and soul. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.

Additional Readings : Some articles are from an atheistic neuroscience stance and others support Christian belief of the soul. Others are merely educational

“The brain and memory: Understanding how the brain thinks”. NIH. (2022) Access here

“Does the Soul Exist? Evidence Says ‘Yes’”. Lanza, R, MD. (2011). Psychology Today. Access here

“Why psychology lost its soul: everything comes from the brain”. Paxinos, G. (2016). The Conversation. Access here

“Neuroscience and the Soul”. Hobson, A, MD. (2004). Dana Foundation. Access here

Christian and Biblical Counseling and Its Proper Use

Posted on May 4, 2023December 17, 2024 by Dominick Flarey

Christian and Biblical Counseling is important to spirituality and development. Individuals need spiritual guidance and aid throughout their life from a Biblical perspective. However, spiritual care is not mental care. Biblical Counseling is for salvation of the soul but it is not a clinical book for mental health. When these things are confused and interwoven, it becomes a serious problem and misuse of the Word of God.

Furthermore, Christian Counselors who are not Clinical or Licensed Counselors cannot help those suffering from pathology. They require proper training at the clinical level. Some clinical and licensed counselors may specialize in Christian Counseling and can treat individuals but they still should know where Scripture starts and ends when treatment is involved for pathology.

Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification and see if it matches your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

Christian Counseling Certification Video on Just War Theory

Posted on October 20, 2022 by Dominick Flarey

Just war theory looks at the difference between murder and killing, invasion and defense, and aggression versus protection. Good nations and good people must stand firm against evil in a fallen world. It is hence sometimes the duty of the just to defend the weak against the evil of aggression.

Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Christian Counseling.

Please review the video below on Just War Theory

Christian Counseling Certification Blog on Just War and Putin’s Failure to Adhere

Posted on March 16, 2022 by Dominick Flarey

The recent war in Ukraine is an atrocity that screams to heaven for justice. Vladimir Putin has disregarded all norms of civilized war and like the “Hitlers” before him has become an international war criminal hiding behind a large nation and army. His war in Ukraine not only fails the standards of justification according to civilized nations and secular society but completely fails all standards of Christian conduct.

This is amazing since many right extremist Christians once hailed him as a good Christian man. His own puppet regime church in Moscow quietly ignores his atrocities as he unfolds an unjust war in Ukraine and the true un-Christian mask is removed from the face of this dictator. Putin has no care for just war or anything remotely Christian and his behavior in past wars such as in Syria, Georgia, Chechenia and other regions also show the atrocities towards civilians and un-needed death that follows his immoral orders.

The just man and woman though ask questions how a Christian may take up arms against such monsters. In WW2, millions took up arms against Hitler and were forced into bloody conflict. Hence how does one retain Christian teaching of “Thou Shall not Murder” in response to unjust aggression. It seems almost comical to call upon violence to stop violence within Christian teaching. It seems contradictory but due to the fallen world we live in, we do not have the luxury of living in a white and black world and unfortunately, sometimes, force is needed to stop a greater evil. This blog will review Aquinas’ theory on just war and also look to understand what it means to be a Christian during war.

What makes a war just? Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification

Self defense is a key concept. One is always entitled to defend oneself within appropriate response as the matter dictates. If one tries to assault another, oneself is entitled to resist and fight back, even if injury is incurred upon the aggressor. The intent was never to hurt another person but to protect oneself. The secondary result in defending oneself is the injury to the aggressor. This falls within a remote and often unheard moral concept known as the Double Effect. An action with good intention produces two ends, one good and one not good. The good result is willed while the not good result is a byproduct. Hence in self defense, one’s primary vocation to life which is self-preservation is undertaken. In this endeavor, one seeks to preserve one’s life through appropriate force against an aggressor which results in one’s preservation but also the byproduct of injury to the other.

One often can become confused since Christianity if improperly interpreted produces a pacifism in all cases. Christ did say to turn the other cheek and warned those who take up the sword will die by the sword. Do these words contradict self defense and defense of the weak? Christ never came as a political savior to the Jews despite the horrific treatment they received from the Romans. Christ was a spiritual redeemer and presented no political doctrine. What he intended to teach was how we deal with people in our daily life. We are to accept wrong doing patiently from our neighbor. We are to turn the other cheek rather than seek revenge. We are not to take up the sword in revenge or fight with others over trivial things.

Christ, never presented self defense of Himself, in His holy passion. He accepted the brunt of sin as the sacrificial victim. It was His vocation.

