MIN 872: Counseling Youth and Adolescents

Course Title: MIN 872: Counseling Youth and Adolescents
Subtitle: Biblical Approaches to Guiding the Next Generation
Course Name & Level: Counseling Youth and Adolescents, Doctoral Level
Number of Credit Hours: 3 Credit Hours
Keywords: Youth Counseling, Adolescent Counseling, Biblical Guidance

Introduction:
This course explores advanced principles and practices in counseling youth and adolescents from a biblical perspective. Students will learn to apply scriptural truths to guide young individuals through their unique challenges.

Course Description:
MIN 872 provides an in-depth study of counseling techniques and strategies for working with youth and adolescents. The course emphasizes biblical principles to address the developmental, emotional, and spiritual needs of young people.

Course Purpose:
To equip students with advanced skills in counseling youth and adolescents, rooted in biblical teachings, to foster holistic development and spiritual growth.

Course Objectives:
To develop proficiency in applying biblical principles to counseling practices for youth and adolescents, promoting healthy development and strong faith.

Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Youth Counseling: Counseling that focuses on the developmental and emotional needs of young individuals, guided by biblical principles (1 Timothy 4:12).
• Adolescent Counseling: Counseling that addresses the specific challenges faced by adolescents, integrating scriptural insights (Proverbs 22:6).
• Biblical Guidance: Providing direction and support based on biblical teachings (Psalm 119:105).
• Developmental Psychology: The study of how youth and adolescents grow and change, with a focus on integrating biblical understanding (Ephesians 6:4).
• Identity Formation: Helping youth and adolescents form their identity in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Specific Topics with Descriptions:

1. Biblical Foundations for Youth Counseling:
   Exploring the scriptural basis for counseling youth and adolescents, emphasizing God’s plan for their growth and development (Jeremiah 29:11).
2. Developmental Stages and Challenges:
   Understanding the developmental stages of youth and adolescents, with a focus on their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs (Luke 2:52).
3. Building Trust and Rapport:
   Techniques for establishing trust and rapport with young clients, grounded in biblical principles of love and respect (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
4. Addressing Common Issues:
   Strategies for addressing common issues faced by youth and adolescents, such as peer pressure, identity, and self-esteem (Psalm 139:14).
5. Crisis Intervention for Youth:
   Approaches to providing immediate support for youth in crisis, rooted in biblical hope and resilience (Psalm 46:1).
6. Promoting Healthy Relationships:
   Guiding youth and adolescents in forming healthy relationships based on biblical values (1 Corinthians 15:33).
7. Supporting Academic and Career Goals:
   Helping youth and adolescents set and achieve academic and career goals, integrating biblical wisdom (Proverbs 16:3).
8. Mental Health and Well-being:
   Addressing mental health issues in youth and adolescents, providing support and guidance through biblical counseling (Philippians 4:6-7).
9. Spiritual Growth and Discipleship:
   Fostering spiritual growth and discipleship in youth and adolescents, emphasizing the importance of a strong faith foundation (Colossians 2:6-7).
10. Parental Involvement in Counseling:
    Encouraging and guiding parental involvement in the counseling process, ensuring a supportive home environment (Ephesians 6:1-4).

Assessments with Descriptions:

1. Research Paper:
   A 15-20 page paper on a selected aspect of youth or adolescent counseling, integrating scriptural references and scholarly research (Psalm 119:105).
2. Case Study Analysis:
   Analyzing a case study involving youth or adolescent 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. Clark, Chap. Hurt 2.0: Inside the World of Today’s Teenagers. Baker Academic, 2011. eBook.
2. Powell, Kara E., and Chap Clark. Sticky Faith: Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids. Zondervan, 2011. eBook.
3. Fields, Doug. Your First Two Years in Youth Ministry: A Personal and Practical Guide to Starting Right. Zondervan, 2009. eBook.
4. Kellemen, Bob. Gospel-Centered Counseling: How Christ Changes Lives. Zondervan, 2014. eBook.
5. Parrot, Les, and Leslie Parrot. The Complete Guide to Marriage Mentoring: Connecting Couples to Build Better Marriages. Zondervan, 2005. 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.