Question

The Martin text talks about being nonjudgmental and accepting towards clients yet Christians have often been accused of being judgmental and self-righteous in their relationships with others. We know from research that a nonjudgmental orientation in counseling is crucial for change to occur. Discuss specific ways you can maintain a nonjudgmental stance towards clients while at the same time remaining true to your Christian values and theology.

Answer 1

During the 31/2 years of ministry of Jesus on this earth, he served multitudes of people. He healed people and fed people without being judgemental towards them. He had empathy for them. The four Gospels of the Bible gives multiple accounts that Jesus ever ignored those who went them with heavy heart, had pronounced jugdement and exemplified himself as the most righteous. Instead Jesus approach to people was always empathetic, tolerant and had a listening heart with kindness and compassion. Hence, Christian values teaches to be sensitive, empathetic and kind as Jesus was.This should be the stance while dealing with the clients. The important consideration should be that:

• They are individuals who need help.
• There should be empathy and any sort of judgement should be always avoided.
• Respect for the individual preferences and choices of the clients.
• The counselors should self reflect about their beliefs and values as to avoid them as hurdles in the process of counseling,so that there's maximum benefit for the clients.