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The following articles address a broad range of topics related to our approach to emotional healing ministry. With Karl's background in science and medicine, and Charlotte's background in seminary, we are interested in, and able to speak to, many different aspects of a Christian approach to emotional healing. We use the term "Theophostic®-based" to refer to therapies/ministries that are built around a core of Theophostic® principles and techniques, but that are not exactly identical to Theophostic® Prayer Ministry as taught by Dr. Ed Smith. Our own therapy/ministry would be a good example - it is built around a core of Theophostic® principles and techniques, but it sometimes also includes material that is not a part of what we understand Dr. Smith to define as Theophostic® Prayer Ministry (such as our material on dealing with curses, spiritual strongholds, generational problems, and suicide-related phenomena, and our material on journaling, spiritual disciplines, community, and medical psychiatry).

Some of our newer material, such as our essays on spiritual disciplines and "New Wineskin Community," focus on putting the journey of healing into the larger context of personal growth, maturity, community, and Christian discipleship. These subjects are much broader than specific tools and techniques for therapy/ministry, but our perception is that they have important impact on individual emotional healing. Our perception is that solutions for some of the most difficult individual healing problems can only be found when these broader issues are taken into account.

121 documents in this section:

"The Immanuel Approach, Theophostic, and Exposure Therapy"
(posted: 12/17/2016 revised: 12/16/2016) The purposes/goals for this essay are: 1) Build bridges between different schools of thought, so that different therapists and/or ministers can avoid needless misunderstanding and conflict, and work together as much as possible. 2) Continue to clarify the “big picture” by identifying more aspects of how the Immanuel Approach and Theophostic-based work fit in the wider context of other therapy principles and techniques. 3) Confirm/support the Immanuel Approach and Theophostic principles and techniques by recognizing where they are consistent with and/or shared by other established methods, and especially by identifying where they have been indirectly research validated as parts of other methods/techniques. 4) Provide additional information that will help mental health professionals present the principles and techniques of the Immanuel Approach and Theophostic in language (that is truthful and accurate) that insurance companies will understand and accept.
Download PDF (13 pages, 147.9 KB)

"Internal Dissociated Parts Presenting as Jesus"
(posted: 02/26/2003 revised: 09/11/2014) We have found that it is common for internal dissociated parts to speak for Jesus (even outside of being programmed to do so in the context of ritual abuse). I refer to these as "volunteer" internal parts, since they have not been programmed, but rather learned on their own that they could "help" the person by speaking for Jesus, and they "volunteer" to do this. In my experience with Theophostic ministry, this is the most important source of "truth" and/or "healing" that is not coming from Jesus.
Download PDF (14 pages, 136.4 KB)

"Discerning Truth in Memory"
(posted: 03/01/2014 revised: 02/18/2014) In this essay we address legitimate concerns about the possibility of memory errors, the reasons we believe repressed memories and dissociated memories are real phenomena, and the reasons we believe that most "recovered" memories have a core of historical truth.

This essay has replaced the original essay entitled "False Memory."
Download PDF (17 pages, 157.6 KB)

""Maggie #3: Labor & Delivery Trauma" -- Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 12/08/2009 revised: 01/30/2014) [New 9/21/2009] This document provides explanatory comments to accompany the "Maggie #3: Labor & Delivery Trauma" live ministry session on DVD. In this session Maggie works on feelings of anger towards her husband and the Lord, and the sense that a certain difficult client situation is more than she can bear. After identifying the target for the session, Maggie focuses on a memory of a past positive experience with Jesus, and through that positive memory she refreshes her perception of, and her connection with Jesus. She then engages directly with Jesus regarding her triggered thoughts and emotions, and He leads her to traumatic memories from her first labor and delivery, and helps her to resolve them. We then observe that the triggered negative thoughts and emotions no longer feel true about Maggie’s client, her husband, and the Lord. Finally, Maggie reports at the 6-month follow-up interview that these positive changes have continued.
The main purpose of this DVD session is to provide live ministry session examples of the principles, techniques, and process described in our essays and presentations about the Immanuel approach. This DVD will be encouraging and educational for any viewer, but it will be much more valuable if you have first read the “Brain Science, Psychological Healing, and the God Who Is with Us” essays. If time constraints preclude reading all five Parts, I would encourage you to at least read Part I and
Part V. This session demonstrates Basic and Intermediate principles, techniques, and process.
Download PDF (12 pages, 130.8 KB)

""Maggie #3: Labor & Delivery Trauma" -- Explanatory Comments, Condensed Version"
(posted: 12/08/2009 revised: 01/30/2014) This document provides explanatory comments to accompany the condensed version of "Maggie #3: Labor & Delivery Trauma" live ministry session on DVD. In this session Maggie works on feelings of anger towards her husband and the Lord, and the sense that a certain difficult client situation is more than she can bear. After identifying the target for the session, Maggie focuses on a memory of a past positive experience with Jesus, and through that positive memory she refreshes her perception of, and her connection with Jesus. She then engages directly with Jesus regarding her triggered thoughts and emotions, and He leads her to traumatic memories from her first labor and delivery, and helps her to resolve them. We then observe that the triggered negative thoughts and emotions no longer feel true about Maggie’s client, her husband, and the Lord. Finally, Maggie reports at the 6-month follow-up interview that these positive changes have continued. This faith-building session illustrates the principles, techniques, and process described in our Immanuel Series presentations.

Download PDF (10 pages, 121.9 KB)

"Unresolved Issues in the Facilitator"
(posted: 04/12/2002 revised: 12/18/2013) One of the Most Important Hindrances to Emotional Healing
Our assessment is that unresolved issues (truth-based pain, lies, judgments, vows, other sinful defenses, other sin, and demonic infection) in the facilitator are some of the most important hindrances to emotional healing ministry. Furthermore, our perception is that unresolved problems are being stirred up in the facilitator any time he or she is experiencing anything other than calm, clear thinking, and confidence in the Lord's desire and ability to heal. This essay discusses these two premises, describes examples from our own experience, and provides a number of specific recommendations.
Download PDF (17 pages, 157.0 KB)

"Vows: "Clutter" That Can Hinder Emotional Healing"
(posted: 04/04/1999 revised: 12/14/2013) Highly experienced "veteran" prayer ministers, who were already well-familiar with helping people break out of the bondage of sinful vows, have told us that this essay shed new light on the phenomenon for them, and was very useful. This essay includes two case examples that illustrate the importance of identifying and resolving sinful vows as potential "clutter" that can be hindering the healing process. It also includes a sample prayer for breaking/resolving those vows.
Download PDF (11 pages, 122.7 KB)

"Direct Eye Contact (Technique for Making Contact with Internal Parts)"
(posted: 10/14/2000 revised: 12/12/2013) This is a brief "how-to" essay regarding using direct eye contact for helping a person connect with internal dissociated parts; this essay does not provide information about the wider context of dissociative phenomena. Please do not use this tool until you have a basic understanding of dissociated internal parts
Download PDF (5 pages, 82.6 KB)

"General Introductory Comments Regarding Ministry Aids"
(posted: 01/29/2002 revised: 11/26/2013) The purpose of this document is to gather together concepts and comments that apply to many or all of the ministry aids. Our hope is that putting this material all together in one place will make it easier for you to find, and easier for us to update as we continue to learn.
Download PDF (23 pages, 185.6 KB)

"Not Reporting Everything - An Especially Sneaky Form of Interference"
(posted: 09/17/2002 revised: 11/13/2013) A common problem in emotional healing ministry is that the person receiving ministry does not report clues that come to him/her. This essay discusses both accidental failure to report everything and fear-based choosing to not report certain things, and also includes a worksheet with a "sample" process for addressing fear-based choosing to not report.
Download PDF (11 pages, 120.6 KB)

"Opening Prayer and Commands"
(posted: 04/04/2002 revised: 12/12/2012) Prayer for the Facilitator, Parameters for the Demonic, and General Introductory Prayer
This document explains and provides a model/sample prayer for opening the healing prayer session, including general introductory prayers, praying for the facilitator/minister, and setting parameters around any demonic presence that may be there. The principles from Dr. Smith's "Stripping Down the Enemy" are encorporated (formerly a separate document)
Download PDF (14 pages, 67.4 KB)

"Let Jesus Drive (with Respect to Non-process Aspects of the Session"
(posted: 12/12/2012 revised: 12/12/2012) I frequently receive questions along the lines of, “When should I take responsibility for leading the session?” or “How much direction should I provide?,” and I am constantly asking myself these same questions. This essay provides a careful discussion (with some really cool true story examples) of the following key points: 1) It’s important to differentiate between direction with respect to the Immanuel approach process and direction with respect to non-process aspects of the session (timing, pacing/intensity, specific content, and the details of the pain processing pathway). 2) With respect to the process: it’s important for the facilitator to provide the structure for the Immanuel approach by providing lots of direction. 3) With respect to all non-process aspects: let Jesus drive as much as possible.
Download PDF (16 pages, 73.9 KB)

