Cognitive-Existential Family Therapy: A Proposed Theoretical Integration Model for Pastoral Counselors

J Pastoral Care Counsel. 2015 Mar;69(1):34-9. doi: 10.1177/1542305015572956. Epub 2015 Apr 21.

Abstract

Fundamental Christianity and psychology are frequently viewed as incompatible pursuits. However, proponents of the integrationist movement posit that pastoral counselors can utilize principles from psychology if they adopt the premise that all truth is God's truth. Assuming this perspective, Cognitive-Existential Family Therapy (CEFT) - a theoretical integration model compatible with Christian fundamentalism - is proposed. The philosophical assumptions and models of personality, health, and abnormality are explored. Additionally, the article provides an overview of the therapeutic process.

Keywords: cognitive restructuring; core schemas; existentialism; meaning-making; theoretical integration.

MeSH terms

  • Clergy / ethics*
  • Existentialism*
  • Family Health
  • Humans
  • Models, Psychological*
  • Pastoral Care / organization & administration*
  • Philosophy, Medical
  • Professional-Family Relations / ethics*