"The soul will bring forth fruit 

           exactly in the measure as
                
            the inner life is developed."  

             ___________  Charles de Foucauld

                                             Meditations of a Hermit

THEORETICAL MODELS

Given the rich complexity of human thought and behavior, it is difficult to believe that any one theoretical model of psychotherapy provides an "absolute" solution to all human dilemmas.  If this were the case there would be no need for the great diversity of models available.  Albeit theoretical models have different names and defining principles, they all work toward understanding human behavior and "correcting" problems in life.  

While gleaning from this huge field of theoretical models, I tend to be pragmatic and use whatever works best in any given situation.  My approach is guided by strategic analysis, forming a hypothesis and then employing appropriate interventions agreed upon by the client.  Rather than swim in an eclectic pool of unending theories, however, I have studied, narrowed down the field, and chosen specific models of therapy which integrate easily into my own style of counseling.  

In general, I lean heavily toward Cognitive-Behavioral theories while drawing on Psycho-dynamic concepts integrated within the Judeo-Christian Spiritual worldview.  Communications and Developmental theory also contribute to my counseling style and methods.  This combination appears to offer a strategic, yet wide enough foundation to cover most counseling situations.  With children, teenagers and families I employ the Play Therapy Model, Art Therapy, and Psychodrama techniques when appropriate and beneficial.  

Psycho-Spiritual Model

My style fits well into an emerging model of psychotherapy called Psycho-spiritual, so named because it draws from traditional theories of psychology while remaining sensitive to a broad range of spiritual worldviews.  My particular theory and style integrates the Judeo-Christian philosophy into its format.  Although I have personally chosen to accept Jesus Christ into my heart, one does not need to wholly adopt the Judeo-Christian worldview to benefit from its philosophy.  

For example, using a cognitive framework in which to build awareness, thought and understanding is basic and critical to every process of cognitive-behavioral therapy.  Hence, this is a matter of "renewing the mind" in Judeo-Christian terms.  Necessary client goals, values, objectives and interventions are drawn from many sources — not excluding Judeo-Christian Scripture.  And likewise for other spiritual worldviews, goals and values are drawn from their sources of holy writ.  

Many clients have spiritual concerns and seek spiritual growth, movement and direction in their lives.  This can not be denied of the client.  Therefore, a model of therapy that combines both cognitive and spiritual components can and is dynamic, holistic, sensitive to one's spiritual worldview, and an effective means to transform one's problems into "Spirit-led" solutions. 

Judeo-Christian Worldview

As for the Judeo-Christian Worldview, it offers an intrinsic philosophy of value regarding all human life.  Judeo-Christian Scripture is replete with images of a loving Creator God who deeply desires a personal relationship with his created beings of whom he welcomes to become his children.  Likewise, in the world of cognition — written, spoken, thought or prayed — we are presented with an incredible opportunity to learn, to grow, to understand, and even to fathom an eternally existent Creator God.  To many, the focus and clarity that come through the lens of a spiritual worldview helps keep their hope alive — both in this world and in the one to come.

Cognitive-Behavioral Model 

We tend to be governed by our thoughts and beliefs.  We are wounded or healed by words.  Our laws are written on paper.  Signatures and informed consent give credence to agreements.  Our prayers emerge in thought and conscious deed.  Even when considering our past we wrestle with imbedded thoughts and memories (accurate or not) of things said and done — or things not said and done.  

Our cognitive interpretation of an event (whether rational or not) tends to govern our thoughts, emotions and behavior.  It is therefore necessary to gain power over one's thought life, reconcile past hurts or inner conflict, and bring the mind under control of one's ultimate beliefs and values.  A foundational Scripture I regularly use is, "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind".  This aligns perfectly with the Cognitive-Behavioral approach. 

STYLE OF COUNSELING

My style is somewhat direct as I work very hard to help clients explore, identify and articulate their reasons and goals for counseling.  I attempt to help clients see their potential and move toward it as quickly and effectively as possible.

While some clients know exactly what they need and want, others may feel tossed and turned by circumstances in their life.  Some clients are ready for immediate, strategic intervention and have the resources and energy to tackle it.  While others need time to sort things out, to reflect, to learn, and to grow at a pace suited to their situation.  

Although change and growth can occur amazingly fast, it does take time to reinforce and practice new thinking patterns, new emotional responses, and new behaviors.  The human soul is not a "plug-and-play" unit that can be yanked out and replaced by some universal predetermined methodology.  Inner transformation is a dynamic process that requires time, thought, and energy.

I believe that being heard and genuinely understood is healing in and of itself.  Empathetic listening taken to the next level is where my counseling experience can help.  My approach is strategic and solution-focused.  So whether a person is ready for immediate and dynamic change, or a longer-term solution is needed, we will take time to develop a working plan on which to build the foundation to one's success.  I balance this approach by remaining open and mindful to the most simple, effective solution to a client's problem.  Sometimes less can be more!

Healing and recovery tends to be holistic.  That is, a breakthrough in one area of a person's life often cascades into many other areas as well.  Finding the "keys" to one's locked potential and well-being is always exciting and encouraging to me.  I lean toward hope and optimism in every situation.  As individuals are able to see their path in life, and their way to peace, their burdens tend to lighten and this "new" energy flows into their overall well-being to improve their quality and richness of life.

I have observed many clients learn to overcome a multitude of challenges: personal, relational, spiritual, academic and career.  I have seen many clients experience healing, freedom and growth even during the worst situations of loss and grief — especially when their spiritual values and relationship to God are integrated into a holistic counseling experience. 

       "He who has begun a good work in you 

         will be faithful to complete it."    

                                        (Philippians 1:6)    ______________

(c)  Thomas Isaac Berscheid, MA, LMFT, LPC, Licensed Minister