When critiquing the theories above, it may be helpful to first identify the position

these theories come from. Kirwan (1986) describes four basic counselling
positions. These are:

The un-Christian view: Biblical values may be of some value, but they must
never be allowed to interfere with the therapeutic process. The majority of mental
health professionals hold this view. It assumes that human reason is the ultimate
source of truth.

Spiritualised view: All emotional disturbances are spiritual problems. All emotional
disturbances stem from violating certain scriptural principles. Obeying God's
Word is the answer to all mental problems. Repentance and confession of
conscious sin is the key to healing. Revelation supersedes reason and may be
contrary to reason. This position repudiates any psychological truth or insight that
comes from a non-Christian source.

Parallel view: This view holds a belief in the principles of psychology and skill in
their application. However there is little overlap of belief in God and psychology,
which are kept independent of each other. Biblical words like 'sin' and 'faith' may be
replaced in the counselling office with 'acting out' and 'obsession'. It is accepted that
both reason and revelation are relevant in counselling. There is a use of God's truth
in counselling, as well as principles of psychology and counselling, but they are not
integrated.

Integrated view: This view blends Scripture with psychology. There is a vast
appreciation of psychology and skill in application, as well as serious commitment
to Christ and the Bible. An integrated view does not see psychology and the Bible as
functioning independently in different spheres. The counsellor has the ability to put
together the truths of psychology and the Bible in harmonious ways. Since God
is the author of both revelation and reason, all truth is ultimately part of a unified or
integrated whole. The integrated view stresses not only the scriptural message
concerning sin and salvation, but also the cultural mandate that God has given us to
replenish and master the earth. To fulfil God's mandate, we are obliged to
learn all we can about His handiwork, including ourselves. There is an emphasis on
God's providence, sovereignty and active relevance to all His creation,
alongside good news of salvation.

For Jones and Butman (1991, pp. 397-398), the dimensions of a comprehensive
Christian counselling approach would embody:

a deep appreciation of the value of being human and of individual human

beings
a vision of our need for a love relationship with our Creator, attainable only
through the forgiveness offered through the death of Jesus Christ
an understanding of the essential place of the work of the Holy Spirit in
ultimate healing
an understanding of our intrinsic purposefulness and need for meaning