Theoretical Framework
At Conversar.org we believe in the integration of psychology, theology and spiritual formation as these are complementary and not unethical. We value the information and tools of secular psychology, yet we hold to Scripture as the only final authority for life.
The scriptures and the gospel are prominent.
Our worldview is determined by the Scriptures and we are aware of the need that each client has to know the gospel if they have not yet had an encounter with the person of Christ. As a result, our practice of guided conversations uses the principles outlined in the Scriptures to support personal development, spiritual maturity, and accompany the client in the examination of his life The complexity of the human brain, the influence of our environment on our personality , the social and cultural impact of our lives, demonstrate that our behavior should not be reduced simply as a matter of sin or morality. On the other hand, we recognize that all human beings by nature are separated from God. This separation caused disorder, sin, pain, and disease of all kinds. However, we have a loving God who has provided a way out of our depraved state through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It is for this reason, neither should we observe human behavior solely through a naturalistic model of humanity. Conversar.org's professional stance operates from a middle ground, with a bio / psycho / social / spiritual model considering both our dignity and our depravity as human beings. In conclusion, we understand that not all theories or research within the field of secular psychology is congruent with God's principles. Hence, when they contradict each other, Scripture is always the final authority.
Positive psychology.
We value the research of clinical professionals on the influence of positive psychology on people who want to develop their potential. We use the theory of self-determination (TAD) as a theoretical framework for the process of guided conversations. This conceptual macro theory of human motivation helps us understand the processes that direct behavior. The TAD determines that there are three psychological needs within a person and refers to these as a) Autonomy (individual will), b) Aptitude (confidence in abilities), and c) Affiliation (interpersonal relationships). As these needs are met, self-determination is promoted (Stover, Juliana Beatriz, & Bruno, Flavia Eugenia, & Uriel, Fabiana Edith, & Fernández Loporace, Mercedes, 2017). The general thinking about motivation is that of "more" motivation or "less" motivation, but the TAD suggests that there are two types of motivation: autonomous motivation and controlled motivation. Autonomous motivation exists when a person seeks a sense of complacency, using his will and genuine interest and seeing the value of what he wants to obtain. This type of motivation can be intrinsic or extrinsic, however, the extrinsic can be internalized and become intrinsic. Controlled motivation is induced by rewards, to avoid punishment for a sense of demand or obligation. Personal changes are lasting and authentic when they are carried out through autonomous motivation. At the same time, these changes generate trust, maturity, respect, and an improvement in the client's well-being.
We use the following methods as tools to evaluate, analyze and move towards the results that the client wants: FUEL Method, GROW Method, SMART Model, Wellness Wheel, etc.
3. Values and focus of the client/facilitator relationship:
Respect - Every believer has the ability to understand God's will for his life through the work of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 9: 1) This means that the client is the one who leads the conversation, defines the goals and develops their own solutions. For this reason, the facilitator will not tell the client what they believe is God's will for their life.
Influence - Directed conversations work through influence, not by exercising authority and never by coercion. The client will always be responsible for their choices and results, for this reason, the facilitator does not offer solutions to the client's problems.
Character - God calls us to build his body, not to solve problems (I Thessalonians 5:11). This process is dedicated to the formation of the character of people. This is an effective way to develop leaders and produce lasting change. For this reason, even if the client's solution is something that the facilitator does not think will work, the facilitator will support it since the focus is always on client development, and not on solving a problem.
Reference
Stover, Juliana Beatriz, & Bruno, Flavia Eugenia, & Uriel, Fabiana Edith, & Fernández Liporace, Mercedes (2017). Teoría de la Autodeterminación: una revisión teórica. Perspectivas en Psicología: Revista de Psicología y Ciencias Afines, 14(2),105-115.[fecha de Consulta 4 de Abril de 2020]. ISSN: 1668-7175. Disponible en: https://www.redalyc.org/articulo.oa?id=4835/483555396010