Minirth & Meier, Introduction to Psychology and Counseling

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Frank A. Minirth, Paul D. Meier, and Donald E. Ratliff, Introduction to Psychology and Counseling: Christian Perspectives and Applications, Second Edition. Baker Academic, 2010.

Referenced in: Pastoral Counseling

LifeandLeadership.com Summary

This is not as much a counseling manual as it is a thorough introduction to the psychological concepts that underlie counseling theories and approaches. Its value is in providing ministers with a baseline understanding of psychology. For ministers on the field who have little academic exposure to this discipline, it is one of the best introductions available, and it is respectful of ministry applications.

From the Publisher

This standard introduction to psychology and counseling offers an explanation of classic theory and a holistic Christian view of humanity and counseling. The book includes over one hundred “spotlights” (brief essays featuring persons, ideas, and applications relevant to Christian counseling), copious illustrations, a glossary explaining technical terms, and thorough indexes. The text, organized according to the way introductory counseling courses are taught, serves as a helpful reference tool of enduring value. Subject areas include:

  • Personality
  • Classic psychological theory
  • The biological basis of behavior
  • Emotions and motivation
  • Memory, cognition, self-concept
  • Child and adult development
  • Sensation and perception
  • Social psychology
  • Individual and family counseling
  • Psychology of religion
  • Abnormal psychology
  • Individual and group therapy

About the Authors

Paul D. Meier, MD, is a psychiatrist and cofounder of Meier Clinics, a national chain of Christian counseling clinics. He previously taught at Dallas Theological Seminary.

Frank B. Minirth, MD, is a psychiatrist and is founder and president of the Minirth Clinic. He is also an adjunct professor at Dallas Theological Seminary.

Frank B. Wichern (PhD, Emory University) is a licensed clinical psychologist in Texas and Colorado.

Donald E. Ratcliff (PhD, University of Georgia) is Price-LeBar Professor of Christian Education at Wheaton College.

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