"Immanuel, Emotional Healing, & Capacity: Part I"
(posted: 07/08/2005 revised: 06/09/2012) There are many possible blockages to emotional healing, but one that often goes unrecognized is the issue of inadequate capacity. In these two essays (see also Part II) Dr. Lehman introduces the concept of capacity (drawing especially on the work of Dr. E. James Wilder), and then shares ways that he has found to help people overcome problems with inadequate capacity, particularly by helping them experience the reality of Jesus’ Immanuel presence.
Download PDF (15 pages, 165.0 KB)

"Brain Science, Psychologial Trauma, and The God Who is With Us ~ Part I: A Psychiatrist's Journey -- A Brief Introduction to the Immanuel Approach"
(posted: 10/24/2007 revised: 06/09/2012) [This document is the promised updated post-conference version of “Part I” of the material Dr. Lehman presented at "Healing Redesigned: Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, & The God Who Is With Us," on 16-20 June 2008, in Springfield Illinois, sponsored by THRIVE. It is mostly the same as Part I of what was presented 9-10 November 2007, in Sydney, Australia, and on 24-26 April 2008 in Modesto, California.] "The first thing I want to do is tell the story of my journey with respect to what we call the 'Immanuel Approach to emotional healing,' and also the larger 'Immanuel Approach to life.' Hopefully, this story of my personal journey will provide an overview with respect to how all of the pieces fit together."
Download PDF (20 pages, 593.2 KB)

"Immanuel, An Especially Pernicious Blockage, and the Normal Belief Memory System"
(posted: 03/15/2005 revised: 06/08/2012) In this essay Dr. Lehman discusses a tangle of wounds, choices, memory dynamics, and other factors that prevent many people from perceiving the Lord’s Immanuel presence, and from receiving the Lord’s help. This essay also presents the normal belief memory system and the trauma-associated belief memory system, and describes how understanding these two different memory systems provides a theoretical foundation for emotional healing.
Download PDF (29 pages, 297.1 KB)

"Immanuel, Emotional Healing and Capacity: Part II"
(posted: 10/28/2006 revised: 06/06/2012) This is "Part II" of the material described under the title: "Immanuel, Emotional Healing, & Capacity: Part I"
Download PDF (18 pages, 1.1 MB)

"Maggie #2: "If I leave, she could die"... - Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 08/05/2008 revised: 12/15/2011) [New 3/14/2008] This document provides explanatory comments to accompany the "Maggie #2:'If I leave, she could die' (The Immanuel Approach to Emotional Healing)" live ministry session on DVD. In this session, Maggie works on fear, uncertainty, and confusion regarding a very difficult situation with one of her ministry clients. We begin the session with Maggie focussing on a memory of a past positive experience with Jesus, and in the context of this positive memory we help her to refresh her connection with Him. She then engages directly with Jesus regarding her fear, uncertainty, and confusion. Jesus speaks to the recent situation with her client, and then also brings forward a matching traumatic childhood memory that needs to be resolved. Maggie's report at the five month follow-up interview indicates lasting fruit.
This DVD will be encouraging and educational for any viewer, but it will be much more valuable if you have first read the “Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, & The God Who is With Us” essays. If time constraints preclude reading all five Parts, I would encourage you to at least read Part I and Part V. The explanatory comments are not meant to stand on their own, but to be used in conjunction with the DVD.
Download PDF (4 pages, 34.5 KB)

"Is It From the Lord? – On Discerning Words"
(posted: 06/02/2001 revised: 11/20/2011) Learning to discern the Lord's "voice" or leading is essential to the life of Christian discipleship. It is also an essential part of one's skills in Theophostic ministry, in which so much depends on "hearing" from the Lord. This is not a comprehensive discussion of discernment, but hopefully these thoughts will be helpful when a "word" or message is unclear, or when there is disagreement as to the word's source.
Download PDF (7 pages, 43.3 KB)

"Dreams and Prayer for Emotional Healing"
(posted: 02/13/2002 revised: 11/16/2011) This brief document gives some of Dr. Lehman's ideas of how emotions from dreams can be part of the process of prayer for emotional healing.
Download PDF (2 pages, 76.6 KB)

"Addressing Spiritual Concerns in State and Federal Facilities"
(posted: 09/03/2000 revised: 11/16/2011) Dr. Lehman discusses the issue of addressing spiritual concerns in public settings, sharing encouraging research, developments in the mental health field, and his own experience.
Download PDF (5 pages, 97.1 KB)

"Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, and The God Who is With Us ~ Part V: The Immanuel Approach to Emotional Healing Revisited"
(posted: 01/06/2008 revised: 10/07/2011) [This document is the promised updated post-conference version of “Part V” of the material Dr. Lehman presented at "Healing Redesigned: Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, & The God Who Is With Us," on 16-20 June 2008, in Springfield Illinois, sponsored by THRIVE. It is mostly the same as Part V of what was presented 9-10 November 2007, in Sydney, Australia, and on 24-26 April 2008 in Modesto, California.] Having discussed the experience processing pathway, the nature of traumatic vs. non-traumatic memories, and the conditions and resources needed to heal traumatic memories (to finish the processing tasks stored there), Dr. Lehman returns to the "Immanuel Approach" for healing, and more specifics about it.
Download PDF (80 pages, 515.7 KB)

"The Immanuel Approach (to Emotional Healing and to Life)"
(posted: 09/05/2011 revised: 09/03/2011) The Immanuel Approach (to Emotional Healing and to Life): (©Copyright 2011 K.D. Lehman MD, New 9/3/2011) In this new essay I provide an alternative introduction to the Immanuel approach, specifically intended to be more accessible to the average lay person. The first two pages provide a very brief summary of the principles and process of the Immanuel approach to emotional healing, the next six pages present faith-building stories that illustrate the effectiveness of this approach to emotional healing, pages nine and ten talk briefly about the wider Immanuel approach to life, and the last three pages describe additional resources that are available for those who want to learn more about the Immanuel approach
Download PDF (13 pages, 168.7 KB)

"Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and the Immanuel Approach: General Comments and Frequently Asked Questions:"
(posted: 08/23/2011 revised: 08/23/2011) This essay summarizes some of Dr. Lehman’s general thoughts, and also the answers to frequently asked questions regarding obsessive compulsive disorder and the Immanuel approach to emotional healing.
Download PDF (6 pages, 41.9 KB)

"Immanuel Approach/Theophostic®-based Emotional Healing With Children"
(posted: 06/05/2002 revised: 07/15/2011) We have gotten a number of requests for advice, thoughts, consultation, etc. regarding using the Immanuel approach and/or Theophostic-based ministry with children. In this essay we offer thoughts from our own experience, and have also tried to collect useful material from others who are doing emotional healing work with children.
Download PDF (8 pages, 114.1 KB)

""Renae: Healing Helps Parenting" -- Explanatory Comments, Condensed Version"
(posted: 12/08/2009 revised: 07/02/2011) [New 8/2/2009] This document provides the explanatory comments to accompany the live ministry session "Renae: Healing Helps Parenting" (Immanuel Approach, basic-intermediate). In this session, Renae asks for help regarding angry outbursts towards her son. During these episodes she finds herself communicating intense anger, contempt, and disgust, and she is concerned about the possible harmful effects of these outbursts. After preparing the way by deliberately appreciating past experiences with the Lord, Renae asks Him to refresh her connection with Him in the present; and after a good connection is established, she focuses on Him and asks for guidance. Jesus then takes her to memories where her father responded to her in the same way she is now responding to her son. Throughout the rest of the session, Dr. Lehman coaches Renae to engage directly with Jesus at every point, and she has beautiful interactions with Him and receives important healing. Finally, during the five months following the session Renae observes dramatic, lasting improvement.
The main purpose of this session is to provide live ministry session examples of the principles, techniques, and process described in our essays and presentations about the Immanuel approach to emotional healing. This DVD will be encouraging and educational for any viewer, but it will be much more valuable if you have first read the “Brain Science, Psychological Healing, and The God Who is With Us” essays. If time constraints preclude reading all five Parts, I would encourage you to at least read Part I and Part V. This session demonstrates Basic and Intermediate principles, techniques, and process.
Download PDF (5 pages, 101.2 KB)

