For most ministers, pastoral counseling is a part of daily ministry, whether it is in an office counseling session or in a chance meeting with a parishioner outside the church. Whatever the setting, ministers are often called on to provide counsel and, by virtue of their calling and training, are expected to do so.

This "how-to" guide for seminary students and ministers explores the role of the minister as counselor and provides a method for giving counsel. Renowned pastoral care expert Donald Capps equips readers with basic knowledge and skills and helps them to create a framework to ensure that all conversations where counsel is given will be valuable and not harmful to the person involved. Using a "problem-resolving" approach, Capps leads readers through:

-- How to Create a Listening Environment

-- How to Construct a Conversation

-- How to Think Systemically

-- How to Interpret Stories

-- How to Manage Boundaries

Giving Counsel is the perfect resource for seminary students and ministers of all faiths, whether you are beginning your study or looking for a single resource to serve your ministry.