MIN 864: Marriage and Family Counseling

Course Title: MIN 864: Marriage and Family Counseling
Subtitle: Biblical Approaches to Strengthening Families
Course Name & Level: Marriage and Family Counseling, Doctoral Level
Number of Credit Hours: 3 Credit Hours
Keywords: Marriage Counseling, Family Therapy, Biblical Principles

Introduction:
This course examines advanced principles and practices in marriage and family counseling from a biblical perspective. Students will learn to apply scriptural truths to foster healthy and godly family dynamics.

Course Description:
MIN 864 offers an in-depth study of marriage and family counseling, emphasizing biblical principles. The course provides students with the tools to address marital and familial issues through scripturally grounded methods.

Course Purpose:
To equip students with advanced skills in marriage and family counseling, rooted in biblical teachings, to promote healthy, Christ-centered families.

Course Objectives:
To develop proficiency in counseling techniques that strengthen marriages and families, aligning with biblical values.

Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Marriage Counseling: Counseling that focuses on helping couples improve their relationship based on biblical teachings (Ephesians 5:22-33).
• Family Therapy: Counseling that addresses issues affecting family dynamics and relationships, guided by scriptural principles (Colossians 3:18-21).
• Biblical Principles: Core teachings from the Bible that provide guidance for living and relationships (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
• Conflict Resolution: Techniques for resolving disagreements and conflicts within a marriage or family, based on biblical guidelines (Matthew 18:15-17).
• Communication Skills: Effective ways of communicating that promote understanding and unity, as taught in the Bible (James 1:19).

Specific Topics with Descriptions:

1. Biblical Foundations for Marriage:
   Exploring the scriptural basis for marriage, emphasizing God’s design and purpose for marital relationships (Genesis 2:24).
2. Building Strong Marriages:
   Techniques for fostering healthy and resilient marriages, focusing on love, respect, and mutual submission (Ephesians 5:22-33).
3. Parenting and Family Dynamics:
   Strategies for effective parenting and managing family dynamics in a way that honors God (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).
4. Conflict Resolution in Marriage:
   Applying biblical principles to resolve conflicts and promote reconciliation within marriage (Ephesians 4:26-27).
5. Communication in Marriage and Family:
   Enhancing communication skills to build understanding and intimacy, rooted in biblical teachings (James 1:19).
6. Blended Families and Stepfamily Dynamics:
   Addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in blended families from a biblical perspective (Romans 12:18).
7. Sexual Intimacy in Marriage:
   Understanding the biblical view of sexual intimacy and its importance in a healthy marriage (1 Corinthians 7:3-5).
8. Financial Management in Marriage:
   Biblical principles for managing finances in marriage, promoting unity and stewardship (Proverbs 21:20).
9. Counseling Families in Crisis:
   Approaches to supporting families in times of crisis, providing hope and guidance through Scripture (Psalm 46:1).
10. Developing a Family Counseling Ministry:
    Practical steps for creating and sustaining a counseling ministry focused on marriage and family (Joshua 24:15).

Assessments with Descriptions:

1. Research Paper:
   A 15-20 page paper on a selected aspect of marriage or family counseling, integrating scriptural references and scholarly research (Psalm 119:105).
2. Case Study Analysis:
   Analyzing a case study involving marriage or family 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. Tripp, Paul David. What Did You Expect? Redeeming the Realities of Marriage. Crossway, 2010. eBook.
2. Eggerichs, Emerson. Love and Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs. Thomas Nelson, 2004. eBook.
3. Chapman, Gary. The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts. Northfield Publishing, 2015. eBook.
4. Wright, H. Norman. The Complete Guide to Crisis and Trauma Counseling: What to Do and Say When It Matters Most!. Bethany House, 2011. eBook.
5. Rainey, Dennis, and Barbara Rainey. Moments Together for Couples: Devotions for Drawing Near to God and One Another. Bethany House, 1995. 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.