Christian Counselling Training that Integrates Faith, Skills & Purpose
Do you feel called to help others through life’s challenges, with both faith and practical skill? At aifc, we equip Christians to become qualified counsellors who serve with compassion, wisdom, and professionalism. Whether you’re a pastor, chaplain, teacher, nurse, or exploring a new path, Christian Counselling could be the next step in your journey to…
Depression Or A Simple Case Of The Blues?
From time to time we can become sad. However, depression is more than sadness or a case of the blues. Dr Henry Cloud explains the difference and what we can do to beat depression.
What Is Christian Counselling & How Does Psychology Fit In?
Christian counselling that aligns itself with God's word is done correctly when it doesn't hinder the work of the Holy Spirit.
Born With Purpose and An Identity
Finding purpose in everyday life can be challenging and rewarding. Knowing who we are in Christ gives us an identity, purpose and a destiny.
Vicky Robertson – aifc Graduate & Family Counsellor
Studying at aifc prepared Vicky Robertson for employment in a program called The Family Intervention Service as a Family Counsellor.
But This, But That – Excuses Get In The Way
Are you big on 'BUTS? Many of us are so busy looking for excuses not to do the things we ought to do, that we've become big on 'buts.'
The Typical Counselling Room A Safe Place To Talk
Seeing a qualified counsellor for the first time without knowing what to expect can make us a little nervous. Lack of knowledge can also lead to misconceptions about counsellors, leading some to shun the counselling room for fear of judgement, or for concerns about breaches of confidentiality. What do trained counsellors do, what happens in…
Debilitating Aspects Of Living With An Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety can be extremely debilitating and difficult to live with if left untreated. Psychologist, speaker and best selling author Harriet Lerner Ph.D. writes about the debilitating effects of anxiety in her article titled “The top 9 Reasons Why I hate Anxiety’
Is Your Emotional Support Person A Narcissist?
We all want someone trustworthy to confide in. However, narcissists are not the kind of people we want to open up to. Here's how to tell if your emotional support person has NPD.
I Didn’t See Myself Studying A Christian Counselling Course
When two of my sisters were studying aifc counselling courses they would encourage me to enrol in a course. While I was happy for them to be growing, and understood their passion, I told myself, “It’s not for me. What could I possibly get out of it?” I was focused on, and equally as passionate…
The Need For Mental Health Support Within The Church
Recently ‘Christianity Today’ addressed a very important topic on; ‘The Christian Struggle with Mental Illness’ showing that many Christians who are directly affected by a mental illness aren’t talking about it. Most that aren’t directly impacted with a mental health problem have a family member or know someone who is. Churches need to be the community’s ‘go…
aifc Open Day in Melbourne – 19th Nov 2016
You’re invited to attend the aifc Open day in Melbourne on Friday on Saturday 19th November from 12:30 – 4pm Box Hill Town Hall, 1022 Whitehorse Rd, Box Hill Learn more about our accredited Christian counselling courses, discover your options, and talk to our tutors who will be on hand to answer all of your…
Feeling Like I don’t Fit In
From the time we begin school we start to feel that pressure to fit in with the world around us. Chris Thomas tells us a very personal story about his struggle to fit in in his blog appropriately titled, ‘I Don’t Fit In.” Most of my childhood was a battle to fit in. Maybe yours…
Lost for Words – What To Say (& Not) To Someone Who’s Grieving
When Amanda picked up the phone, nothing could prepare her for what she was about to hear. Her best friend’s little girl had drowned in the family pool. There was a long pause. Grappling with her own shock and disbelief, Amanda realised there were no words. She couldn’t think of a single thing to say…
Repairing Trust Violations With A Heartfelt Apology
Research shows why some apologies are more effective than others. Two studies have reported that there are six components of an apology. Additionally, repairing trust violations were seen as more compelling than expressions of remorse for integrity based violations. Apologies are central to conflict management. When we hurt someone a quick apology with an expression…
Finding The Right Christian Counsellor
Choosing the right counsellor can be a daunting experience if we don’t know what to look for. Just because a person can refer to themselves as a ‘counsellor’ doesn’t mean that the counsellor is trained. People who call themselves ‘A professional counsellor’ must possess the training, the skills & the accredited credentials. Most Christians go…
Shedding Some Light On Marriage Counselling
A marriage doesn’t necessarily have to be on the rocks for a couple to seek the help of a professional marriage counsellor. These highly skilled trained listeners can help couples face their unresolved issues in a friendly, confidential and non-threatening environment. The bible points out the importance of receiving wise counsel. Proverbs 11:14 “Where there is no guidance,…
A Window into Widowhood and Loss (Part 2 of 2)
As a Christian, firstly I turned to Christ and secondly to a counsellor. Let’s look at the issue of counselling first. My husband and I had some counselling in the first few months after his diagnosis. This was mainly focused on our communication skills, as he had shut down and for the first time in…
