Counseling GPT

Manual Book Christian Counseling GPT (AI Application for Christian and Biblical Counseling)

By: SABDA Foundation

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................. ...............II
2. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................... 1
3. PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT ............................................................................................ 1
4. PHILOSOPHY.................................................................................................................................. 1
5. GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE SYSTEM....................................................................................... 1
6. MAIN OBJECTIVES OF THE SYSTEM ......................................................................................... 1
7. TARGET USERS...................................................................................................................... 1
8. MAIN FEATURES.......................................... .................................................................................. 2
9. ADDITIONAL FEATURES ................................................................................................................... 2
10. PRACTICAL USER GUIDE .................................................................................................... 6
11. FOR GENERAL USERS...................................................................................................... 6
12. FOR COUNSELORS (MENTORS/SERVICE PROVIDERS) ....................................................................... 9
13. RECOMMENDED METHODS............................................................................................ 12
14. TROUBLESHOOTING.......................................................... 13
15. PROBLEM 1: UNABLE TO LOG IN OR ACCESS THE SERVICE ....................................... ............ 13
16. ISSUE 2: GPT COUNSELING IS NOT RESPONDING............................................................ 14
17. PROBLEM 3: RESPONSE IS NOT AS EXPECTED (TOO GENERAL) ................................. 14
18. PROBLEM 4: WANT TO CHANGE LANGUAGE, E.G., ENGLISH............................................ 14
19. PROBLEM 5: CANNOT FIND RELEVANT VERSES.................................................. 15
20. PROBLEM 6: FEAR THAT MY DATA WILL BE MISUSED ......................................................... 15
21. NOTES.............................................................................................................................. 15
22. SUPPORT CONTACT ............................................................................................................ 16

INTRODUCTION 1. Purpose of This Document

This user manual was created to provide an overview and guidance for users on how to make the most of Christian Counseling GPT.

2. Philosophy

Christian Counseling GPT was born from the AI-4-GOD! movement, based on the IT-4-GOD! vision of the SABDA Foundation. This movement affirms that everything, including AI technology, was created by God and for God (Colossians 1:16). AI is not the goal, but rather a tool that God has permitted to exist in this age to be used for His glory. AI-4-GOD! places God’s Word at the center so that every use of technology is directed toward glorifying God’s name.

In the spirit of the AI-4-GOD! movement, Christian Counseling GPT serves as a Bible-based counseling tool. Its purpose is to help people avoid being swept away by the world’s misleading information, but rather to be guided to grow in faith, receive comfort, strength, and life guidance in accordance with the Word. Thus, this AI-based counseling ministry becomes a tangible part of the grand vision of the AI-4-GOD!

3. General System Description

Christian Counseling GPT is a Custom GPT developed by the SABDA Foundation, designed to accompany and assist in counseling ministry. Christian Counseling GPT provides responses based on God’s Word from the Bible and biblical materials from SABDA and its partners, in accordance with Christian counseling principles.

4. Primary Purpose of the System

The primary purpose of Christian Counseling GPT is not to provide direct solutions, but to help users find their own answers through reflective and constructive conversations.

TARGET AUDIENCE

1. Individuals who need spiritual guidance and comfort based on the Bible.
2. Users who want to receive support without stigma and with privacy assured.
3. Christian Counselors/Ministers and those serving in the field of counseling.

KEY FEATURES

1. Connected to the SABDA Bible (Via the GPT Bible API)

   Every guidance and comforting verse is based on the Bible, and Christian counseling principles are drawn directly from the official SABDA system.

2. Reflective Conversations, Not Instant Solutions

   Accompanies users in unraveling problems from a biblical perspective and helps them see God’s guidance, rather than providing instant answers.

3. Responses Based on a Biblical Perspective

   Introducing spiritual and biblical perspectives gradually and without coercion.

4. Always Available (24/7)

   GPT counseling is accessible anytime and anywhere.

5. Polite and Warm Language

   Communicates gently, empathetically, non-judgmentally, and without rigidity.

6. Privacy Guaranteed

   User data and conversations are not stored publicly, ensuring confidentiality.

7. Multilingual

   Capable of switching to various languages based on user needs (Example prompt: “Talk to me in English” or “Please answer me in English”).

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

1. Feature: Role – Can have multiple roles

   Can have multiple roles, e.g., friend, partner, etc.

2. Feature: Dictate

   This feature, indicated by the microphone icon, allows users to converse without typing.

3. Feature: Voice Mode

   - Enables direct conversation for a more personal experience. The results will automatically be saved to the conversation history in text format.

