Truth in Love

TIL 515: Biblical Counseling and Mental Disorder Diagnosis Part 1 (feat. Jenn Chen)

4 snips
May 5, 2025
Jenn Chen, an ACBC certified counselor and author of "Biblical Counseling and Mental Disorders," dives into the complexities of integrating biblical insights with modern mental health practices. She discusses the DSM, clarifying its role and limitations in diagnosing mental disorders. Jenn emphasizes the subjective nature of these diagnoses, critiques their scientific validity, and highlights how cultural factors shape perceptions of mental health. She advocates for a holistic understanding, connecting mental health to both physiological and emotional influences.
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ANECDOTE

Origin of the Book

  • Dr. Jenn Chin was encouraged by Dr. Ernie Baker to write a book on DSM diagnoses in biblical counseling.
  • She observed confusion about the DSM among biblical counselors and sought to clarify its use.
INSIGHT

Purpose and Public Use of DSM

  • The DSM categorizes mental health symptoms into labels to help professionals communicate and study disorders.
  • The DSM has transitioned from a professional tool to common public usage, complicating perception.
INSIGHT

DSM Labels vs Biomedical Disease

  • DSM diagnoses are based on symptom clusters without established causes, not definitive biomedical diseases.
  • Misinterpretation of these labels as illness leads to confusion about mental health and treatment.
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