IML 203: Intermediate Counseling and Coaching

Subtitle: A Deep Dive into Biblical Counseling

Course Description

Building on the introduction from BML 104, this course provides a deep theological and methodological immersion into the principles of Biblical Counseling. Students will move beyond definitions to construct a robust theological framework for care, exploring how core doctrines directly shape counseling methodology. The first four chapters focus on developing a biblically-saturated approach to understanding and addressing personal and relational problems. The final chapter provides a comparative look at Christian Coaching as a distinct, development-focused ministry.

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Construct a theological framework for soul care based on key biblical doctrines.
2. Analyze personal and interpersonal problems through the lens of Scripture.
3. Apply a methodological framework for conducting a biblical counseling session.
4. Develop biblically-grounded strategies for common counseling issues.
5. Articulate the key distinctions between a biblical counseling model and a Christian coaching model.

Course Outline

Chapter 1: A Theology of Biblical Counseling: The Doctrines

• Lesson 1: Biblical Anthropology: A Theology of Human Nature
• Lesson 2: Hamartiology: A Theology of Sin and Idolatry
• Lesson 3: Soteriology: A Theology of Salvation and Sanctification
• Lesson 4: Bibliology: The Sufficiency and Authority of Scripture in Counseling
• Lesson 5: Ecclesiology: The Centrality of the Church in Soul Care

Chapter 2: The Process of Biblical Counseling: A Methodological Framework

• Lesson 1: Building a Relationship of Trust and Love
• Lesson 2: Gathering Data Biblically and Asking Key Questions
• Lesson 3: Discerning the Heart’s Idols and Underlying Motives
• Lesson 4: Speaking the Truth in Love: Giving Biblical Hope and Instruction
• Lesson 5: Applying the Gospel to Life, Beliefs, and Behavior

Chapter 3: Common Issues in Biblical Counseling: Part 1

• Lesson 1: Counseling for Anxiety, Worry, and Fear
• Lesson 2: Counseling for Depression, Despair, and Sorrow
• Lesson 3: Counseling for Anger, Bitterness, and Conflict
• Lesson 4: Counseling for Guilt, Shame, and Repentance
• Lesson 5: Counseling for Marriage and Communication

Chapter 4: Common Issues in Biblical Counseling: Part 2

• Lesson 1: Counseling for Parenting and Family Dynamics
• Lesson 2: Counseling for Addiction and Enslaving Sins
• Lesson 3: Counseling for Grief, Loss, and Suffering
• Lesson 4: Counseling for Forgiveness and Reconciliation
• Lesson 5: Knowing Your Limits: Medical Issues and Professional Referrals

Chapter 5: Christian Coaching: A Biblical Approach to Growth

• Lesson 1: The Theological Foundation for Christian Coaching
• Lesson 2: The Coach’s Role: A Biblical Model of Empowerment
• Lesson 3: A Framework for Christian Coaching: Purpose, Plan, and Progress
• Lesson 4: Coaching for Life Transitions and Godly Decision-Making
• Lesson 5: Building a Coaching Culture in Your Ministry

Assessments & Grading

• Chapter Quizzes: Short quizzes will follow each lesson to assess comprehension.
• Final Course Test: A comprehensive final exam will cover the key ideas from all five chapters.
• Passing Requirement: To successfully complete this course, you must achieve a score of 80% or higher on the Final Course Test.