This does not apply to closing one’s eye to cruelty in this world against the weak or self defense of ourselves. As long as the intent is just and the force appropriate, then it is justified to help others with the use of force. Sometimes helping one’s neighbor requires a rise of force. Is this not true of the great Archangel Michael and his holy war against Lucifer?

Hence, the 5th Commandment rightly states, “Thou shalt not murder”, not kill. The intent to kill is never primary but always secondary. The intent is to defend oneself or others against great evil that causes greater harm if one would not act.

In case of WW2, we clearly see the allies response to Hitler as a just cause but lets review the criteria of just war from the Angelic Doctor, St Thomas Aquinas and apply it to both WW2 and war against Putin.

St Thomas Aquinas outlined the measures to justify force against an aggressor within Christian morality. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Program

Aquinas points out that all violence against evil must be a last resort. Diplomacy must be exhausted. Other venues to avoid bloodshed must be examined before a defense is established.
Aquinas dictates that the war must be pursued by legitimate authority against the opposing force.
Aquinas requires the war to be a just cause. Hence defense of oneself or others is a prerequisite for any violence
Aquinas considers probability of success as also a notion, unless of course the war is for one’s very survival itself such as the case of Ukraine.
Aquinas lists right intention as a key as well. The intention is to restore peace and repel the aggressor. Revenge is not sought but only justice
Aquinas elaborates that proportionality be equal to the aggression. Hence justice demands only the required violence to end the conflict and not punish beyond the initial offense of the aggressor. This also mirrors modern laws which outlaw certain weapons. This also includes mercy to surrendering combatants.
Aquinas finally demands that the war and violence only be directed at military operations and not against civilians. This mirrors modern day war which considers attacks on civilians to war crimes.

Like Hitler, Putin fails on every criteria.

Hence the WW2and today’s war against Putin is justified. Christians must pray for an end of war, forgive their enemies, and promote peace, but if war is needed, good individuals must arise. The quote attributed to Edmond Burke but truly stated from John Stuart Mill proclaims, “the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing”. That is the rally cry to end pain and suffering when evil arises with the appropriate force of good Christian men and women to take up arms when history calls.

Source

Wikiepedia: “Just War Theory”

Christian Counseling Certification Article on Exorcism

Posted on December 19, 2018December 21, 2022 by Dominick Flarey

One of the most frightful aspects of Christianity is exorcisms. Exorcisms though have a deep rooted history in Christianity dating back to Christ. Christ himself cast demons out and taught the apostles how to. Today, the practice continues in the Church, but most especially within the Catholic Church.

Demons play a dangerous role in our spirituality. Exorcisms cast them from our body. Please review our Christian Counseling Certification

The article, “Exorcisms have been part of Christianity for centuries” takes a closer look at exorcisms and their history in the church. The article states,

“The Exorcist,” a horror film released 45 years ago, is a terrifying depiction of supernatural evil. The film tells the story of a young American girl who is possessed by a demon and eventually exorcised by a Catholic priest.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review the Christian Counseling Certification program from AIHCP and see if it matches your academic goals

Christian Counseling Training Article on Becoming Closer to Christ

Posted on November 13, 2018December 1, 2022 by Dominick Flarey

As Christians, we are always looking for ways to develop a closer relationship with Christ. Many turn to many devotions, such as the Sacred Heart, others find recourse to the Eucharist. Some delve deeply into scripture and meditate upon the life of Christ and his message. In order to grow, we must all have a closer and more personal relationship with Christ.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus. Please also review our Christian Counseling Training

The article, “21 Ways to Revive Your Relationship With Christ” lists a variety of ways we can remember Christ and become closer. The article states,

“Even the most dedicated Christian may sometimes struggle with their relationship with God. They love Christ and want to be close to Him, but for whatever reason, they have begun to drift away from Jesus. It may have been the result of a tragedy or simply from allowing spiritual growth to take the backseat while they focus on more immediate seeming concerns. Once your spiritual growth stagnates, however, it can be difficult to find your way back to Christ.”

To read the entire article, please click here

By becoming closer to Christ, we can become better Christians and bring Christ to the world. Christ is our Redeemer and as our Redeemer, we need to find faith in Him, and what better way to strengthen faith than to become closer. Please also review our Christian Counseling Training.

Christian Counseling Article on Raising Teens

Posted on October 23, 2018December 1, 2022 by Dominick Flarey

The teenage years and later adolescent years can be filled with turmoil for the teen. Physical changes, social dealings, and trying to find identity can create havoc in study, home life and moral values. In adhering to these moral values, teens can struggle if not properly supervised or cared for by a loving parent. It is essential to encourage values and practices to keep the teen on track.