"Renae: Healing Helps Parenting (Immanuel approach, basic-intermediate) -- Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 08/01/2009 revised: 07/02/2011) (New 4/14/09) This document provides the written commentary which accompanies the DVD of the live ministry session entitled “Renae: Healing Helps Parenting.” In this session, Renae asks for help regarding angry outbursts towards her son. She reports that during these episodes she finds herself communicating intense anger, contempt, and disgust, and she is concerned about the possible harmful effects of these outbursts. After preparing the way by deliberately appreciating past experiences with the Lord, Renae asks Him to refresh her connection with Him in the present; and after a good connection is established, she focuses on Him and asks for guidance. He then takes her to memories where her father responded to her in the same way she is now responding to her son. Throughout the rest of the session Dr. Lehman coaches her to engage directly with Jesus at every point, and she has beautiful interactions with Him and receives important healing as she does this. Finally, during the five months following the session Renae observes dramatic, lasting improvement. Reading the commentary, with its analysis and various notes, will enhance the educational value of viewing the session.
Download PDF (8 pages, 129.6 KB)

"Rita #3: Jesus is Better Than Candy -- Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 10/18/2009 revised: 07/02/2011) (New 7/21/2009) This document provides the written commentary which accompanies the DVD of the live ministry session entitled "Rita #3: Jesus is Better than Candy (Immanuel Approach, basic-intermediate)." In this session, Rita starts with recalling especially positive experiences with the Lord, deliberately appreciating these, and refreshing her connection with God in the present. Rita then talks about recent events where she felt excluded; and since she has already re-established a connection with Jesus, Dr. Lehman coaches her to focus on Him and ask Him to guide/move the session forward. She then goes to childhood memories where she felt painful rejection similar to that experienced in the recent triggering events, she invites the Lord to be with her in these childhood experiences, and she receives healing as she interacts with Jesus in the context of these memories. Finally, during the five months following the session Rita observes a number of lasting changes, including that the initial trigger no longer bothers her, that her relationship with “sweets” has changed, and that her weight is now resting at a set point ten pounds lighter than her previous baseline.
Download PDF (7 pages, 126.4 KB)

"Father-Son Wounds (Condensed Version): Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 06/24/2006 revised: 07/01/2011) This essay provides explanatory comments for the CONDENSED VERSION of the video/DVD "Father-Son Wounds" emotional healing ministry session. This session provides powerful examples of how healing painful memories with our parents can benefit our relationship with the Lord. This video includes only basic principles, process, and techniques, and is therefore excellent for those who are just beginning to learn about Theophostic®-based emotional healing. It is also excellent for helping people connect with father-related wounds, and for introducing men to this ministry. Note: these comments are intended to accompany the video, as opposed to stand alone. This PDF file is included on the DVD.
Download PDF (4 pages, 107.7 KB)

"Jim: Grieving Dad's Death... - Explanatory Comments, Condensed Version"
(posted: 08/05/2008 revised: 06/27/2011) New 3/14/2008] This document provides the explanatory comments to accompany the CONDENSED VERSION of "Jim: Grieving Dad's Death (The Immanuel Approach to Emotional Healing) live ministry session on DVD. In this session, Jim works on childhood pain from his relationship with his Dad, and also on unfinished grieving over his Dad's death. Jim's comments at the six month follow-up interview indicate lasting fruit regarding his relationship with his father and in his relationship with the Lord. This DVD will be encouraging and educational for any viewer, but it will be much more valuable if you have first read the “Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, & The God Who is With Us” essays. If time constraints preclude reading all five Parts, I would encourage you to at least read Part I and Part V. This session demonstrates Basic and Intermediate principles, techniques, and process of the Immanuel Approach. The commentary is not meant to stand on its own, but to accompany the DVD.
Download PDF (4 pages, 95.0 KB)

"Jim: Grieving Dad's Death... - Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 08/05/2008 revised: 06/27/2011) [New 3/14/2008] This document provides the explanatory comments to accompany the "Jim: Grieving Dad's Death (The Immanuel Approach to Emotional Healing) live ministry session on DVD. In this session, Jim works on childhood pain from his relationship with his Dad, and also on unfinished grieving over his Dad's death. Jim's comments at the six month follow-up interview indicate lasting fruit regarding his relationship with his father and in his relationship with the Lord. This DVD will be encouraging and educational for any viewer, but it will be much more valuable if you have first read the “Brain Science, Pstchological Trauma, & The God Who is With Us” essays. If time constraints preclude reading all five Parts, I would encourage you to at least read Part I and Part V. This session demonstrates Basic and Intermediate principles, techniques, and process of the Immanuel Approach. The commentary is not meant to stand on its own, but to accompany the DVD.
Download PDF (5 pages, 99.4 KB)

"Rita #2: Resolution of Bitterness Towards Mother - Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 08/05/2008 revised: 06/26/2011) [New 5/10/2008] This document provides the explanatory comments to accompany the "Rita #2: Resolution of Bitterness Towards Mother (Immanuel Interventions, Basic-Intermediate)" live ministry session on DVD. In this session, Rita describes a childhood memory with her step-mother that includes classic pain from lack of attunement, and she then also describes the very common phenomena of using anger/bitterness as a kind of psychological defense. We use "Immanuel interventions" to help her perceive the Jesus' presence, and then Jesus helps Rita resolve her bitterness and lingering pain. This DVD will be encouraging and educational for any viewer, but it will be much more valuable if you have first read the “Brain Science, Psychological Healing, and The God Who is With Us” essays. If time constraints preclude reading all five Parts, I would encourage you to at least read Part I and Part V. This session demonstrates Basic and Intermediate principles, techniques, and process of the Immanuel Approach. The commentary is not meant to stand on its own, but to accompany the DVD.
Download PDF (5 pages, 111.4 KB)

""Dawn: Disarming the Lure of Affirmation" -- Explanatory Comments, Condensed Version"
(posted: 12/08/2009 revised: 06/26/2011) [New 5/10/2008] This document provides the explanatory comments to accompany the live ministry session "Dawn: Disarming the Lure of Affirmation" on DVD. In this session, Dawn expresses concern that affirmation and recognition have a power for her that feels unhealthy in some way. The Lord leads her to a key memory contributing to the unhealthy energy, and she makes the basic Immanuel intervention invitation and request: "Lord, I make a heart invitation for You to be with me in this place, help me to perceive Your presence." However, she is not initially able to perceive the Lord's presence. We use Immanuel intervention trouble-shooting to identify and resolve the blockages, she becomes able to perceive the Lord's presence, and the unhealthy lure of affirmation/-recognition appears to resolve as she engages directly with Jesus in the context of the memory. Finally, Dawn's observations during the twelve months following the session indicate that this apparent resolution was indeed a deep and lasting change.
The main purpose of this session is to provide live ministry session examples of the principles, techniques, and process described in our essays and presentations about the Immanuel approach to emotional healing. This DVD will be encouraging and educational for any viewer, but it will be much more valuable if you have first read the “Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, & The God Who is With Us” essays. If time constraints preclude reading all five Parts, I would encourage
you to at least read Part I and Part V. This session demonstrates Basic and Intermediate
principles, techniques, and process.
Download PDF (4 pages, 92.0 KB)

"Maggie: More Than Healing... - Explanatory Comments, Condensed Version"
(posted: 08/05/2008 revised: 06/26/2011) [New 3/14/08] This document provides explanatory comments to accompany the CONDENSED VERSION of "Maggie: More Than Healing..." live ministry session on DVD. The session is about going deeper with Jesus. Maggie begins with memories in which she had already received healing, but in which her perception of Jesus had been very subtle. We then use "Immanuel Interventions" to help Maggie experience a more tangible and intimate connection with Jesus. Along the way, Maggie also receives additional healing in those memories. At the two month follow-up interview Maggie reports fruit from the healing, and also describes poignant experiences of connecting with Jesus when she repeated Immanuel Interventions with these same childhood memories during personal devotional time. This session illustrates the principles, techniques and process described in our “Immanuel and Emotional Healing” presentations. The explanatory comments are not meant to stand on their own, but to be used in conjunction with the DVD.
Download PDF (5 pages, 113.8 KB)

"Doug: “Immanuel Intervention” (Intermediate) – Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 05/02/2007 revised: 06/26/2011) This document provides explanatory comments to accompany the live ministry session which is available on DVD. In the session, Doug focusses on the anger, disappointment, and rejection he felt during a previous, unsuccessful attempt to connect to the presence of Jesus. Doug went to childhood memories that matched the negative thoughts and feelings that had gotten stirred up, we were able to identify and resolve blockages associated with those memories, and Doug was then able to perceive the Lord's presence. The follow-up interviews at one month and 10 months indicate lasting fruit in Doug's relationship with Jesus. This faith-building session illustrates the principles, techniques and process described in our “Immanuel and Emotional Healing” presentations. The explanatory comments are not meant to stand on their own, but to be used in conjunction with the DVD.
Download PDF (12 pages, 138.7 KB)

