Summary:
Disafiliation from a church for various reasons has been a common issue within mental health practice. These willing Christian clients can be divided into two groups, namely: 1) those who have been hurt by the church and have lost a deep sense of belonging to the Christian community, and 2) those who find the confirmation of their faith socially and functionally rewarding but do not experience any deeper meaning in it. In this workshop, participants will explore each group of Christian believers that licensed mental health professionals, ministry leaders, and coaches see in their sessions, how to know the difference between the two groups, and what each group is looking for from their faith-based organization and not receiving in a satisfactory manner. Furthermore, participants will analyze how doctrinal differences can be a factor leading to conflict between leaders and members, or between different groups within the church, and may contribute to disaffiliation. Soul care techniques will be outlined for disaffiliation, such as creation of a therapeutic paradox, the use of guided imagery and a metaphorical space for healing, and the use of Christ-centered Sandtray.
Learning Objectives:
Examine trends in Christians leaving the church and identify and discuss causation factors of association with disaffiliation
Explain the concept “believing but not belonging” and the role of avoidance
Outline the core dimensions of Christian community, connection and belonging and demonstrate three Christ-centered soul care techniques for willing Christian clients who are hurt by the church or seeking spiritual direction