Raising teens with good Christian morals is a vocation. Please also review our Christian Counseling

The four moral virtues, which when applied to teenage life can be very beneficial. If they do not always manifest, as long as the seed exists, their advancement no matter how dormant they may seem may reemerge in early adulthood. The reason being is that many of the norms of teenage behavior due to hormones and development prevent their manifestation.

For instance, the virtue of prudence is associated with wisdom. Wisdom is not for the young, but we hope at least, our teens are able to form logical and good moral decisions against the most blatant of wrongs. We hope they will utilize prudence in not drinking and driving, or not taking drugs, or not being involved in various serious illegal activities. It is difficult to expect a teen to show prudence in all decision making, but as chemicals in the brain stabilize and the mind develops, clear thinking with prudence can develop later if it is already there.

In the case of justice, teens can sometimes have a distorted view of right and wrong. They may not have the ability to understand all the angles of what one should or should not do in their relations with others, but if parents can at least instill the basics of the Ten Commandments as a paradigm, then a good foundation can prevent disaster.

Fortitude is an important moral virtue as well, but many teens fall to depression, or give up so very easily. Teens need praise and self esteem boosting. They need to be told they are can succeed and when things go wrong, to properly adjust and persevere. The virtue of fortitude helps someone deal with spiritual, mental and physical problems.

Finally, the virtue of temperance is definitely a struggle for teens who are experiencing urges and pressures to experiment and push the limits in many ways. Drinking and sex are all temptations that overwhelm a teen. Temperance is put to the ultimate challenge with these urges both internal and external. Unfortunately, through consistent bad habit, the virtue of temperance can be extinguished in a young soul if not protected. Satan understands how he can influence the youth during this difficult phase and corrupt their innocence.

So the moral virtues are extremely important at any phase in our life, but especially important in the teen years. While hampered due to the phase of life, teens with parental guidance can overcome many of the temptations associated with this age.

We pray our teens will have virtue in their life to know the differences between right and wrong

Parents need to though understand that mistakes can occur. It is up to parents to properly manage their teens during this period and understand the conflict. Culpability for the moral offenses can even be less before the eyes of God, but although teens are experiencing these new feelings, it is important to still hold accountability. As parents, we stand before God for what our children become and it is important to help our children weather the storm of the teen years with proper guidance, restrictions and consequences.

A good moral life can be developed despite the storm of adolescence, but parents need to be willing to take the time and effort to water the seeds of virtue that were planted at Baptism and childhood. The world and Satan will take your child if you let it, but it is ultimately up to you to say “NO”

If you would like to learn more about Christian Counseling, then please review the program and see if it matches your academic and professional needs.

Christian Ecumenism or Indifferentism?

Posted on August 2, 2013October 27, 2022 by Dominick Flarey

Christian Counseling and Ecumenism: What Type of Dialogue

Christian Counseling and Christian Dialogue with the world involves a sharing of ideas and values, it does not mean denying core beliefs of Christ or trading them for other ideals. In essence, many mistake Christian ecumenism as indifferentism. People interpret that since Christians are open to dialogue, then they are willing to compromise or water down. When people discover that this dialogue is not about compromise but sharing the truth, then Christians are accused of evangelization under the guise of ecumenism.
The problem lies in what Christian Ecumenism really is. It is a dialogue with the world, but it is not a compromise of truth. It also is not direct evangelization but a more passive form. A form where the Christian does not come as a missionary but a brother. The dialogue seeks to find common cultural and religious ideals that can begin a relationship of understanding that seeks unity instead of division. Christian Ecumenism looks to unite all of God’s creatures and hopes to expose the truth of Christ to other brothers and sisters as equal partners in God’s world.
So many past images have existed where missionaries treated the indigenous people as savages. While both sides have their stories from history, Christian Ecumenism looks to other people as enlightened and equal in human dignity. While Christian Ecumenism can never lower Christ to Buddha or Mohammad, we can find value in some of the moral teachings in our open dialogue in understanding other people.
Christians involved in ecumenism do not seek to convert via debate but via example. The open dialogue allows Christians an opportunity to share the gospel in an non-evasive way via example. Through interaction, the ideal is not to weaken one’s faith but to understand others and to show others the value of Christ through action.
If you are interested in counseling for Christians and learning more about our program, then please review the site.

Mark Moran, MA