"Maggie: More Than Healing... - Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 05/02/2007 revised: 06/26/2011) This document provides explanatory comments to accompany the "Maggie..." live ministry session on DVD. The session is about going deeper with Jesus. Maggie begins with memories in which she had already received healing, but in which her perception of Jesus had been very subtle. We then use "Immanuel Interventions" to help Maggie experience a more tangible and intimate connection with Jesus. Along the way, Maggie also receives additional healing in those memories. At the two month follow-up interview Maggie reports fruit from the healing, and also describes poignant experiences of connecting with Jesus when she repeated Immanuel Interventions with these same childhood memories during personal devotional time. This session illustrates the principles, techniques and process described in our “Immanuel and Emotional Healing” presentations. The explanatory comments are not meant to stand on their own, but to be used in conjunction with the DVD.
Download PDF (7 pages, 122.9 KB)

"Doug: “Immanuel Intervention” (Intermediate) CONDENSED Version – Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 05/02/2007 revised: 06/26/2011) This document provides explanatory comments to accompany the condensed version of the live ministry session which is available on DVD. In the session, Doug focusses on the anger, disappointment, and rejection he felt during a previous, unsuccessful attempt to connect to the presence of Jesus. Doug went to childhood memories that matched the negative thoughts and feelings that had gotten stirred up, we were able to identify and resolve blockages associated with those memories, and Doug was then able to perceive the Lord's presence. The follow-up interviews at one month and 10 months indicate lasting fruit in Doug's relationship with Jesus. This faith-building session illustrates the principles, techniques and process described in our “Immanuel and Emotional Healing” presentations. The explanatory comments are not meant to stand on their own, but to be used in conjunction with the DVD.
Download PDF (6 pages, 115.5 KB)

"Dawn: Disarming the Lure of Affirmation - Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 08/05/2008 revised: 06/26/2011) [New 5/10/2008] This document provides the explanatory comments to accompany the "Dawn: Disarming the Lure of Affirmation (Immanuel Interventions, Basic-Intermediate)" live ministry session on DVD. In this session, Dawn expresses concern that affirmation and recognition have a power for her that feels unhealthy in some way. The Lord leads her to a key memory contributing to the unhealthy energy. We use Immanuel intervention trouble-shooting to identify and remove blockages that are keeping Dawn from being able to perceive Jesus' presence in the memory, and then she engages directly with Him about the lure of affirmation rooted there. This DVD will be encouraging and educational for any viewer, but it will be much more valuable if you have first read the “Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, & The God Who is With Us” essays. If time constraints preclude reading all five Parts, I would encourage you to at least read Part I and Part V. This session demonstrates Basic and Intermediate principles, techniques, and process of the Immanuel Approach.
Download PDF (4 pages, 95.2 KB)

"Rita #2: Resolution of Bitterness Towards Mother - Explanatory Comments, Condensed Version"
(posted: 08/05/2008 revised: 06/26/2011) [New 5/10/2008] This document provides the explanatory comments to accompany the CONDENSED VERSION of "Rita #2: Resolution of Bitterness Towards Mother (Immanuel Interventions, Basic-Intermediate)" live ministry session on DVD. In this session, Rita describes a childhood memory with her step-mother that includes classic pain from lack of attunement, and she then also describes the very common phenomena of using anger/bitterness as a kind of psychological defense. We use "Immanuel interventions" to help her perceive the Jesus' presence, and then Jesus helps Rita resolve her bitterness and lingering pain. This DVD will be encouraging and educational for any viewer, but it will be much more valuable if you have first read the “Brain Science, Psychological Healing, and the God Who is with Us” essays. If time constraints preclude reading all five Parts, I would encourage you to at least read Part I and Part V. This session demonstrates Basic and Intermediate principles, techniques, and process of the Immanuel Approach. The commentary is not meant to stand on its own, but to accompany the DVD.
Download PDF (4 pages, 103.6 KB)

