Mindfulness clinical intervention taught to a client as a way of intentionally and purposefully pay attention to their experience. Many Christian clients tend to be distrustful of mindfulness since the technique originated from other religions, but a Judeo-Christian worldview can be applied to mindfulness to help willing Christian clients feel more comfortable using the technique. Unlike the secular view of mindfulness, Christian mindfulness includes the active presence of God, which helps Christian clients to pay attention on purpose (mindfulness) by attending to God’s presence in their experience. According to Trammel and Trent (2021), it can be thought of as making time to turn the client’s whole attention to God so that they can hear and abide in His voice above the chatter and stress of their lives. This session for licensed mental health professionals and ministry leaders will present specific techniques, such as breathwork and body scans, rooted in Christian mindfulness, equipping participants with practical tools to help others cultivate a Christ-centered awareness in their daily lives.
513 | Attuning to the Active Presence of God: Christian Mindfulness Practices for Daily Life
PRESENTERS
Tom Frederick, Ph.D., Scott Dunbar, DBA.
CE CREDITS
1.25
Approved For CE
APA, ASWB, NBCC, NAADAC, IBCC, Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling
Approved For CME/CEU
LEVEL
Intermediate
Summary
Learning Objectives
1 Compare secular and Christian versions of mindfulness to develop interventions consistent with the Christian worldview to tailor treatment for willing Christian clients
2 Demonstrate basic mindfulness techniques by focusing on breathing awareness and body scan exercises.
3 Apply Christian mindfulness practices to help willing Christian clients identify God’s active presence in one’s daily experiences, including thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and relationships.