Course: PT518ENG Introduction to Pastoral Care and Counseling

Topic outline

WELCOME
WELCOME

Welcome to the Course "Introduction to Pastoral Care and Counseling". We hope and pray you will have a wonderful experience studying with us and complete this course successfully!

An introduction to the principles, and techniques involved in the pastoral ministry of care and counseling. The course emphasizes basic counseling skills and ability to relate to others. Biblical, theological, and ethical concerns in pastoral care ministry are discussed and an overview of common counseling concerns is presented.

We hope that you will enjoy this course and you will successfully complete it. This is a simplified course, but it has all the video lectures, and you also have the opportunity to check yourself and pass the final exam if you choose to. This course is self-paced and is not intended to be assisted by a teacher. But if you have any questions, you can ask our instructor using the discussion forum "ASK A QUESTION" below or writing at tvsstudent@gmail.com (in the subject of the letter, specify the course code PT518_001). Our teacher will be happy to answer all your questions. Also, you can choose to study this course at a deeper level along with the course facilitator. To move to that version of a class, please register on the en.tvseminary.org website or write about your desire at: tvs.student@gmail.com
COURSE LECTURES
COURSE LECTURES
You can both view lectures in video format and listen to them in audio format. You can view video lectures only online (when connecting to the Internet), and you can listen to lectures in an audio form both online and offline (without connecting to the Internet). If you do not want to download the entire course, but only individual lectures, then open the "AUDIO LECTURES" section and select those lectures that you want to download. After that audio lectures will be available to you offline.

CAUTION: You will need about 100 MB of free space to download this course fully. You can permanently delete downloaded files later by selecting the "MANAGE STORAGE" menu item.
- VIDEO LECTURES (you can watch lectures only when connected to the Internet)
- LECTURE 1. The Harassed and Helpless Around You
  
  In Matt.9:36 Jesus had compassion on the crowds of people, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. But what about the people who know the Good Shepherd? How do they feel 'harassed and helpless' in their life and walk with Christ? In this lecture Lee Eclov introduces the course on pastoral care and counseling by sharing the results of the survey conducted in the Village Church Linconshire, north of Chicago.
- VIDEO 1. The Harassed and Helpless Around You (8:19) Page
- LECTURE 2. Start by Listening
  
  The hardest skill a pastor has to learn in counseling is probably not how to use the Bible but how to listen. In this lecture Lee Eclov answers the following questions:
  
  What is active listening?
  
  How does active listening help someone?
  
  What are the most important listening tools?
  
  What if you don't know what to say?
- VIDEO 2.1. What is Active Listening? (9:06) Page
- VIDEO 2.2. What if I Don't Know What to Say? (8:32) Page
- LECTURE 3. The Place of Scripture
  
  What’s the place of Scripture in pastoral care and counseling? Isn’t the Bible the ultimate advice-giver? Don’t pastors use Scripture to tell people what God wants them to do? In this lecture Lee Eclov talks about the primary purpose of Scripture, explains how the Bible should be used properly and reminds of the transforming power of God's grace.
- VIDEO 3. The Place of Scripture (15:19) Page
- LECTURE 4. Six Basic Dynamics of Pastoral Counseling
  
  Virtually everything pastoral counselors do relates to one or more of six dynamics of the counseling situation:
  
  The care and cure of souls.
  
  God's help.
  
  Listening and guiding the counselee.
  
  Biblical transformational principles.
  
  Counselee responsibility.
  
  Counselor responsibility.
  
  In this lecture Lee Eclov gives an overview of six key ideas that will be discussed during this course and also talks about different issues that arise in counseling.
- VIDEO 4. Six Basic Dynamics of Pastoral Counseling (13:49) Page
- LECTURE 5. What Makes a Good Counselor?
  
