David W. Augsburger

This book introduces the foundations of a distinctively Christian approach to counseling. Christians who counsel, counselors who are Christian - what is the difference? What makes Christian counseling distinctive from secular counseling approaches? In this book, Malony and Augsburger introduce the substance and method, including family systems methodology, of Christian counseling as a major voice. The book also includes: How to do a faith assessment? How to collaborate, consult, and refer? The centrality of Christ in the counseling process; How to address issues of sexual and cultural diversity with sensitivity? and, the destiny of Christian counseling.

Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the word hate is being used in our society more than ever, argues respected teacher and author David Augsburger, yet we still most often see hate in others and refuse to see it in ourselves. This book is at once a psychological, theological, and sociological analysis of hate and an argument for moving from hatred to compassion in our dealings with others. Augsburger explores the different levels of hate, which he believes range across a continuum, from extremely destructive to constructive patterns of hating. As he discusses how it is possible for hatred to become compassion, Augsburger helps the reader understand hate as it operates in ourselves and in others, and he proposes a path to help us move away from violent expressions of hate.

Using resources from Scripture, theology, and the social sciences, pastoral counselor David Augsburger explores the complicated issues of Christian forgiveness and reconciliation and their real-world applications. Comprehensive in scope and fully illustrated with numerous charts, graphs, case studies, and parables, Helping People Forgive is a unique and essential resource for clergy and pastoral counselors.

David Augsburger believes conflict is inevitable in human life, but that it is essential and can be quite constructive. He proposes a shift to an "international" approach in resolving conflict. He focuses on interpersonal and group conflicts and provides a comparison of conflict patterns within and among various cultures.

In this book David Augsburger discusses the dynamics of pastoral care and counseling across cultural lines. Augsburger combines theology with global perspective and cultural sensitivity to posit an inclusive understanding of pastoral care. This book will be of great interest to pastoral counselors in both academic and practical contexts.