MIN 873: Counseling for Addiction and Recovery

Course Title: MIN 873: Counseling for Addiction and Recovery
Subtitle: Biblical Approaches to Overcoming Addiction
Course Name & Level: Counseling for Addiction and Recovery, Doctoral Level
Number of Credit Hours: 3 Credit Hours
Keywords: Addiction Counseling, Recovery, Biblical Healing

Introduction:
This course explores advanced principles and practices in counseling individuals struggling with addiction. Emphasizing biblical teachings, students will learn to provide effective support and guidance for recovery and spiritual renewal.

Course Description:
MIN 873 provides an in-depth study of addiction counseling, focusing on biblical approaches to support recovery. The course equips students with the tools to address addiction’s physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects.

Course Purpose:
To equip students with advanced skills in addiction counseling, rooted in biblical principles, to promote recovery and holistic healing.

Course Objectives:
To develop proficiency in applying biblical principles to addiction counseling practices, fostering recovery and spiritual growth.

Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Addiction: A condition characterized by compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli despite adverse consequences, addressed through biblical teachings (1 Corinthians 6:12).
• Recovery: The process of overcoming addiction and restoring health, supported by scriptural principles of renewal (2 Corinthians 5:17).
• Biblical Healing: The process of restoration through the application of biblical principles and the power of the Holy Spirit (Psalm 103:2-3).
• Relapse Prevention: Strategies to prevent a return to addictive behaviors, grounded in biblical wisdom (Galatians 5:1).
• Support Systems: The role of community and fellowship in supporting recovery, as taught in the Bible (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Specific Topics with Descriptions:

1. Biblical Foundations for Addiction Counseling:
   Exploring the scriptural basis for addiction counseling, emphasizing God’s power to heal and restore (Psalm 107:20).
2. Understanding Addiction:
   Examining the nature of addiction, its psychological, physical, and spiritual aspects, and biblical responses (Romans 7:15-20).
3. Counseling Techniques for Addiction Recovery:
   Techniques for providing effective counseling support for individuals in recovery, grounded in biblical principles (James 5:16).
4. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Recovery:
   Understanding the Holy Spirit’s role in the recovery process and fostering resilience (John 14:26).
5. Developing a Recovery Plan:
   Creating personalized recovery plans that incorporate biblical guidance and practical strategies (Proverbs 16:3).
6. Addressing Co-Occurring Disorders:
   Strategies for counseling individuals with addiction and co-occurring mental health issues, integrating biblical insights (Psalm 34:17-18).
7. Relapse Prevention and Maintenance:
   Techniques for preventing relapse and maintaining recovery, based on scriptural teachings (Galatians 5:1).
8. Family Dynamics in Addiction:
   Understanding the impact of addiction on families and providing biblically-based support and counseling (Ephesians 6:1-4).
9. Spiritual Warfare and Addiction:
   Addressing the spiritual battles involved in addiction and applying biblical strategies for victory (Ephesians 6:12-18).
10. Developing a Counseling Ministry for Addiction:
    Practical steps for creating and sustaining a ministry focused on addiction counseling and recovery (Matthew 25:36).

Assessments with Descriptions:

1. Research Paper:
   A 15-20 page paper on a selected aspect of addiction counseling, integrating scriptural references and scholarly research (Psalm 119:105).
2. Case Study Analysis:
   Analyzing a case study involving addiction counseling, providing biblically-based solutions (James 1:5).
3. Practical Counseling Sessions:
   Conducting and recording mock counseling sessions, demonstrating the application of learned techniques (Proverbs 15:22).
4. Exams and Quizzes:
   Assessing knowledge and understanding of course materials through periodic exams and quizzes (Proverbs 4:7).
5. Class Participation:
   Active engagement in class discussions, demonstrating comprehension and application of counseling principles (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Research References:

1. Carnes, Patrick. Out of the Shadows: Understanding Sexual Addiction. Hazelden Publishing, 2001. eBook.
2. Laaser, Mark R. Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction. Zondervan, 2004. eBook.
3. May, Gerald G. Addiction and Grace: Love and Spirituality in the Healing of Addictions. HarperOne, 2007. eBook.
4. Welch, Edward T. Addictions: A Banquet in the Grave: Finding Hope in the Power of the Gospel. P&R Publishing, 2001. eBook.
5. Kellemen, Bob. Gospel-Centered Counseling: How Christ Changes Lives. Zondervan, 2014. eBook.

The course centers on King Jesus, His Kingdom, His Holy Spirit, His Royal Family, and His Great Commission as stated in Matthew 28:18-20.