"Maggie #2: 'If I leave, she could die'... - Explanatory Comments, Condensed Version"
(posted: 08/05/2008 revised: 06/26/2011) [New 3/14/2008] This document provides explanatory comments to accompany the CONDENSED VERSION of "Maggie #2:'If I leave, she could die' (The Immanuel Approach to Emotional Healing)" live ministry session on DVD. In this session, Maggie works on fear, uncertainty, and confusion regarding a very difficult situation with one of her ministry clients. We begin the session with Maggie focussing on a memory of a past positive experience with Jesus, and in the context of this positive memory we help her to refresh her connection with Him. She then engages directly with Jesus regarding her fear, uncertainty, and confusion. Jesus speaks to the recent situation with her client, and then also brings forward a matching traumatic childhood memory that needs to be resolved. Maggie's report at the five month follow-up interview indicates lasting fruit.
This DVD will be encouraging and educational for any viewer, but it will be much more valuable if you have first read the “Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, & The God Who is With Us” essays. If time constraints preclude reading all five Parts, I would encourage you to at least read Part I and Part V. The explanatory comments are not meant to stand on their own, but to be used in conjunction with the DVD.
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"Grace: Childhood Abuse Memory"
(posted: 02/18/2004 revised: 06/24/2011) This document provides the explanatory comments for the video/DVD of "Grace: Childhood Abuse Memory" emotional healing ministry session. This session shows healing from a repressed/dissociated sexual abuse memory, and demonstrates mostly basic, and also some intermediate principles, techniques, and process. These comments are intended to accompany the video, as opposed to stand alone; this file is included on the DVD.
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"Grace: Childhood Abuse Memory (Condensed Version) – Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 06/24/2006 revised: 06/24/2011) This document provides the explanatory comments for the CONDENSED VERSION of the "Grace: Childhood Abuse Memory" emotional healing ministry session on DVD. This session shows healing from a repressed/dissociated sexual abuse memory, and demonstrates mostly basic, and also some intermediate principles, techniques, and process. These comments are intended to accompany the video, as opposed to stand alone; this file is included on the DVD.
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"Chrystal: Loss of Father, Session #2, CONDENSED Version - Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 05/02/2007 revised: 06/24/2011) This document provides explanatory comments for the condensed version of the "Chrystal: Loss of Father Session #2" live ministry session available on DVD. This session shows the next emotional healing ministry session after "Chrystal: Loss of Father Before Birth" (Session #1) and was filmed approximately three months after the initial session. This session demonstrates intermediate level principles, techniques, and process. These comments are intended to accompany the DVD, as opposed to stand alone.
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"Chrystal: Loss of Father, Session #2 – Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 07/30/2003 revised: 06/24/2011) This essay provides explanatory comments for the video tape of the "Chrystal: Loss of Father Session #2" emotional healing ministry session. "Chrystal: Loss of Father Session #2" portrays the next emotional healing ministry session after "Chrystal: Loss of Father Before Birth" (Session #1) and was filmed approximately three months after the initial session. This session demonstrates intermediate level principles, techniques, and process. Note: These comments are intended to accompany the video, as opposed to stand alone; a hard copy is included with each video purchased.
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"Chrystal: Loss of Father...Session #1 CONDENSED Version - Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 05/02/2007 revised: 06/24/2011) This document provides explanatory comments for the condensed version of the "Chrystal: Loss of Father...#1" live ministry session which is available on DVD. The session includes healing of wounds incurred in utero, and discussion of unexpected healing of physical back pain that occurred immediately after the session. This session demonstrates intermediate principles, techniques, and process. These comments are intended to accompany the DVD, as opposed to stand alone.
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"Patricia: First Session with Internal Parts Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 10/15/2002 revised: 06/24/2011) This essay provides the explanatory comments for the video tape of the "Patricia: First Session with Internal Parts" emotional healing ministry session described above. This session includes Patricia's first encounters with dissociative phenomena in a ministry setting, and demonstrates intermediate level principles, techniques, and process. These comments are intended to accompany the video, as opposed to stand alone; a hard copy is included with each video purchased.
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"Chrystal: Loss of Father Before Birth (Session #1)"
(posted: 05/25/2003 revised: 06/24/2011) This essay provides explanatory comments for the video tape of the Chrystal, "Loss of Father Before Birth" emotional healing ministry session. This video includes healing of wounds incurred in utero, and discussion of unexpected healing of physical back pain that occurred immediately after the session. This session demonstrates intermediate (as opposed to basic or advanced) principles, techniques, and process. Note: these comments are intended to accompany the video, as opposed to stand alone; a hard copy is included with each video purchased.
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"Eileen: “Immanuel Intervention” (Intermediate), Condensed Version – Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 06/23/2006 revised: 06/23/2011) This document provides the written commentary which accompanies the CONDENSED VERSION of video/DVD of the live ministry session entitled "Eileen: 'Immanuel Intervention' (intermediate)." In the session, Eileen describes a classic type of wound caused by the absence of necessary good things. She could feel and see herself as a small child wanting and needing emotional connection with her mother, but instead of receiving positive attention and emotional connection, she felt chronically unseen, ignored, or unwanted. Reading the commentary, with its analysis and various notes, will greatly enhance the educational value of the session.
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"Eileen: “Immanuel Intervention” (Intermediate) – Explanatory Comments"
(posted: 03/28/2006 revised: 06/23/2011) This document provides the written commentary which accompanies the video/DVD of the live ministry session entitled "Eileen: 'Immanuel Intervention' (intermediate)." In the session, Eileen describes a classic type of wound caused by the absence of necessary good things. She could feel and see herself as a small child wanting and needing emotional connection with her mother, but instead of receiving positive attention and emotional connection, she felt chronically unseen, ignored, or unwanted. Reading the commentary, with its analysis and various notes, will greatly enhance the educational value of the session.
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"Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, and The God Who is With Us ~ Part III: Traumatic Memories vs Non-Traumatic Memories"
(posted: 11/01/2007 revised: 02/04/2011) [This document is the promised updated post-conference version of “Part III” of the material Dr. Lehman presented at "Healing Redesigned: Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, & The God Who Is With Us," on 16-20 June 2008, in Springfield Illinois, sponsored by THRIVE. It is mostly the same as Part III of what was presented 9-10 November 2007, in Sydney, Australia, and on 24-26 April 2008 in Modesto, California.] As we work to resolve the toxic memories of traumatic experiences, it is helpful to understand the differences between traumatic memories and non-traumatic memories.
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"Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, and The God Who is With Us ~ Part II: The Processing Pathway for Painful Experiences and the Definition of Psychological Trauma"
(posted: 07/28/2007 revised: 02/04/2011) [This document is the promised updated post-conference version of “Part II” of the material Dr. Lehman presented at "Healing Redesigned: Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, & The God Who Is With Us," on 16-20 June 2008, in Springfield Illinois, sponsored by THRIVE. It is mostly the same as Part II of what was presented 9-10 November 2007, in Sydney, Australia, and on 24-26 April 2008 in Modesto, California.] We all encounter painful experiences. When we encounter pain, our brain/mind/spirit system tries to process the painful experience, and there is a specific pathway that this processing follows. When we are able to successfully complete this processing journey, we get through the painful experience without being traumatized – we emotionally and cognitively “metabolize” the experience in a healthy way, and instead of having any toxic power in our lives, the adequately processed painful experience contributes to our knowledge, skills, wisdom, and maturity. However, various problems and/or limitations can block successful processing. If we are not able to complete the processing journey, then the painful experience becomes a traumatic experience, and traumatic experiences have toxic power in our lives. This essay describes the processing pathway, discusses the problems that can block successful processing, and describes ways in which the Lord’s Immanuel presence can resolve these blockages.
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"Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, and The God Who is With Us ~ Part IV: Conditions and Resources Necessary For Resolving Traumatic Memories"
(posted: 10/25/2007 revised: 02/04/2011) [This document is the promised updated post-conference version of “Part IV” of the material Dr. Lehman presented at "Healing Redesigned: Brain Science, Psychological Trauma, & The God Who Is With Us," on 16-20 June 2008, in Springfield Illinois, sponsored by THRIVE. It is mostly the same as Part IV of what was presented 9-10 November 2007, in Sydney, Australia, and on 24-26 April 2008 in Modesto, California.] From the material presented in parts II & III, we know that for painful events to avoid becoming traumatic they need to complete the journey through the brain/mind pathway designed to process our experiences. If one or more processing tasks is not successfully completed, the painful experience will become a traumatic experience (and then a traumatic memory). Very specific additional conditions must be in place and very specific resources must be available for the person to successfully complete this remedial processing work.
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"Where/how do I get training regarding the Immanuel approach?"
(posted: 01/26/2010 revised: 01/26/2010) An increasing number of people have been contacting us with questions along the lines of: “I would like to use the Immanuel approach to emotional healing in my _______ (psychotherapy practice, ministry, church, small group, family, marriage, etc). How/where do I get training that will enable me to do this?” Unfortunately, at this time we do not have any kind of training institute, we do not offer internships/apprenticeships, and we are not providing seminars designed to train people to use the Immanuel approach. In the absence of this kind of Immanuel approach training package, we offer the following thoughts on how to use the resources that are currently available in putting together a “do it yourself” Immanuel approach training program. [New January 6, 2010]
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""Triggered" Positive Thoughts and Emotions"
(posted: 09/03/2002 revised: 12/15/2009) Triggered positive thoughts and emotions will be produced by anything in the present that comforts, covers, compensates, or counter-acts core lies. The triggered positive thoughts will be the opposite of the underlying lies, and the triggered positive emotions will be the opposite of the emotions usually associated with the lies. This essay summarizes our thoughts and experience regarding triggered positive thoughts and emotions.
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"Brain Science, Emotional Trauma, and The God Who is With Us ~ Part VI: Special Subjects & Frequently Asked Questions"
(posted: 07/23/2008 revised: 12/05/2009) As promised at the THRIVE IV Conference in Springfield Illinois in June 2008, here is the Frequently Asked Questions document. As you read, you will see that it is a work in progress; as we have time, we’ll fill in more of the gaps and examples, but I wanted to get this much out to various ones of you I know are waiting for it! This document addresses the following special subjects and FAQs:
I. The “Describe everything” discipline in the context of close personal relationships
II. Different types of traumatic memory
III. The role of truth carried in non-traumatic memories
IV. A widespread and expensive false dichotomy
V. Accidentally fabricated and intentionally counterfeited perceptions of Jesus **PENDING**
VI. People perceive the Lord’s presence in many different ways
VII. Using the Immanuel approach with children **PENDING**
VIII. The Immanuel approach, mental illness, and psychiatric medications **PENDING**
IX. Using the Immanuel approach with non-Christians **PENDING**
X. Immanuel interventions and the Immanuel approach are not Theophostic®.
The items noted as "PENDING" are not written yet; the headings are included just to give you an idea of some of the topics I’ll fill in next.
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"Emotional Healing, Spiritual Opposition and Physical Manifestations"
(posted: 10/03/2001 revised: 12/03/2009) As most of you are probably aware, there is a lot of disagreement within the church regarding charismatic renewal and especially the physical manifestations/phenomena often associated with it. At this time, Charlotte and I welcome charismatic renewal, we believe in the present day release of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and we have been blessed by various renewal ministries. However, we want to be discerning about counterfeit and deception from the enemy. We also want to dialogue and discern with our brothers and sisters in the wider church. In the essays below, we have tried to describe some of our own experiences and observations with respect to physical manifestations/phenomena. We are hoping that these descriptions will provide "data" that will be helpful as we all continue to dialogue and discern regarding Physical Behavior, Phenomena, and Manifestations. We are hoping these essays will provide useful information for others who are trying to learn and understand more about the connections between our physical, emotional, and spiritual components. We are also hoping these essays will provide practical insights regarding how to address physical phenomena as they occur in the context of emotional healing ministry.
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"Physical Behavior, Phenomena, and Manifestations: “Pressure Leaks” that can Hinder Prayer for Emotional Healing"
(posted: 01/09/2001 revised: 12/03/2009) This essay includes our observations and thoughts regarding physical behavior, phenomena, and manifestations that hinder the healing process by draining off emotional energy.
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"Mind and Brain, Separate but Integrated"
(posted: 12/11/2004 revised: 11/29/2009) (Draft - replacing previous essay titled "Mind Before Brain, Big Picture")
This essay presents our thoughts regarding the biological brain, the non-biological mind, and how they fit together. The "mind and brain" paradigm presented here provides a foundation from which those studying the biological brain and those studying the mind/spirit can work together, as complementary players on the same team. This essay also includes description of fascinating medical research consistent with basic Theophostic® principles, and also discussion of the appropriate place for psychiatric medication in emotional healing ministry. Note: this is a draft version (you will notice unfinished pieces, but people wanted the material and it might be many months before the remaining pieces are completed).
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"EMDR, Traumatic Memories, and Physical Phenomena"
(posted: 12/16/2000 revised: 11/25/2009) For several years now we have been observing intriguing phenomena in many of the clients in our practice. In this note we try to summarize these observations, and also share some of our thoughts regarding possible connections between our physical, emotional, and spiritual components.
Rev. 11/25/2009
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"Deceiving Spirits and Counterfeit Manifestations: How Wounds, Lies..."
(posted: 01/09/2001 revised: 11/25/2009) This essay describes Dr. Lehman’s experiences with physical phenomena/manifestations, and also offers some of our thoughts and interpretations regarding these experiences. The format is a combination of case-study description, personal journaling, and discussion/commentary.
Originally posted in January 2001; Rev 11/25/2009
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"Understanding and Dealing with Demonic Oppression and Interference: Introduction"
(posted: 12/03/2001 revised: 11/24/2009) Introduction: With respect to the physical creation, our understanding of the patterns in creation and our confidence regarding our understanding determine our practical/usable authority (for example, the ability to build a bridge and drive over it). We believe that these same principles apply to the spiritual creation as well. Our experience is that the enemy can tell when we are confused and/or lack confidence, and he is happy to take advantage of our muddy thinking and lack of faith. We are constantly trying to increase the clarity of our understanding regarding our authority in Christ and the principles involved in dealing with demonic interference, because the more clearly we understand these the more effectively we are able to exercise our authority in tearing down the enemy's strongholds and in preventing the enemy from oppressing us or interfering with the Lord's work in our lives. We perceive that the Church has been given a much larger gospel than we usually live out. We believe that understanding the patterns in the spiritual creation and walking in our appropriate spiritual authority are required for releasing the fullness of the gospel.
Originally posted in 2001; Rev 11/24/2009
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"Judgments and Bitterness as Clutter that Hinders Prayer for Emotional Healing"
(posted: 06/21/2002 revised: 11/21/2009) As our experience of praying to release judgments has increased, we have found ourselves spontaneously including the releasing of bitterness in the process. This essay carries that logical and experiential connection a step further, putting the explanatory texts about judgments and bitterness in one essay, and giving a sample prayer that deals with both issues together.
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"The Place of Immanuel/Theophostic-based Therapy/Ministry in the Treatment of Clinical Disorders"
(posted: 10/06/2006 revised: 11/01/2009) Theophostic-based therapy/ministry is being included in the treatment of many different mental health concerns. However, some critics argue that it is irresponsible, unsafe, unprofessional, and unethical to include Theophostic in the treatment of a serious clinical disorder before empirical research has been published supporting the use of Theophostic for the specific disorder in question. In this essay Dr. Lehman agrees with the importance of pursuing empirical research, but discusses his reasons for concluding that it is appropriate to include Theophostic®-based therapy/ministry in the care of any mental health concern where unresolved traumatic memories are contributing to the overall clinical picture.
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"Schizophrenia and the Immanuel Approach/Theophostic-based Emotional Healing:"
(posted: 10/29/2009 revised: 10/29/2009) This is a DRAFT version posted because of requests. I thought it had been posted earlier but evidently not!
“True” schizophrenia vs “mimic” schizophrenia: One of the most important questions I receive from those doing emotional healing work goes something like “Isn’t schizophrenia just a manifestation of trauma, dissociation, lies, demonic harassment, and other spiritual/ psychological issues?” Both review of the medical literature and my personal clinical experience with many patients that have been diagnosed with schizophrenia have lead me to the conclusion that there are two separate clinical situations, “true” schizophrenia and “mimic” schizophrenia, both currently included in the group of people carrying the diagnosis of schizophrenia.
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"Bipolar (Manic Depressive) Disorder and Immanuel Approach/Theophostic Ministry"
(posted: 10/16/2002 revised: 10/21/2009) General Comments and Frequently Asked Questions: This essay summarizes some of Dr. Lehman’s general thoughts and also the answers to frequently asked questions regarding bipolar disorder and the Immanuel Approach/Theophostic-based ministry.
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"ADD/ADHD and Emotional Healing"
(posted: 10/22/2008 revised: 10/11/2009) (New 10/10/2008) This DRAFT VERSION essay summarizes some of Dr. Lehman’s general thoughts and also the answers to frequently asked questions regarding Attention Deficit disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
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"Theophostic, Mental Illness, and Medication"
(posted: 08/31/2000 revised: 10/10/2009) In this article, Dr. Lehman describes a perspecticve in which to understand professional mental health care diagnosing practices and Immanuel Approach/Theophostic ministry, which need not be considered as antagonistic to one another.
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"Depression & Immanuel/Theophostic approach"
(posted: 07/02/2001 revised: 10/10/2009) General Comments and Frequently Asked Questions We have received a number of questions about depression, and have begun this essay to address frequently asked questions regarding depression and Immanuel/Theophostic based emotional healing.
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"Psychosis and Psychotic Symptoms: Definitions and Diagnostic Considerations"
(posted: 03/13/2001 revised: 10/10/2009) The primary purpose of these notes is to provide information for those of you who have a client, friend, or family member that has been diagnosed with "psychosis" or "psychotic symptoms."
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"Mood, Monthly Cycle and Immanuel Approach/Theophostic"
(posted: 09/06/2000 revised: 10/10/2009) Dr. Lehman responds to a number of women who have asked about the effects of the monthly hormonal cycle on mental health; here are several thoughts gathered from reviewing recent medical research, Dr. Lehman's personal psychiatric experience, and our experience with emotional healing ministry. Originally posted in 2000, revised several times since.
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"Which of the Lehman's DVD resources will be most helpful to you?"
(posted: 06/03/2009 revised: 06/03/2009) We know that not everyone can afford to just get one of everything, so we've written this document to summarize our DVD offerings as of June 3, 2009, and offer some advice as to which resources you might find most helpful, depending on what you're hoping to accomplish.
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"SPANISH: “Ciencia del Cerebro, Trauma Emocional y El Dios Que Está Con Nosotros” Parte I: La Travesía del Siquiatra – Una Corta Introducción al Proceso Emmanuel"
(posted: 05/01/2009 revised: 05/01/2009) (English version posted: 10/24/2007 revised: 06/24/2008; Spanish version posted 5/1/2009) summary: [This document is the Spanish translation of the promised updated post-conference version of “Part I” of the material Dr. Lehman presented at "Healing Redesigned: Brain Science, Emotional Trauma, & The God Who Is With Us," on 16-20 June 2008, in Springfield Illinois, sponsored by THRIVE] "Lo primero que quiero hacer es contar la historia de mi travesía con respecto a lo que llamamos “El Proceso Emmanuel de Sanidad Emocional” y de su versión más amplia “El Proceso Emmanuel para la Vida”. Espero que mi experiencia personal provea una visión general de cómo encajan todas las piezas"
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"Psychological Trauma, Implicit Memory, and the Verbal Logical Explainer: Supplementary Material for Handout"
(posted: 02/10/2009 revised: 02/10/2009) This document is the handout supplement to our seminar "Psychological Trauma, Implicit Memory, and the Verbal Logical Explainer (VLE)" -- as promised to those who have attended our "practice seminars".
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"Identifying When You Have Lost Access to Your Relational Connection Circuits, and Getting Them Back On Line"
(posted: 11/13/2008 revised: 11/12/2008) (New 11/12/08) This essay is a brief, “stand alone” discussion of our relational connection circuits – what they do, how to identify when you have temporarily lost access to them, what this means with respect to your ability to function in relationships, and then how to get them back on line.
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"Triggered Traumatic Content and Verbal Logical Explainer (VLE) Confabulations"
(posted: 08/24/2008 revised: 08/16/2008) [New 2/23/2007, but not posted until 8/24/2008]This document provides a brief summary regarding foundational concepts, such as psychological trauma, implicit memory, and triggering, and then discusses why triggered traumatic content is so important, why it is so difficult to recognize and acknowledge triggered traumatic content, and finally how to recognize, acknowledge, and neutralize triggered traumatic content and verbal logical explainer (VLE) confabulations.
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"Brain Science, Emotional Trauma, and The God Who is With Us, Appendix C: Brief Summary of Theophostic® Principles and Process"
(posted: 07/16/2008 revised: 07/16/2008) Part I of the manuscript for our seminar "Brain Science, Emotional Trauma, & The God Who is With Us" refers to "Appendix C", which is this document. It provides a brief summary of the most important Theophostic® principles and a brief summary of the Theophostic process. Theophostic is a trademark of Dr. Ed Smith and Alathia, Inc. We make no claim to endorsement by Dr. Smith.
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"Pre-Conference Reading for “Brain Science, Emotional Trauma, & The God Who Is With Us”"
(posted: 01/19/2008 revised: 06/25/2008) For the convenience of conference attendees, we have created this single document of the pre-conference reading. You can certainly read more (see the seminar info page for specifics), but we HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you read at least this document. Note that what it contains is the first section of the larger document “Part II: The Processing Pathway for Painful Experiences and the Definition of Psychological Trauma.”

