Speak The Truth EP. 174 Learning to Listen: Essential Skills for Every Counselor W/Author Joseph Hussung
Jul 14, 2025
In a thought-provoking discussion, Joseph Hussung, Director of Ministry Partnerships at Fieldstone Counseling and author of 'Learning to Listen,' sheds light on the art of listening in counseling. He shares his inspiration for the book and introduces the GRACE acronym—Gaze, Relax, Align, Connect, Engage—as a vital tool for effective communication. The conversation underscores the impact of empathy and context in listener-counselee relationships, while also offering practical strategies to enhance active listening skills and navigate complex interactions.
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From Pastor To Fieldstone Counselor
- Joseph Hussung transitioned from 15 years in varied pastoral roles to vocational biblical counseling and supervisory work at Fieldstone Counseling. He now directs ministry partnerships and recruitment while living in Hopkinsville, Kentucky with his family.
A Gap In Counseling Literature
- Hussung wrote Learning to Listen from his dissertation on empathy and a perceived gap in biblical counseling literature on practical skill development. He argues few standalone books focus solely on counseling skills like listening.
Why Purpose, Posture, Practice Matter
- Hussung structures skill training as purpose, posture, and practice to connect wisdom with technique and prevent mechanistic or manipulative behavior. Knowing why, embodying right character, and practicing technique keep counseling faithful and effective.
