George Fox University | About | Rand Michael

Rand Michael

Associate Professor, Graduate Department of Counseling

Countries:
Albania, Burundi, China, Israel, Kenya, Taiwan


Organization:
TELOS International


Nature of Work
While on a 1986 tour of Israel, Rand became aware of the great need missionaries and nationals have for being encouraged, empowered, and equipped, both spiritually and psychologically. Since 1987, Rand and his wife, Phyllis, Associate Professor at Warner Pacific College, have provided services in many international locations where there is a dearth of psychological perspective.

His journey has brought him to the point of convening mental health teams (comprised of experienced therapists as well as advanced masters-level clinical students) that serve wherever there is a need and an open door. Rand formed TELOS International Inc. to be the vehicle for this multifaceted ministry. TELOS partners with churches, parachurch ministries, community organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies to provide direct service and to train others in caregiving skills. His training materials have been translated into Russian, Arabic, Albanian, and Kurundi (the common language of Central Africa).

Rand and two graduate students in the helping professions-Sharon Casurella and Glenn Koppang-were invited to work with Palestinian Christians during some of the most intense Israeli military actions. While other organizations provide supplies such as blankets, clothing and food to the people, the focus of Rand's team was to teach people to manage stress trauma and to develop better listening skills. In this photo, Rand, Rod Green, a missionary in Israel, and a young woman translator are working on a translation of Rand's curriculum on stress and trauma, listening, and coping into Arabic.

Plans are under way to translate the curriculum to Chinese.