Biblical Psychology Department – Hartland College

Biblical Counseling
Department

Description

Biblical Counseling
Department

Our Mission
To equip undergraduate missionary students in Biblical Psychology to teach, preach, and promote healing with a solid academic background, a strong Biblical foundation, and a practical educational approach to facilitate the transformation of lives into the image of God.

Our Vision

To see future undergraduate student missionaries in Biblical Psychology demonstrating God’s love, inspiring hope, and facilitating emotional and spiritual healing, while collaborating to fulfill the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church through the Three Angels’ Messages, preparing individuals spiritually, mentally, and physically for the return of Christ, and spreading His message globally.
Our Objectives
  • Train undergraduate missionary students in Biblical Psychology

    to educate, preach, and treat with mental health principles, based on the Bible and true science, promoting the restoration of the image of God in man. This image is a Christian character that reflects the mind of Christ through selfless love, forgiveness, truth, freedom, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, mercy, faith, meekness, self-control, and hope.

  • Equip undergraduate missionary students in Biblical Psychology

    who can educate, preach, and promote the laws of health and God's spiritual law, providing objective lessons on the favorable outcomes of obedience to God's laws and principles of mental and spiritual health. These laws and principles are in harmony with God's law of love, truth, and freedom, reflecting His character.

  • Train undergraduate missionary students in Biblical Psychology

    who can teach, preach, and promote healing, while also being capable of winning souls for Christ, engaging in missionary activities, possessing a thorough knowledge of the gospel to share, and understanding the doctrines of the SDA Church. Additionally, they should foster hope and triumph amidst pain and suffering.

  • Train undergraduate missionary students in Biblical Psychology

    who can support, establish, and promote comprehensive centers of influence and healthy lifestyle centers with an emotional emphasis. In these centers, healing, restoration, and education can be offered through teaching, preaching, and treating with mental health principles based on the Bible and true science.

  • Educate undergraduate missionary students in Biblical Psychology

    who teach, preach, and treat mental and emotional distress while simultaneously offering spiritual and soul health—addressing mental illness and sin—in harmony with the Seventh-day Adventist Church and utilizing principles based on the Bible and true science.

Our Program
Our undergraduate program in Biblical Psychology provides an initial university education in the field of psychology, introducing students to a broad knowledge that includes clinical and counseling fields, as well as areas of general psychology, among others. Additionally, it prepares students to pursue further education and professional development. Rooted in an Adventist Biblical framework, the program offers a solid foundation in the study of the human mind and behavior.
The mental health field presents a unique opportunity for ministering to individuals and demonstrating God’s transformative love. Our program aims to train students wholistically with a foundational focus on Christ-centered and Bible-based teachings. Each course emphasizes the integration of the Spirit of Prophecy, the Bible, and science. The program is structured to move from theoretical learning to practical application in and out of the classroom, emphasizing a wholistic approach where students integrate their knowledge to achieve physical, mental, and spiritual balance.
Emphases

This program is designed for students aspiring to become counselors, practitioners, and therapists, aiming to pursue admission to graduate programs in counseling or clinical psychology.

It specifically targets those interested in obtaining a Master’s degree in School or Professional Counseling, School Psychology, or a Doctorate degree in clinical or counseling psychology from a professional psychology program. Our program covers various subfields of psychology, including Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology, and Health Psychology. Clinical psychologists integrate psychology with the treatment of complex human problems, while counseling psychologists focus on personal and interpersonal functioning. Health psychologists promote health, prevent illness, and improve healthcare through psychological science.

Degrees Offered
Undergraduate Bachelor in Biblical Psychology
Life and Ministry of EGW

Introduction to Psychology (3 credits)
This is an introductory course in the basic principles and concepts of psychology, providing a comprehensive overview of the fundamental concepts and principles within the field from a biblical Adventist perspective. Students delve into the study of the human mind and behavior, exploring topics such as perception, cognition, emotion, motivation, personality, and social interaction. By the end of the course, students develop a foundational understanding of the core principles of psychology and how they apply to everyday life.