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"Distinguishing Between Demonic Spirits and Internal Parts"
(posted: 07/19/2005 revised: 09/22/2007) This document discusses principles and patterns that help differentiate demonic spirits from internal parts, and presents two simple techniques/tools that have been especially helpful in making this distinction. Sample prayers and commands, and a "summary of similarities and differences" page are also included.
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"Keeping Our Priorities Straight"
(posted: 05/12/2007 revised: 05/12/2007) In a recent therapy session, the Lord clarified that the primary purpose of emotional healing is to remove any barriers that hinder our relationship with Him. This short essay describes my experience of receiving this point of correction, and briefly discusses this important clarification regarding our priorities.
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"Transparency, Vulnerability, and Self Disclosure in Our Ministry"
(posted: 01/13/2007 revised: 01/13/2007) Many of you have expressed appreciation for our self disclosure and have commented about how it has been helpful. Others have expressed discomfort and/or concerns. We have thought a lot about this, and felt it would be helpful to share our thoughts regarding why we engage in such an unusual level of transparency, vulnerability, and self disclosure.
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"Adult Psychological Defenses as Sin That Hinders Emotional Healing"
(posted: 05/14/2001 revised: 12/23/2006) This document discusses briefly the appropriate role of psychological defenses, and also ways in which they can hinder emotional healing. It also includes comments about a number of specific psychological defenses, and sample prayers to release psychological defenses that hinder healing.

