Counseling in the Already, Not Yet

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this article reflects on the work of the Christian counselor through an eschatological lens, specifically exploring the notion of what it means to counsel in the “already, not yet.” The counseling process is presented as a place in which the dialectics of this eschatological tension are present and outworked. Pain and suffering are encountered and explored as the counselor stands in solidarity with the sufferer, and yet the Christian counselor also anticipates hope and the power of change in the present, particularly as ushered in by the eschatological Spirit of God. To this end, the author explores three practices, as undertaken by the counselor, that demonstrate a sensitivity and ability to minister effectively in the tension of the already, not yet—companioning, lament, and re-storying.

An Initial Christian Counselor Internship Program for Ukraine

A few initial efforts aimed at encouraging Christian counselor training outside the west have been emerging recently. However, there is no systematized plan for guiding or coordinating such efforts. This article describes a pilot program in Kyiv, Ukraine, which provided a two-year internship program in Christian counseling for recent master's level counselor graduates. The author reviews psychology training in the former Soviet Union, and post-Soviet Christian training programs. The article outlines the internship plans, supervision, supplementary training topics, as well as cultural and ethical issues encountered in Ukraine.

A Personal Look at Paul Tournier

On May 12, 1973, Dr. Paul Tournier will celebrate his 75th birthday. Orphaned as a young boy, he had a lonely childhood but went on to achieve world-wide fame as an author and Christian counselor. While attempts have been made to identify Tournier's most significant contributions, this article discusses three of his outstanding characteristics: A deep respect for science, a concern for individuals as persons, and a complete submission to God.