When and How Do You Address Sin in Counseling

My views on discussing sin are changing as with several other key issues. Previously, I was a believer in a “shine the light” philosophy. That is, speak the truth in love and you are doing what God would have you do. In reflecting more on this, I am now of the opinion that you have to meet the client where he or she currently is. I think the more that the client is strong in his or her faith, I would be open for direct confrontation. I would need to know if my client is aware of his or her sins. If so, is he or she repentant? If these are answered in the affirmative, then direct confrontation may likely be my best approach.

So many clients, however, enter counseling in self-doubt and with much guilt. In these cases, I can see the use of McMinn’s “empathic confrontation” (1996, p. 150) as a much more productive approach. If there is any doubt whether the addressing of sin could harm the client, it is my duty to be patient in this matter. The therapeutic relationship in these situations is more important that the confrontation of sin.

McMinn, M.R. (1996). Psychology, theology, and spirituality in Christian counseling. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.

Risks of Praying in Counseling Sessions

McMinn ( 1996) highlights several risks in praying in counseling sessions. Three risks that he points out involve praying with the client. The first is that praying can be extremely intimate and as such could adversely affect the therapeutic relationship. The second risk is that in praying with the client, the counselor can reduce the client’s propensity for praying directly to God. The third risk is that by praying with the client, the counselor can be looked upon as a righteous person who is quick to judgment. The client then may be reluctant to become vulnerable with the counselor, afraid that his or her sins will be condemned.

Another risk comes from praying silently for the client in the counseling session during pauses or client reflection time. The risk is that the counselor may be distracted in praying and not be in the moment with the client. Body language signals may be missed that would provide hints to the counselor in how to proceed. This last risk that McMinn (1996) identifies if of particular importance to me. I have Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and as such can become distracted very easily.

McMinn, M.R. (1996). Psychology, theology, and spirituality in Christian counseling. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.