After Reviewing The Readings And Available Presentations

After reviewing the readings, and available presentations, lecture notes, articles, and/or web-engagements, identify and discuss essential elements and techniques for clarifying and executing an action plan with the care-seeker selected from the case study—Crossroads: A Story of Forgiveness (i.e. Bruce, Joshua, Brody, Justin, or Melissa).

After reviewing the readings, and available presentations, lecture notes, articles, and/or web-engagements, identify and discuss essential elements and techniques for clarifying and executing an action plan with the care-seeker selected from the case study—Crossroads: A Story of Forgiveness (i.e., Bruce, Joshua, Brody, Justin, or Melissa). Focus on defining the purpose, goal, chief aim, and role/responsibility during this phase. Emphasize strategies for maintaining rapport and DISC relational style alignment with a care-seeker's current behavioral position, particularly when the care-seeker is willing. Address potential challenges in this phase and suggest insights and techniques to sustain progress. Discuss how to utilize supportive feedback, tracking questions, and core skills to support change. Reflect on how to assess readiness to move into the next phase, and describe methods for consolidating progress, especially during setbacks like relapse or resistance. Consider the importance of faith, biblical insights, and wise counsel in sustaining the care-seeker’s commitment during this critical phase.

Paper For Above instruction

Effective clarification and execution of an action plan in counseling require a nuanced understanding of the phases involved, especially Phase Three, which centers on implementation and stabilization of change. This phase is marked by the care-seeker’s active engagement in specific behaviors aligned with their desired outcomes. Essential elements include establishing a clear purpose—such as restoring trust or developing forgiveness—and setting measurable goals that serve as milestones toward the overall aim. The counselor’s role involves guiding the care-seeker to articulate these goals, ensuring mutual understanding and commitment, and fostering a collaborative environment rooted in trust and rapport (Wampold & Imel, 2015). Techniques such as using reflective listening, employing DISC relational style alignment, and utilizing supportive feedback are vital to maintain a strong therapeutic alliance, particularly when the care-seeker demonstrates willingness (Hubble, Duncan, & Miller, 2010). Maintaining rapport involves attuning to the care-seeker’s behavioral cues, adapting communication styles, and reinforcing their strengths and progress.

In addressing challenges during Phase Three, counselors must anticipate potential setbacks like relapse, resistance, or stagnation. Insights derived from motivational interviewing (Miller & Rollnick, 2013) suggest techniques such as emphasizing exceptions—times when the problem was less severe—to reinforce positive change, and employing scaling questions to monitor progress quantitatively. When setbacks occur, strategic empathy and patience are necessary, alongside revisiting the care-seeker’s intrinsic motivations and reinforcing their capacity for change (Miller & Rollnick, 2013). A critical component is providing hope and spiritual reinforcement, especially when biblical insights support perseverance, forgiveness, and renewal—concepts pivotal in maintaining faith and commitment throughout this process (Clinton & Hawkins, 2009).

During supportive feedback breaks, reflection should focus on the care-seeker’s portraits, definitions, and key thoughts that reveal their current mindset—whether they feel hopeful, resistant, or stagnated. Insights into their progress include identifying small victories, reassessing their goals, and aligning biblical motivations that reinforce their spiritual journey (Romans 12:2). Wise counsel involves offering biblically grounded encouragement, emphasizing dependence on divine strength, and reminding the care-seeker of their identity in Christ. Action steps should be tailored, and biblical insights integrated, such as Scripture verses about perseverance and forgiveness, to bolster their resolve (Philippians 4:13). If relapse or resistance ensues, techniques like re-framing setbacks as opportunities for growth and utilizing pastoral prayer or Scripture memorization can facilitate quick recovery and renewed focus.

Faith plays a central role in Phase Three, as it sustains the care-seeker’s hope and perseverance. Supporting their commitment entails reminding them of divine promises, integrating prayer, and encouraging a mindset rooted in spiritual trust (James 1:5). Crucially, the counselor must remain vigilant in demonstrating empathy, providing biblical wisdom, and offering ongoing support to ensure the care-seeker’s dedication to their action plan. Using skills such as going back to scaling questions, reminding them of previous successes, and reinforcing coping skills are essential in stabilizing progress. As change is often accompanied by moments of sameness or stagnation, preparation for setbacks involves empowering the care-seeker with biblical truths about endurance, such as Galatians 6:9, to maintain momentum. The key in Phase Three is to build a supportive environment that fosters trust, resilience, and spiritual growth, ensuring the care-seeker remains committed to their transformation journey (Counseling Today, 2018).

References

• Clinton, T., & Hawkins, R. (2009). The Quick Reference Guide to Biblical Counseling: 40 Topics, Spiritual Insights & Easy to Use Action Steps. Baker Publications.
• Hubble, M. A., Duncan, B. L., & Miller, S. D. (2010). The Heart & Soul of Change: What Works in Therapy. American Psychological Association.
• Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2013). Motivational Interviewing: Helping People Change. Guilford Press.
• Romans 12:2 (NIV). Bible Gateway. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+12%3A2&version=NIV
• Wampold, B. E., & Imel, Z. E. (2015). The Great Psychotherapy Debate: The Evidence for What Makes Psychotherapy Work. Routledge.
• F.A.I.T.H. Phase Two Lecture (2015). Liberty University.