christian counseling today
Vol. 20 no. 2
9
Beyond the distinctions found in
specific disorders, proper assessment
and diagnosis is crucial to ensure chil-
dren receive the right treatments and
interventions for ongoing pro-social
growth and change. Researcher and
clinical supervisor, Gary Sibcy, provides
an excellent overview of not only
assessment strategies and instruments,
but also treatment programs that have
been subjected to rigorous research
and represent a best practices review.
Josephine Olson examines the thera-
peutic powers of play in promoting
healing and resilience in children, and
psychiatrist, John Kuhnley, apprises the
reader when psychotropic medications
are indicated and for what conditions.
On one hand, to see the world
through a child’s eyes is to see the
wonder of discovery, the beauty of
innocence, and the hope that each day
brings with it the promise of a brand-
new adventure. On the other hand,
to see the world through a child’s eyes
can also bring the terror of abusive and
traumatic events, the loss of innocence,
and the fear that each day brings with
it a measure of uncertainty, doubt and
still another loss. Yet, it is the incredible
power of childlike faith that often
captures the heart of a believer and
transforms a person into the presence
of the Savior—accepting Him for who
He is, trusting Him for the things that
are not fully understood or seen, and
knowing that in Him all things can,
and will, work together for what is
good. As Christian counselors and care-
givers, we must preserve and protect,
teach and empower, and bind up and
heal those who are the most vulnerable
among us.
✠
On one hand, to see the world through a child’s eyes is to see the wonder of discovery,
the beauty of innocence, and the hope that each day brings with it the promise of a
brand-new adventure. On the other hand, to see the world through a child’s eyes can
also bring the terror of abusive and traumatic events, the loss of innocence, and the fear
that each day brings with it a measure of uncertainty, doubt and still another loss.