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"1. Unconfessed Sin as Clutter that Hinders Prayer for Emotional Healing"
(posted: 04/13/2002 revised: 12/23/2006) This ministry aid addresses sin that is a willful act of disobedience. See corresponding separate ministy aids for the reactive sins of bitterness, bitterness towards the Lord, judgement, self-pity, embellishment, entitlement, vows, and psychological defenses.
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"Fasting to Facilitate Personal Healing"
(posted: 09/10/2000 revised: 12/23/2006) This document gives a very brief introduction to the idea of fasting, either by the minister or the one receiving healing, as part of prayer for healing.
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"How To Get People To Do Their Healing Work: Lead By Example, Change the Culture"
(posted: 09/10/2000 revised: 12/23/2006) A student in our pastoral counseling class asked the very understandable question: "How do you get people to heal their old wounds, instead of 'inflicting their pain on others'?" Here are some thoughts.
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"Immanuel: God with Us"
(posted: 10/25/2006 revised: 10/26/2006) This document is the manuscript of Charlotte’s seminar lecture recorded on the DVD/VHS entitled “Immanuel: God With Us.” Charlotte delves into the Biblical uses of the name Immanuel, Hebrew for “God with us,” and draws out essential insights, both for emotional healing, and more broadly, for the life of Christian discipleship. This presentation of Biblical exegesis and real life illustrations can also serve as an indirect and non-threatening, but compelling, introduction to the necessity for emotional healing in the life of the believer. This teaching also contributed to the discovery and use of powerful new approaches to emotional healing, which we are now sharing in the “Immanuel Series.”
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"Non-Christian/Occult Spiritual Activities"
(posted: 01/26/2001 revised: 10/17/2006) This document offers some brief thoughts about the temptations and dangers of various non-Christian/occult spiritual activities, gives a two-page checklist for help in discernment, and a page of sample prayers for confessing and renouncing involvements.
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"Internal Family Systems (Family Systems with Internal Parts)"
(posted: 09/07/2000 revised: 10/07/2006) This document discusses the potentially helpful book Internal Family Systems Therapy by secular author Richard Schwartz.
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"Lay People and Theophostic Ministry Part 1"
(posted: 03/01/2002 revised: 10/05/2006) World Changing Forces & Vision for the Church This document lays out our general vision of the necessity and feasibility of lay persons doing Theophostic Ministry -- this material was first presented in part at our Nov 30-Dec 1, 2001 Basic Training event in Evanston, Illinois
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"Judgments and Bitterness Towards the Lord"
(posted: 03/04/2001 revised: 05/05/2006) Many of us have judged the Lord, and feel anger/bitterness/resentment towards Him. This document discusses some of the unique dynamics of this form of bitterness and judgment (where the object of the feeling has NOT sinned) and gives a sample prayer.
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"Sinful Vows Worksheet"
(posted: 03/10/2001 revised: 05/05/2006) This document gives a list of possible vows and of possible things that we lose or gain from vows when we make them. It is designed to help those seeking healing to understand the concept of vows and identify any that they have made.
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"Deadly Perils of the Victim Swamp: Bitterness, Self Pity, Entitlement, and Embellishment"
(posted: 06/03/2001 revised: 05/05/2006) Some folks have been asking about this document, so we are re-posting it -- but we are planning to revise it to integrate insights about maturity stages and the dynamics of the victim swamp. For the time being, here is the original essay, sharing some of our thoughts and experience with the "victim swamp" of bitterness, self-pity, entitlement and embellishment. Sample prayers to release these patterns of thought and behavior are also included.
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"Informed Consent: General Comments and Sample Form for Theophostic Ministry"
(posted: 12/13/2002 revised: 02/07/2005) Going through a careful informed consent process with the person receiving ministry is one of the simplest and easiest things one can do to decrease the risk of misunderstandings, relationship breakdowns, and lawsuits. This essay briefly discusses the concepts and practice of informed consent, and includes a sample informed consent form for Theophostic ministry.
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"Mind and Brain, Separate but Integrated - very condensed version"
(posted: 12/11/2004 revised: 01/29/2005) This essay presents a greatly condensed version of "'Mind and Brain,' Separate but Integrated," and is the manuscript for the presentation delivered by Karl at the "2004 Conference on Integrated Healing: New Wineskins for the New Wine," sponsored by Laulima Ministries International, Honolulu, Hawaii, on November 11-13, 2004.
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"Lay People and Theophostic Ministry Part 2"
(posted: 03/01/2002 revised: 12/21/2004) Promoting Healing, Preventing "Breakage"
This document begins to fill out the vision for lay Theophostic ministry with specific recommendations about how that can be done with fewer risks and greater benefits to both minister and person being prayed for. This material was first presented in part at our Nov 30-Dec 1, 2001 Basic Training event in Evanston, Illinois
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"Theophostic Ministry and Sexual Dysfunction"
(posted: 03/29/2002 revised: 12/17/2004) We have received a number of questions about sexuality and Theophostic Ministry, and have written this essay to briefly summarize our thoughts regarding addictive sexual behavior, compulsive sexual behavior, sexual abuse triggers hindering appropriate sexual intimacy, and sexual identity disorders (homosexuality and transsexualism)
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"Emotionally-Connected Discipleship & New Wineskin Community"
(posted: 12/15/2004 revised: 11/13/2004) Presented by Charlotte at the "2004 Conference on Integrated Healing: New Wineskins for the New Wine," sponsored by Laulima Ministries International, Honolulu, Hawaii, on November 11-13, 2004. The manuscript of Charlotte's presentation casts a vision of the lifestyle of healing that comes from living connected to one's heart, and not by oneself, but in a deliberately formed "new wineskin community." That new "container" can bring a whole new level of healing and blessing to individuals and to the Kingdom of God as a whole. There are many visions of community and its many benefits; a distinctive about this one is its encorporation of the concepts of Theophostic®-based emotional healing ministry into the vision presented. However, the presentation does not assume that the audience is familiar with Theophostic® Prayer Ministry. Since the presentation was designed to be mostly inspirational and motivating, a two-page informational handout is included at the end of the document for those who want to pursue the vision.
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"False Memories?"
(posted: 08/28/2002 revised: 05/06/2004) Note that this essay "False Memories" has been replaced by an essay entitled "Discerning Truth In Memory"

