Core_Conditions_&_Core_Skills

In order for Christian’s counselors to provide proof of emotional health and spiritual maturity there should be a clear understanding of what is needed in these areas. This should include a heartfelt movement towards physical or mental wellbeing and a developmental state of mind in the likeness of Christ. As we embark upon the challenge of becoming trustworthy Christian counselors, we must possess certain qualities and characteristics that reflect core conditions as well as core skills as defined in our text, Caring for People God’s Way: • Genuineness. “Counselors must live out the change he desires to see in his clients”. We must practice what we preach. • Warmth. “The ability to promote a sense of comfort in the client”. We must make sure our clients are at ease and comfortable in our company…establish a rapport with the client. • Positive regard. “Anything the client believes, desires, or does is acceptable, positive regard should be given”. We must exhibit care and compassion towards a hurting and wounded client. • Support and challenge. We must support our clients through the “tough stuff”; however we must challenge their destructive behavior and life style. (Clinton, Hart, & Ohlschlager, 2005, p. 37). The core skills we demonstrate are noted in the way we: • Urge our clients and comfort and console them. • Warn our clients and point them in the right direction. • Encourage our clients to step out in faith. • Help our clients and support them spiritually. • Patient, not expecting too much too soon from our clients. Ultimately it is equally important that we incorporate effective listening as we focus on our client’s needs. Genesis 1:27 reveals- “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God created he him; male and female created he him”. This scripture is symbolic to the characteristics God has placed before me, which are my abilities to be humble and steadfast in my faith and the choice to believe in the Holy Spirit. The patience and capacity to remain gainfully employed with the same company for 39 years and finally retire are examples of the aforementioned. As a helper and volunteer in the community, I am competent and skillful in dealing with individuals on different socio-economic levels. Moreover my area of expertise focused on customer service, which equipped me with the skill of effective listening and the capacity to relate to my former customers’ needs and desires. Reference Clinton, T., Hart, A., & Ohlschlager G. (2005). Caring for people God’s way. Nashville,