John C. Ford (2) (1902–1989)

"This is one of the most helpful books I've read on counseling. I was surprised especially coming from my evangelical background. The book begins by laying some foundation on the Catholic Churches magisterium. Of course Protestant Churches have their own magisterium (we just don't like to admit it). Once you work through that, the authors explore human responsibility, beginning with the premise that there are normal people and that normal people are free people. However, a good counselor will do a lot of listening and asking intelligent questions before challenging or developing a plan to help the counselee. The book was written in the 50's so they have a few chapters on Freud and psychiatry. The book provides a good history of where we have come from. Quite critical of Freud, yet recognizing his accomplishments. Freud was a materalist and denied any truth about the reality of God. This book recognizes the importance of understanding peoples' situations while afirming the reality of God and the great moral truths of the Christian faith. This book is a great book for any Christian counselor."… (mer)