Developmental Psychology (3 credits) This course focuses on the study of how individuals change and grow throughout their lives, spanning from infancy to old age. Changes in physical, cognitive, emotional, and spiritual domains at different life stages are analyzed within the context of human development. Overall, this course offers a profound understanding of the processes that shape individuals’ growth and development.

Social and Intercultural Psychology (3 credits) This course offers students a comprehensive exploration of the principles and dynamics that shape both social behavior and intercultural interactions. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students delve into the core principles and theories of social psychology, including topics such as social cognition, attitudes, conformity, and interpersonal relationships. They also examine the complexities of human behavior in diverse cultural contexts, exploring cultural norms, values, and beliefs, and how they influence cognition, emotion, and behavior. By integrating insights from both social and intercultural psychology, students develop a nuanced understanding of the intricate interplay between individual psychology, societal norms, and cultural influences on behavior. Students acquire skills to analyze and navigate social and intercultural dynamics effectively, fostering cultural sensitivity and promoting inclusive interactions in diverse settings.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Psychobiology
This course offers students an in-depth exploration of the intricate relationship between biology and psychology. Through physiological and cognitive perspectives, students delve into the mechanisms governing human behavior and mental processes. Topics include neural communication, brain structure and function, neurotransmitters, and cognitive processes such as perception, memory, attention, language, problem-solving, and decision-making. By integrating insights from both physiological and cognitive psychology, students gain a wholistic understanding of the mind-body connection and the interplay between biological factors and psychological processes.

Abnormal Psychology
This course explores mental disorders and atypical behavior. Students study the classification, causes, and treatments of psychological illnesses such as mood, anxiety, psychotic, personality, and substance-related disorders. They understand the complexities in diagnosing and treating abnormal behavior. Additionally, they learn about cultural and societal influences on perceptions of mental health.

 

Introduction to Personality Theories
This course provides a broad overview of major theories in personality psychology, considering them through the framework of biblical Adventist principles. Students explore various perspectives on personality development, traits, and behavior, including social-cognitive and biological theories, among others. Throughout the course, students gain insight into the complexities of human personality and its impact on behavior.

Psychological Testing This course offers a comprehensive overview of psychological testing, including its principles, methods, and applications. Students examine various types of psychological tests, such as intelligence tests, personality assessments, and diagnostic tools. Through this course, students learn about the development, administration, and interpretation of psychological tests, as well as ethical considerations in testing practices.

 

Fundamentals of Counseling This course offers students a foundational understanding of the theories, techniques, and ethical principles necessary for effective counseling practice. Throughout the course, students explore various counseling approaches, learning about the core skills essential to the counseling process, such as active listening, empathy, and rapport-building. Additionally, students examine ethical considerations and legal issues pertinent to counseling practice.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

History and Systems of Psychology This course offers students a comprehensive exploration of the historical development and foundational theories of psychology from a biblical Adventist perspective. Throughout the course, students trace the progression of psychological thought from its origins to modern perspectives. They also analyze the cultural, social, and philosophical influences that have shaped psychology over time, gaining insight into the diverse array of psychological ideas and paradigms that contribute to our understanding of the human mind and behavior.

Foundations of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy This introductory course offers students a comprehensive understanding of the foundational principles and techniques of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). In addition to exploring the scientific foundations, the course will be approached from a biblical Adventist perspective. Topics covered include identifying and modifying maladaptive thought patterns, understanding the role of behavior in shaping emotions and behaviors, and integrating cognitive and behavioral strategies in therapeutic interventions.