  What makes a good counselor? How does your faith enter into pastoral counseling? What should you know about yourself? Lee Eclov answers these questions and introduces Johari Window, four different dynamics that are in play in counseling and pastoring, and shares his experience with counseling.
- VIDEO 5. What Makes a Good Counselor? (16:58) Page
- LECTURE 6. Biblical Theology for Counseling
  
  One of the features of a good counselor is the understanding of biblical teaching about human beings in their relationship with God. In this lecture Lee Eclov turns to Genesis 3 which provides 'biblical psychopathology' and helps to sort through what is being presented to the counselor as he engages with the counselee. Watch this video to learn about three dynamic processes necessary to the transformation in a person's life.
- VIDEO 6. Biblical Theology for Counseling (23:32) Page
- LECTURE 7. The Care & Cure of Souls
  
  One of the most basic tasks of a pastor or church leader is the care and cure of souls. Pastoral counseling is a blend of spiritual direction and problem-solving. Spiritual direction is one aspect of pastoral counseling. In this lecture Lee Eclov talks about four traditional elements of soul care and shares a number of rules to apply in practical situations.
- VIDEO 7.1. Four Traditional Elements of Soul Care. Part I. (14:24) Page
- VIDEO 7.2. Four Traditional Elements of Soul Care. Part II. (15:58) Page
- LECTURE 8. Integration Issues in Christian Counseling
  
  Christians have always given counsel to one another. This has long been part of the pastor’s role. With the rise of psychology as a secular discipline Christians face the issue of whether or not biblical truth can be integrated with secular therapy. In this lecture Lee Eclov briefly talks about the history of psychology and looks at the distinctive features of Christian counseling.
- VIDEO 8.1. Short History. (26:28) Page
- VIDEO 8.2. What Makes Counseling Christian? (17:14) Page
- VIDEO 8.3. Mental Illness in the Church. (17:44) Page
- VIDEO 8.4. History. Part 2. (15:38) Page
- VIDEO 8.5. Four Models of Counseling in Pastoral Ministry. (14:48) Page
- VIDEO 8.6. Reflections on the Differences in Models. (12:33) Page
- LECTURE 9. Sin
  
  Sin almost never lies alone and exposed on the surface of a life. And it is almost always wearing other clothes. You’re not sure you’re even seeing a real sin. Sin is an enormous factor in people's lives and one of the reasons they need to come for counseling. In this lecture Lee Eclov talks about the effects of sin and gives some helpful tips on how to handle the problems when dealing with someone's sin.
- VIDEO 9.1. What Happens When We Sin? (20:41) Page
- VIDEO 9.2. Problems the Pastoral Counselor Might Face. (18:09) Page
- LECTURE 10. Building with Broken People
  
  In a way, pastors build churches from broken people redeemed by God. In this lecture Lee Eclov looks at Psalm 103:1-5 and the benefits of salvation. How can the benefits of salvation help during counseling people? Watch this lecture to find it out.
- VIDEO 10.1. Psalm 103 (20:53) Page
- VIDEO 10.2. Lessons Learned: Grace Brings out the Worst in People (19:46) Page
- LECTURE 11. The Pastor’s Tools: Authority, Wisdom & Grace
  
  Pastors need to be careful how they handle authority. Ministry leaders need wisdom that comes at the intersection of their Bible study, ministry conversations and reflection. A pastor needs pockets full of grace. In this lecture Lee Eclov speaks about three essential tools in the pastor's toolbox: authority, wisdom and grace.
- VIDEO 11. The Pastor’s Tools: Authority, Wisdom & Grace (16:53) Page
- LECTURE 12. Key Transformative Biblical Principles
  
  When we consider how to use Scripture to help people deal with sins and diseases of the soul, let alone less inward issues, it can be daunting because we feel as though we know so little of the Bible. But there are relatively few transforming life principles in Scripture. Many texts point to these basic principles. They are all centered in Jesus Christ. Without a relationship with Jesus, and the truth of Jesus, these do not work. In this lecture Lee Eclov shares some practical examples and asks you to identify transformational principles that can help in each situation.
- VIDEO 12. Key Transformative Biblical Principles (15:56) Page
- LECTURE 13. Listening
  
