Counseling for Individuals, Couples & Families
Life often showers us with wonderful blessings in the form of family, good friends, and joyous fun! But at some point in our lives, most of us will also be affected by loss and grief. During these times, it can be immensely helpful to receive help and guidance from a trained and trusted therapist. But […]
Life often showers us with wonderful blessings in the form of family, good friends, and joyous fun! But at some point in our lives, most of us will also be affected by loss and grief. During these times, it can be immensely helpful to receive help and guidance from a trained and trusted therapist.
But there are many Christians who wonder and worry if working with a therapist will somehow go against their religious beliefs, or if the therapist will eschew those beliefs. This is never a concern when working with a Christian counselor.
Christian counselors understand firsthand that when dealing with the loss of a loved one, a job loss, divorce, or a health crisis, a strong and resilient faith is the VERY THING that can get you through the darkness and back into the light.
Christian counseling combines an individual’s faith with the traditional principles of psychology, with the ultimate goal of improving the individual’s mental health and interpersonal relationships. Christian counselors often use scripture and biblical teachings to help their clients deal with the challenges they are facing.
Perhaps one of the biggest differences between the two types of counseling is that Christian counselors, in addition to mainstream cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, use a wide variety of tools and resources such as prayer, bible study, and affirmations to help their clients deal with grief.
Christian counselors also take more of a holistic approach to mental health, understanding that your spiritual health is directly linked to your mental health and emotional well-being.
And, while secular therapy may focus on the “problem” you are facing, Christian counseling focuses on your relationship with God.
If you or someone you know is suffering from grief and would like to work with a Christian counselor, please be in touch with me. If you are not local, I also provide sessions over the internet.
SOURCES:
When considering mental health therapy, many Christians turn to Christian counseling for help. But for every one Christian who seeks help from a Christian counselor, there are many more who shy away from the idea. And I think this is because there are some Christian counseling myths that really seem to turn people off. The […]
When considering mental health therapy, many Christians turn to Christian counseling for help. But for every one Christian who seeks help from a Christian counselor, there are many more who shy away from the idea. And I think this is because there are some Christian counseling myths that really seem to turn people off.
The following are some of the most common myths and the truth:
Myth #1: Christian Counselors are Very Judgmental
Nope, not even close. My job as a Christian counselor is to provide my clients with a safe space to work through the pain and trouble in their life. I try my very best to emulate Christ and show my clients love and respect. I focus on listening not judging.
Myth #2: Christian Counselors Just Recite Bible Versus at You
We’re not all bible thumpers! Of course the scripture are a very big part of the Christian faith. And there are many lessons and stories of hope within those pages. But my goal is not to shove anything down anyone’s throat. Usually before even meeting with a client, I send them an intake form, asking them whether or not they are comfortable with or interested in the use of prayer, scriptures, or a discussion of God. I want my clients to be as comfortable as possible and in control of their healing journey.
Myth #3: I Don’t Need Counseling – I Can Just Speak with My Pastor
I definitely think speaking with your pastor or local priest is a great idea. These leaders can offer spiritual guidance in troubling times. But there are some differences to what I offer as a trained counselor.
Counselors have a Master’s degree or higher in psychology, whereas most pastors have received theological training. Counselors have also been licensed and are continually learning and staying up-to-date with the latest research and evidence-based protocols. This allows a Christian counselor to treat the entire personhood of their clients.
If you would like to learn more about what Christian counseling offers or would like to schedule a trial session, please get in touch with me. I’m not here to judge. And I won’t force you to listen to bible scriptures. I’m just here to help.
SOURCES:
https://www.destinycitycounseling.com/blog/top-5-myths-about-christian-counseling-in-tacoma-wa
https://www.mendedlife.com/7-myths-of-christian-counseling/