Issues in Psychology and Religion This course explores the complex interplay between psychological theories and religious beliefs, utilizing a biblical Adventist framework. Throughout the course, students delve into various topics, including the psychological impact of religious experiences, the role of spirituality in mental health, and ethical considerations in integrating psychology and religion. Students also analyze how different religious traditions approach psychological phenomena and how psychological principles can enrich religious practices. Additionally, the course delves into biblical foundations and the Spirit of Prophecy to illuminate the biblical worldview of humanity, the mind, and their connection to God’s plan for restoration. Topics covered include biblical anthropology, the original design of the mind, the nature and origins of mental illness, emotions, the historical context of mental health, mental health and suffering, potential pitfalls of psychology and counseling, and the intersection of science and religion.

Family Counseling This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the principles and techniques used in counseling families from a biblical Adventist perspective. Throughout the course, students explore various theoretical approaches and practical interventions used in family therapy. Topics covered include communication patterns, conflict resolution, parenting strategies, and the impact of family dynamics on individual well-being. Students develop the skills necessary to work with diverse family systems and address a range of relational issues.

Research Design and Statistics Applied to Psychology This course offers students a comprehensive exploration of research design and statistical methods applied specifically to psychology. Throughout the course, students delve into various research designs, data collection techniques, and statistical analyses commonly employed in psychological research. Topics include experimental, correlational, and qualitative research designs, alongside descriptive and inferential statistics. Through practical exercises and hands-on experience with statistical software, students develop the skills needed to design and execute their own psychological research studies. By course completion, students are equipped to critically evaluate research findings and contribute meaningfully to the field of psychology.

Advanced Applications of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy This course provides a comprehensive overview of the primary applications of CBT for various mental disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder, Suicide, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Illness Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobia, Acute Stress Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Crisis Intervention, Personality Disorders (such as Anorexia & Bulimia), and Disruptive, Impulse Control, and Conduct Disorders.

Applied Principles for Mental Wellbeing This course explores various approaches to promoting mental health and emotional well-being. Students will learn about the use of herbal and natural supplements to enhance cognitive function and mental well-being. Additionally, therapeutic exercise techniques designed to strengthen the mind and reduce stress will be explored. The development of emotional intelligence will be another key aspect, providing students with skills to effectively manage their emotions and assist others. Finally, the power of music therapy as a tool for stress relief, mood enhancement, and fostering mental well-being will be examined.

RELB 110 Prayer Coaching & Discipleship Training (2 credits)

Today many are wounded and struggling with addictions, destructive thought patterns, and emotional and relational problems. As a result, 21st century missionary training must include the principles that will help students to minister to those who are brokenhearted. This class will equip students with the basic tools for discipling people through prayer coaching.

Chaplaincy This course aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively serve as chaplains in various settings. It will focus on the integration of biblical psychology and chaplaincy practices, combining a deep understanding of the human mind from a biblical perspective with practical skills required for providing spiritual and emotional support. The course will include definition and roles of a chaplain, ethics and values in chaplaincy ministry, biblical principles for pastoral care, understanding the human mind from a biblical perspective, integration of psychology and theology in pastoral counseling, crisis, and trauma management from a spiritual perspective, pastoral counseling techniques in challenging situations, and prayer and spiritual guidance.

Christian Marriage and Family II (2 credits) This course delves into critical topics such as human sexuality in contemporary culture and the challenges associated with addressing sexual-related issues. The objective is to examine these issues through the lens of human biblical sexuality from an Adventist perspective. Additionally, we’ll explore subjects like positive discipline. With a specific focus on family dynamics, this course builds upon the foundational knowledge from Christian Marriage and Family 1 to address and resolve a variety of challenges related to family matters.

Psychology Ethics This course aims to provide psychology students with a comprehensive understanding of the ethical principles guiding professional practice, drawing from both psychological and biblical perspectives. Critical topics such as confidentiality, informed consent, ethical management of the therapeutic relationship, cultural competence, honesty in research, and professional responsibility are analyzed through the lens of biblical ethics. By equipping students with ethical tools to navigate complex situations, this course promotes high standards of ethical conduct and the well-being of clients, integrating psychological and biblical perspectives.

Copyright © 2023 Hartland College