This is the introduction class that outlines the lessons within the Competent Counselors Course.

Feelings of sadness, disappointment or loneliness can result in withdrawal, loss of pleasure, and physical discomfort. The mind, body and spirit are interconnected and the ills of one affect the ills of the other. The lesson defines these specific connections, how they influence behavior and specific tools and skills to address them.

In western culture, we have been taught that showing and expressing emotion is not O.K., so we stuff our feelings and emotions. This can, and does, have very serious consequences. Unresolved grief can cause physical, emotional and psychological damage.

Boundaries include awareness of what’s appropriate and what’s not in: physical, intellectual, emotional, sexual, material and time boundaries. Setting healthy spiritual boundaries enhances our fellowship.

Emotional, psychological and physical stress often follows pregnancy loss and termination, but is very seldom addressed or recognized. Believers and non-believers suffer in silence due to the stigma surrounding this life circumstance. Post-Abortion Stress Syndrome can last years-- well beyond pregnancy with detrimental consequences. Defining the syndrome, its manifestation and intervention resources are addressed.

Gossip is a significant social and spiritual threat. The relational and spiritual health of the body of Christ is threatened by its practice, because it causes mistrust and fear when a confidence is broken. The lesson focuses on the one who gossips and the listener who entertains the gossip.

As we help each other deal with overcoming besetting struggles, we may find that the person may have lost hope and want to give up! How we can help restore and encourage them.

Anger, in and of itself, is not sinful or wrong. In Ephesians 4:26-27 we are cautioned not to sin in our anger. However, unchecked emotions can become destructive when we fail to express them in harmony with biblical limitations. What is righteous anger and anger that is sinful.

Resentment and Jealousy: Hidden, Volatile Emotions of the Mind and Heart Jealousy and Resentment are forms of anger that develop from volatile feelings that have been suppressed or repressed over time. They manifest INSIDE the mind and heart. Not only has the sun gone down without resolution, but many days.

Addressing the struggle of habitual lying, telling partial truths and deception in order to deceive, present in a different favorable or more acceptable light in order to please others, gain position or favor.

Understanding and addressing when there is no physical finding for pain, but the pain is real. Undetectable pain and related symptoms can be debilitating and disruptive, but worsened when the person is not supported.

A concentration on feelings of defeat, frustration and guilt that drive the habit of overeating for security and comfort and the resulting state of being overweight that becomes another stressor.

A focused study of James 1:13-18. When tempted, we often ignore ways we can escape. Being aware of and understanding the cognitive and behavioral stages that lead to harmful and debilitating behaviors, we can often avoid sin’s control.

Often an individual struggles with the command to forgive from the heart. This is harder to do if we are not fully aware of why it is so difficult to forgive from the heart and how and why we must do so.

Addictions affect the mind, body and spirit. The controlling effects impact all areas of our lives. Recognizing, understanding and taking preventive measures help in overcoming their control.

To speak of the unspeakable is to victoriously face it, through the power of the Holy Spirit, and as a result, defeat its power and effect. Understanding this all-too-common societal, familial and “secret” trauma can position us to heal, help others heal, and educate about its significant impact and rippling effects.

A detailed continuation of Class #16 Part I. Class # 17 focuses on occurrence, latent effects, and spiritual implications. The unresolved trauma of Incest and Sexual Abuse, particularly in the lives of girls and women, can shape their worldview, perspectives on love, trust, authority, forgiveness, spiritual growth and self-esteem.

When we neglect the power of the Word of God, the Holy Spirit and the supporting relational protection and fellowship of the Body of Christ, we are vulnerable spiritually. Neglect of these resources weakens our faith leaving us ill- equipped to face spiritual battles when they come.

We seldom or never talk about psychological and emotional difficulties that occur when mothers are unable to make the natural bonding and connection to their newborn. Fear, confusion, embarrassment and guilt, prevent the new mother from reaching out for help before the point of dysfunction.

Purchase the complete Competent Counselors Course which contains all 19 Lessons from Delois Smith at a discounted rate.