Addressing Spiritual Concerns
Addressing spiritual concerns with a client is important but must be done is the correct
manner. Three models used to address spiritual concerns are the sensitivity-based model, the
integratively based model, and the doctrinally based model. All three of these models are
effective, but each one takes a different approach in addressing spiritual concerns.
Sensitivity-based Model (SB)
The sensitivity-based model includes being sensitive to and evaluating the spiritual issues
that a client presents with. It is a situation specific evaluation and assesses the issues that arise
within the client's presentation during the intake process. This is used to assess what spiritual
issues may be tied to related problems for the client, which is then used to help treat the client.
(Sanders, 2013)
Integratively Based Model (IB)
Similar to the sensitivity-based model, the integratively based model is also sensitive
when addressing spiritual issues in a client’s presentation. However, the difference is that
spiritual perspectives are used to treat the client through regular mental health treatment
methods. One of these methods could be cognitive behavioral assertiveness training. (Sanders,
2013)
Doctrinally Based Model (DB)
Again, the doctrinally based model is similar to the sensitivity-based model because the
therapist is sensitive to the issues of spiritual nature, that are occurring. In this model, the
therapist starts from a very particular, religious based perspective that underlies all the other
approaches of the client’s therapy. Something that makes the doctrinally based model different
from the other two models, is that particular doctrines of biblical application can be the active
ingredient in the client’s therapy plan rather than regular approaches of cognitive therapies.
(Sanders, 2013)
Lay Counseling
After reviewing the three models I would argue that the doctrinally based model is the
best for lay counseling. This is because it is almost entirely doctrine based and a lay counselors
are counselors that do not have licensing and work usually within churches. This being said, I
think that it is safe to say that lay counselors, who often work in churches, are utilizing more
doctrine that many other types of counselors.
Personally, I only see one protentional issue with this model being used by lay
counselors. This issues is that some people may need more cogitative based therapy approaches
and most lay counselors do not have much knowledge, nor the experience, to provide those types
of therapy.
Concerns
My only concern is, that consent is received regardless of which model a
therapist/counselor chooses to go with. This is a very important step, and an ethical one, in order
to treat the client properly and ethically.
Skills
I would say that the two most important skills would be integrity & competence, as well
as, dignity & diversity. I think this are the most important because (1) you must know yourself
and what all you bring to the table, you must also know how good you are at certain areas while
also knowing the areas you lack in, and (2) you must be confident and competent in your
abilities. You must also be aware that people comes from all different backgrounds; you need
basic knowledge of diversity.
Conclusion
Three models that can be used in counseling include: the sensitivity-based model, the
integratively based model, and the doctrinally based model. All three models have pros and cons,
but all can be helpful in a client’s treatment plan. With all of these models, before you can utilize
them you must have consent, this is an ethical requirement. With all of these models it is
important to have integrity & competence as well as dignity & diversity.