   - Ideal for elderly users or those who are uncomfortable typing.

4. Feature: Share and Conversation History

   Conversation data is saved in the user’s conversation history and can be shared if desired.

5. Feature: Delete

   Deletes existing conversation history if needed. To do so: click the three dots on the chat history, then select “Delete.”

6. Feature: Document Input

   For longer stories, users can upload document files by clicking “Add photos & files.”

7. Feature: Archive

   Conversations can be downloaded for personal archiving. To do this: click the three dots in the chat history, then select “Archive,” then click Account (bottom left corner) → Settings → Data controls → Archived Chats.

   Downloaded conversations will be deleted from the history.

PRACTICAL USER GUIDE

1. For General Users
   1. Step 1: Access the Service

   Open https://gpt.sabda.org/, select Christian Counseling GPT, click “Visit”

   Or, open the link https://gpt.sabda.org/christiancounseling

   If you haven’t logged in yet, create an account or log in.

   2. Step 2: Start Counseling

   Type a prompt/question in the “Ask Anything” field or select one of the suggested prompts.

   3. Step 3: Explain Your Problem

   Briefly describe your struggle or upload a document with your story. It is more effective to do this step-by-step using a conversational approach.

   4. Step 4: Receive Guidance

   Christian Counseling GPT will provide reflective questions, relevant Bible verses, prayer points, etc., if requested.

2. For Counselors (Mentors/Ministers)
   1. Step 1: Access the Service

   - Open https://gpt.sabda.org/, select Christian Counseling GPT, click “Visit”

   - Or, open the link https://gpt.sabda.org/christiancounseling

   - If you haven’t logged in yet, create an account or log in.

   2. Step 2: Begin Counseling

   - Prompt/Question in the “Ask Anything” field.

   - Introduce yourself and your role (counselor/pastor/church elder/mentor).

   3. Step 3: Explain the Purpose of Counseling

   - Describe the client’s problem clearly (you may do this in stages).

   - Tone of voice (formal, warm, friendly).

   4. Step 4: Response Format

   - Specify the desired response format (e.g., paragraph, bullet points).

RECOMMENDED METHODS

1. Use a natural and relaxed conversational style.
2. Use language you feel comfortable with; it doesn’t have to be formal.
3. Use the language you normally use; it doesn’t have to be Indonesian—regional languages are acceptable.

TROUBLESHOOTING

1. Issue 1: Unable to Log In or Access the Service

   Causes:

   • Incorrect email or password entered.
   • You haven’t registered an account yet.

   Solutions:

   • Make sure your email and password are correct.
   • Click “Forgot Password” to reset it.
   • If you don’t have an account yet, register at https://gpt.sabda.org/
2. Issue 2: GPT Counseling Not Responding

   Causes:

   • Internet connection issues.
   • The server is busy.

   Solution:

   • Check your internet connection.
   • Refresh the page or log in again.
   • Try again in 5–10 minutes.
3. Issue 3: Response Not as Expected (Too General)

   Cause:

   • Instructions are unclear.

   Solution:

   • Provide clearer instructions.
   • Explain your problem specifically.
4. Problem 4: Want to Change Language, e.g., English

   Solution:

   • Type: “Talk to me in English.”
   • To return to Indonesian, type: “Use Indonesian.”
5. Issue 5: Cannot Find Relevant Verses

   Solution:

   • Describe the context of your issue.
   • Example: “I’m worried about the future. Please provide a verse about hope.”
6. Issue 6: Worried My Data Might Be Misused

   Solution:

   • GPT counseling is not publicly stored.
   • All interactions are private and secure.

NOTES

1. Not for Severe Cases

   Intended for spiritual and emotional support, not a substitute for professional therapy.

2. Data Is Not Stored Publicly

   For security and privacy reasons, data is not stored publicly but is stored in the user’s account.

3. Frequently Asked Questions

   For information regarding frequently asked questions about this app, please visit (FAQ link).

CONTACT SUPPORT

Website: https://ai.sabda.org / https://ylsa.org

Email: ylsa@sabda.org

WhatsApp: 0881-2979-100

1. What is Christian Counseling GPT?

Christian Counseling GPT is a custom GPT developed by the SABDA Foundation designed to assist and support counseling services. Christian Counseling GPT provides responses based on God’s Word from the Bible and biblical materials from SABDA and its partners, in accordance with Christian counseling principles.

2. Who can use Christian Counseling GPT?

• Individuals in need of spiritual guidance and support.
• Believers who need initial counseling assistance when no counselor or minister is available to assist them.
• Christian counselors, pastors, ministers, or church workers who wish to use AI as a ministry companion.

