I've come to understand the importance of supervision in counseling/leadership. Seeking supervision either weekly or monthly. It cuts down on projecting issues and eradicates unresolved issues so that the pastor (s)can minister fully and wholly. In my opinion, good supervision should include but not be limited to the following: Self assessment Couple assessment Reflection/Introspection Accountability Review of couples seen(presenting issues, consultation provided, H.W. given, Recommendations, Follow up, Conclusion of sessions) Checkups Checkup on your own marriage(issues, strain, struggles, conflicts) Checkup on how counsel is effecting relationship Checkup on friendship, familial relationships etc

Last part reminded me about dual roles. Be careful about having two roles to one person. Or if they have a role to you, as if they have a position over you, or they are a friend or family member.

Thank you so much for these pointers

Thanks so kindly for as an education

With complex issues, its astounding that the core issues or root problems aren't initially identified and addressed. It is equally astounding that over a significant period of time that parallels, correlations, relationships and connections aren't explored and investigated to determine how to unravel the problem

Within that individual assessment should include a risk inventory which includes boundary issues (congregation, counseling subjects etc) precautions, assessment of previous issues with boundaries and the ramifications

A question: What is the biblical basis for “pastoral counseling”? Jesus’ prescription for the woman caught in adultery was (after freeing her from condemnation) to simply say “Go, and sin no more”. He didn’t see the need to tell her “And see Peter on your way out - he’ll set up some counseling sessions for you.” Same with the Samaritan woman at the well - he well knew her sinful past and present, yet did not seem to think she needed to embark on a counseling regimen. Just wondering..

Can you please discuss pastoral supervision and counseling while counseling other people/couples?

Could you also cover insurance and legal advice?

Are counseling courses offered in Seminary School? Post graduate? Are there certification classes offered? Training?

I've also come to see the damage that poor, inaccurate or inadequate assessment initially can create. What assessments are used? What is covered in those assessments?