  Listening is the first and most basic gift and skill in Christian counseling. In this lecture Lee Eclov shares insights on how to listen well: listen beneath the surface and listen intentionally. You will also learn about four attributes of empathy.
- VIDEO 13.1. The Most Basic Gift and Skill. (23:08) Page
- VIDEO 13.2. Four Attributes of Empathy. (18:58) Page
- LECTURE 14. Prayer in Counseling
  
  Sometimes the best thing you can do for people who come for counseling is pray for them. You can pray before a session, during a session or after a session. In this lecture Lee Eclov talks about praying for counselees "in the Spirit" with Biblical words and ideas. Watch this video if you want to learn to pray thoughtfully and pray in faith.
- VIDEO 14. Prayer in Counseling (14:25) Page
- LECTURE 15. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  
  One of the most basic and widely-accepted approaches to counseling is cognitive behavioral therapy. It is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors, not external things, like people, situations and events. In this lecture Lee Eclov looks at the benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy and explains the process of helping others to find new ways of thinking and responding.
- VIDEO 15. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (21:30) Page
- LECTURE 16. "Connecting", by Larry Crabb
  
  This lecture is based on the book "Connecting" by Larry Crabb. Lee Eclov covers some of the ideas from the book and looks at the pattern of retreating, reproving and referring. He talks about people who see the problem as an issue of stubborn will, psychological damage or disconnected soul. Watch this video to learn Larry Crabb's view on people's problems.
- VIDEO 16. Connecting, by Larry Crabb (16:20) Page
- LECTURE 17. Recapping and Strengthening What We’ve Learned
  
  What can a counselor discover by listening well? What happens when you listen past the facts? What’s next to hear? What can’t listening do? When must the counselor become the main speaker? When the counselor speaks, what are his/her most beneficial approaches? When is it good to give advice? What’s wrong with giving advice? In this lecture Lee Eclov answers these questions and recaptures and strengthens the things you've learned about listening.
- VIDEO 17. Recapping and Strengthening What We’ve Learned (21:24) Page
- LECTURE 18. The Continuum of Care
  
  Pastors don't have to solve all the problems by themselves. They have the benefit of the whole church, both local and beyond, in helping care for people. In this lecture Lee Eclov shares some examples where the congregation could help the counselor and talks about community as a necessity of pastoral counseling.
- VIDEO 18. The Continuum of Care (7:40) Page
- LECTURE 19. Boundaries in Pastoral Counseling
  
  This lecture is based on the book "Boundaries & Roles in Ministry Counseling" by Dr. Miriam Stark Parent and Pastor Lee Eclov's personal experience. Who is responsible for setting boundaries? Why do we need boundaries? What are the most common boundary issues? Watch this lecture to find out.
- VIDEO 19.1.“Boundaries & Roles in Ministry Counseling” by Dr. Miriam Stark Parent. (18:23) Page
- VIDEO 19.2. Four Common Boundary Issues. (17:44) Page
- LECTURE 20. Wiseman, Pastor, Prophet, Priest: Tailoring Your Counseling Style
  
  In this lecture Lee Eclov gives four different scenarios and four options to choose from. Which style of counseling should you use in different situations? Are you a wiseman, a pastor, a prophet or a priest? Watch this video to find it out.
- VIDEO 20. Wiseman, Pastor, Prophet, Priest: Tailoring Your Counseling Style (21:12) Page
- LECTURE 21. The Power of Blessing
  
  How do we bestow and receive blessings? When is a good time to bless someone? In this lecture Lee Eclov talks about the neglected power of blessings. He focuses on Numbers 6:24-27 and explains how a blessing like that can be part of counseling.
- VIDEO 21. The Power of Blessing (13:30) Page
- LECTURE 22. Christians Facing Suffering
  