3. Can Christian Counseling GPT replace a human counselor?

No. Christian Counseling GPT is not a substitute for a counselor or pastor, but a tool that provides biblical reflections, probing questions, encouragement to pray, and verses of encouragement. Severe cases (e.g., severe depression, trauma, suicidal thoughts) must still be handled by professional counselors and the church community.

4. What are the main features available?

• Connected to the SABDA Bible (via the GPT Bible API)
• Reflective Conversations, Not Instant Solutions
• Responses Based on a Biblical Perspective
• Accessible anytime and anywhere.
• Polite and Warm Language
• Guaranteed Privacy
• Multi-Language Support

5. How do I get started with this service?

• Go to https://gpt.sabda.org/.
• From the three available Custom GPTs, select Christian Counseling GPT.
• Log in or sign up for an account on ChatGPT.
• Start a conversation by typing a statement about your feelings, or, if you’re having trouble getting started, click one of the four hint boxes that represent your feelings:
  • Hi, I’d like to talk about something—is that okay?
  • I’ve been thinking about something—can we chat for a bit?
  • I’m feeling all over the place today—can I tell you about it?
  • There’s something I want to talk about—can I ask for your opinion?

6. Is my conversation data secure?

Yes. Your privacy is strictly protected: conversations with Christian Counseling GPT are not stored on the developer’s servers. Additionally, conversation history is only temporarily stored on the user’s device and can be deleted at any time.

7. In which languages can I receive counseling?

In addition to Indonesian, Christian Counseling GPT can also be used in 100 other languages, depending on ChatGPT’s capabilities. Simply type the command in the language of your choice:

• “Talk to me in English.”
• “Use Indonesian.”
• “Speak in Javanese.”
• “Parler en français.”

8. What are the advantages of Christian Counseling GPT compared to general AI?

• All responses are grounded in God’s Word.
• It emphasizes spiritual growth, not just practical solutions.
• It is non-judgmental, patient, and available 24/7.
• It supports church ministry as a tool, not just an ordinary chatbot.
• It guides users/clients to grow within a real community as well.

9. What are its limitations?

• Cannot provide human empathy or genuine personal touch.
• Cannot read body language or non-verbal cues.
• Risks bias or inaccuracy if questions are too general.
• Not intended for medical/psychological diagnosis or severe cases.
• Highly dependent on the provided technological ecosystem (internet, electricity, training data, etc.).

10. How does Christian Counseling GPT help my spiritual growth?

• Provides relevant Bible verses.
• Offers prayer guides and devotional materials.
• Helps with self-reflection through in-depth questions.
• Encourages involvement in the Christian community.

11. What should not be done with Christian Counseling GPT?

Christian Counseling GPT should not be used to handle emergencies or severe mental health issues because it is not a substitute for a human counselor. This AI should also not be used to provide medical or psychological diagnoses, nor should it be treated as a spiritual authority above the Bible. Additionally, users should not share sensitive personal data or rely entirely on GPT, as the primary role remains with counselors, pastors, and the church community

12. What if I have trouble using it?

If you have trouble using Christian Counseling GPT, start by typing a greeting or briefly describing your situation, then state your goal and the issue you’d like to discuss. If the problem persists, you can contact the SABDA team or refer to support materials such as the manual and the AITalks series

13. Does SABDA provide training for congregants on how to use Christian Counseling GPT?

SABDA does not yet offer formal training specifically for congregants on how to use Christian Counseling GPT. However, SABDA has prepared a user manual, a demo, and the AITalks series, which discuss the concepts, features, and practical application of the tool. Additionally, SABDA encourages biblical literacy and digital/AI literacy so that congregants can use this GPT wisely

14. Where can I find the user guide? 15. Can the results of a conversation with Christian Counseling GPT be a valid solution to my problem?

Conversation results with Christian Counseling GPT can aid in self-reflection, offer prayers, and provide guidance based on biblical principles. However, this GPT is not a substitute for a human counselor, so serious cases must still be handled by a counselor, pastor, or church community. Therefore, the answers should be viewed more as initial support and spiritual companionship, not as a final solution.

16. Based on the Bible, are the results of counseling with Christian Counseling GPT accountable?

The results of counseling with Christian Counseling GPT are reliable as long as they remain grounded in God’s Word as the primary authority. One of the features of Christian Counseling GPT is its connection to the Bible GPT via an API. Therefore, the verses of God’s Word it provides are 99% consistent with biblical truth.