In this essay we address legitimate concerns about the possibility of memory errors, the reasons we believe repressed memories and dissociated memories are real phenomena, and the reasons we believe that most "recovered" memories have a core of historical truth.
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"Theophostic & EMDR: F.A.Q.'s and Common Misunderstandings"
(posted: 01/18/2002 revised: 12/17/2003) Many have asked questions and/or raised concerns regarding EMDR and Theophostic. The Lord seems to have placed me (Dr. Lehman) in a position to have extensive training and experience in both EMDR and Theophostic. Hopefully this essay will address many of the questions and concerns of people in the Theophostic community regarding EMDR
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"Dealing With Demonic Interference/Opposition During the Session"
(posted: 12/06/2003 revised: 12/06/2003) Prayers and Commands to Neutralize Demonic Interference
In this document, we are trying to integrate and coordinate our earlier notes about "binding prayer" and "exposure and binding prayer," along with insights from the last couple thousand hours of experience, to produce a more coherent and usable set of notes and sample prayers for dealing with demonic interference during prayer for emotional healing sessions. Includes a number of prayers and ideas with which we are currently experimenting -- we are happy to receive feedback.
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"Spiritual Disciplines and Emotional Healing Ministry: Choosing Healing"
(posted: 05/31/2003 revised: 10/25/2003) Many people have asked: "What can the person receiving ministry do, especially between ministry sessions, to cooperate with this process?" The focus of this essay is how the person receiving ministry can use spiritual disciplines to cooperate with emotional healing ministry – how he can use spiritual disciplines as aids in getting into the place where he can receive healing from the Lord.
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"Closing Prayer & Commands"
(posted: 12/20/2001 revised: 10/09/2003) This document gives some observations from our experience and a sample prayer for closing a Theophostic session
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"Cutting Free Prayer Following Intercession"
(posted: 08/13/2003 revised: 09/20/2003) This document is a model prayer, based on one by Francis MacNutt, for spiritual cleansing, refreshment, and healthy separation from the work of ministry after a session or day is done.
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"Suicide Related Phenomena: Suicide Risk, Suicidal Behavior,"
(posted: 08/24/2003 revised: 08/24/2003) The general purpose of this essay is to dispel some of the confusion and intimidation regarding suicide-related phenomena by showing how some aspects of suicide-related phenomena are not as complicated, difficult, or dangerous as they are often perceived to be. Specific goals include: •Help lay ministers understand and identify situations where the initial perception of suicide risk is usually greatly exaggerated. Hopefully this will help lay ministers avoid unnecessary intimidation, unnecessary stress, and unnecessary referrals/interventions. •Help lay ministers know when to obtain consultation from (and/or refer to) mental health professionals. •Provide practical tools (ministry aids) that will be helpful to both lay ministers and mental health professionals in working with suicide-related phenomena.
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"Bereavement, Grief, and Mourning"
(posted: 08/12/2003 revised: 08/12/2003) This essay provides a brief summary of our thoughts and of Dr. Smith's writings regarding the application of Theophostic principles to bereavement, grief, and mourning. It also includes a ministry aid and sample prayers for resolving truth based grief pain.
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"Prayer for Generational Sins..."
(posted: 08/12/2003 revised: 08/12/2003) This document briefly explains and provides a model for prayer to deal with generational sins, generational spiritual strongholds, generational spirits, and generational curses
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"Binding the Enemy: Prayers and Commands to Alleviate Demonic Harassment and/or Oppression"
(posted: 07/10/2002 revised: 07/28/2003) (Previously "Binding Prayer")
This document reminds the Christian believer of his/her authority in Christ and gives a simple model prayer for neutralizing demonic harassment and/or oppression. This document has been especially written as a resource for those recieving ministry, to help them exercise their authority in Christ and oppose the enemy's harassment/oppression between ministry sessions
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"Cognitive Therapy and Theophostic Ministry"
(posted: 10/06/2001 revised: 06/28/2003) Cognitive therapy is one of the most widely used forms of psychotherapy, and competes with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the psychotherapeutic technique with the most research documentation of efficacy. When someone suggests an overworked therapist learn about Theophostic, he or she often replies, "Why should I take the time and energy to learn something new – I already do cognitive therapy." In response to all of this, we thought it would be helpful to write a brief essay comparing and contrasting cognitive therapy and Theophostic ministry
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"Theophostic Ministry With People and/or Parts That Don’t Know Jesus"
(posted: 02/06/2003 revised: 02/06/2003) We have received a number of questions about doing Theophostic ministry with people that are not Christians, and also about doing Theophostic ministry with Christians who have internal dissociated parts that appear to be non-Christian. I have combined my thoughts about these two subjects into one essay because several of the principles and techniques discussed can apply to both. This essay also includes sample comments and prayers.
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"Journaling as a Simple Tool to Augment Theophostic Ministry"
(posted: 01/23/2003 revised: 01/23/2003) People often ask us about tools they can use and/or homework they can do to help increase the fruitfulness of Theophostic ministry they receive. One simple tool that can augment the effectiveness of Theophostic ministry is journaling. This essay includes a few specific thoughts and examples that will hopefully encourage others to use this simple tool.
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"Just Hold It Up To Jesus"
(posted: 01/23/2003 revised: 01/23/2003) Many people have lies that get triggered when they think about "listening" for truth, "waiting" for Jesus, receiving something from Jesus, or by some other aspect of the usual Theophostic requests. We have discovered that sometimes the person receiving ministry is able to "just hold it up to Jesus," even though they are not able or willing to participate in the usual Theophostic process of asking Jesus to come with truth and healing, and then listening/watching for His response. This essay includes explanatory discussion, and a ministry aid with sample comments and prayers.
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"Doing Theophostic on Yourself"
(posted: 01/16/2003 revised: 01/16/2003) In this article, Dr. Lehman describes some of the issues involved in using Theophostic ministry on oneself
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"Worship and Theophostic Ministry"
(posted: 11/26/2002 revised: 01/15/2003) Dr. Lehman shares a few thoughts regarding worship, including his own experience with how memory-associated lies have hindered his ability to worship, and how resolving these lies has blessed his worship experience.
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"Acupuncture, Acupressure, and Thought Field Therapy (TFT)"
(posted: 11/20/2002 revised: 11/20/2002) A number of people have asked us about acupuncture, acupressure, and Thought Field Therapy (TFT). I (Karl) have tried to write out some comments and observations that I hope will be helpful for those of you who are encountering these techniques in one way or another.
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"Honoring One’s Parents and Healing the Wounds of Childhood"
(posted: 10/02/2002 revised: 10/02/2002) What does it mean to honor one's father and mother? How does one abide by this commandment, the fifth of the Ten Commandments, when seeking healing for wounds caused by one's parents? This essay explores the meaning of the fifth commandment, taking into account parents who were wonderful, parents who were awful, and the majority of parents in between.
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"Healthy, Truth-based Emotions and Associations"
(posted: 08/16/2002 revised: 08/16/2002) We agree with Dr. Smith that most intense emotional reactions in the present get much of their energy from triggered emotions and lie-based associations, but we also perceive that some people need help in understanding that not all emotions are triggered and not all associations are lie-based triggers. Here is a brief summary of our thougths regarding healthy, truth-based emotions and associations.
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"How long will it take for me to be healed?"
(posted: 06/19/2002 revised: 06/19/2002) Many people who have heard about Theophostic but who have never seen a session have asked "Is Theophostic really as fast and effective as it sounds? Is the healing really ‘instantaneous' as Dr. Smith describes?" When Theophostic healing did not unfold as quickly and easily as they expected, many clients and/or therapists/ministers have asked "What's wrong? Why isn't it working? Why is it taking more than three sessions?" In this essay, we discuss our answers to these questions
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"Theophostic Ministry and Type A Trauma"
(posted: 02/23/2002 revised: 02/23/2002) A number of people have asked questions about type "A" trauma and Theophostic ministry. We have written out several of our thoughts in response to these questions
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"Understanding and Dealing with Demonic Oppression and Interference: Common Concerns"
(posted: 12/21/2001 revised: 12/21/2001) Many people have concerns about dealing with demonic oppression and interference as a part of prayer for emotional healing. This essay includes our thoughts, and also additional references, in response to the most common concerns.
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"Physical Behavior, Phenomena, and Manifestations: Summary, Practical Applications and Sample Prayers"
(posted: 10/05/2001 revised: 10/05/2001) Summary, Practical Applications, and Sample Prayers
Physical behavior/manifestations/phenomena can provide memory information, drain off emotional energy, distract, be an indicator of some other interference (internal parts and/or demonic), or indicate the healing work of the Holy Spirit. This essay includes brief summary comments about each of these points, practical tips regarding how to deal with physical behavior, phenomena, and manifestations during ministry sessions, and also sample prayers regarding physical phenomena
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""Rita #3: Jesus is Better Than Candy" -- Explanatory Comments, Condensed Version"
(posted: 12/08/2009 revised: 07/02/2001) [New 8/1/2009] This document provides the written commentary to accompany the condensed version of the live ministry session entitled "Rita #3: Jesus is Better than Candy (Immanuel Approach, basic-intermediate)." In this session, Rita starts with recalling especially positive experiences with the Lord, deliberately appreciating these, and refreshing her connection with God in the present. Rita then talks about recent events where she felt excluded; and since she has already re-established a connection with Jesus, Dr. Lehman coaches her to focus on Him and ask Him to guide/move the session forward. She then goes to childhood memories where she felt painful rejection similar to that experienced in the recent triggering events, she invites the Lord to be with her in these childhood experiences, and she receives healing as she interacts with Jesus in the context of these memories. Finally, during the five months following the session Rita observes a number of lasting changes, including that the initial trigger no longer bothers her, that her relationship with “sweets” has changed, and that her weight is now resting at a set point ten pounds lighter than her previous baseline.
The main purpose of this session is to provide live ministry session examples of the principles, techniques, and process described in our essays and presentations about the Immanuel approach to emotional healing. This DVD will be encouraging and educational for any viewer, but it will be much more valuable if you have first read the “Brain Science, Psychological Healing, and the God Who Is with Us” essays. If time constraints preclude reading all five Parts, I would encourage you to at least read Part I and Part V. This session demonstrates Basic and Intermediate principles, techniques, and process.
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"How do I know for sure if Theophostic worked?"
(posted: 09/06/2000 revised: 09/06/2000) This document gives some tips and reflections on evaluating whether a Theophostic ministry session was "successful"
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"Neurophysiology of Emotions"
(posted: 08/31/2000 revised: 08/31/2000) This article describes the relationship between subjective emotions and electrical neurological signals in the mind and chemical reactions in the body
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