  What does 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 say about suffering? Does the teaching of this passage apply to those who are not being persecuted but who are suffering from broken relationships or heartbreak over children? In this lecture Lee Eclov does the Bible study and case study on Christians facing suffering.
- VIDEO 22. Christians Facing Suffering (15:46) Page
- LECTURE 23. Depression
  
  Depression can be caused by loss, anger, hurt or frustration turned inward. In this lecture Lee Eclov talks about common causes and signs of depression. Watch this video if you want to know how to help people struggling with depression.
- VIDEO 23.1. Common Causes of Depression. (15:13) Page
- VIDEO 23.2. Signs of Depression. (11:13) Page
- VIDEO 23.3. Helping with Depression. (10:19) Page
- LECTURE 24. Grief
  
  In this lecture Lee Eclov shares several observations about grief. He reads the email of his friend Marilyn, whose husband suddenly died. The grief journey was getting the best of her. She thought that God took her husband's life to humble her. Watch this video to learn what Pastor Lee wrote to her in response.
- VIDEO 24. Grief (15:32) Page
- LECTURE 25. Healing
  
  What is the place of healing prayer in pastoral counseling? In this lecture Lee Eclov looks at James 5:13-18 to find the answer to that question. He also shares his personal experience with healing prayer.
- VIDEO 25. Healing (19:11) Page
- LECTURE 26. Spiritual Warfare in Counseling
  
  Pastoral counselors must be prepared to deal with issues of spiritual warfare. In this lecture Lee Eclov answers the following questions:
  - Can Christians be demon possessed?
  - What do we know about Satan’s work against believers?
  - What are some ground rules for Christians?
  The teacher shares interesting stories and insights for counselors who meet with demonically oppressed people.
- VIDEO 26.1. Satan’s Work Against Believers. (18:56) Page
- VIDEO 26.2. Special Conditions Behind Demonic Activity. (20:20) Page
- LECTURE 27. General Work of Pastoring
  
  What are the responsibilities of a pastor besides preaching? In this lecture Lee Eclov talks about special services in the life of the church, shares interesting ideas from Pastor's Service Manual, tells stories that teach lessons. This lecture will help pastors give shape and language to the many kinds of services they are called to officiate.
- VIDEO 27.1. The Gift of a Shepherd. (17:56) Page
- VIDEO 27.2. Worship Service. (17:43) Page
- VIDEO 27.3. Believer's Baptism. (19:23) Page
- VIDEO 27.4. Pastoral Moments. (16:54) Page
- VIDEO 27.5. The Funeral Service. (21:33) Page
- VIDEO 27.6. Wedding (25:36) Page
- VIDEO 27.7. Dedication of Children. (17:29) Page
- VIDEO 27.8. Communion. (17:50) Page
- AUDIO LECTURES (you can download lectures on your device and then you can listen them without connecting to the Internet)
- AUDIO LECTURES Folder
CHECK YOURSELF (optional)
CHECK YOURSELF (optional)

If you have reviewed all the course lectures, you can test yourself if you wish and see how well you understand the course material. The test has ten questions. The time and the number of attempts are unlimited. You need to get more than 70% to qualify for the course certificate.
- COURSE TEST Quiz
- It is very important to know your opinion about this course . Please fill in the feedback form Evaluation of Online Course, which you will find below.
- TVSEMINARY Course Evaluation Page
- If you have something to say about how this course helped you in your ministry and how it has impacted your spiritual development, we would love to hear it. If you want to say something to the teacher, you can send any comments and suggestions to our email address: tvs.student@gmail.com
  
  THANK YOU!
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ADDITIONAL MATERIALS
ADDITIONAL MATERIALS
Here you can find presentations and other materials used in the course. If you want to study this course on a deeper level, you can refer to these materials or take this course at the undergraduate level for credits under the supervision of the facilitator. To do this, register on the en.tvseminary.org website or write to us: tvs.student@gmail.com