Christian Counseling

At its core, Christian counseling typically uses scripture and biblical teachings as tools to help people overcome their mental health and relationship challenges. It involves a partnership between the counselor and client to work together and explore how faith can be used to provide guidance and support during the therapeutic process. 

Christian counseling could be useful for people who are interested in spiritual answers to their problems or want to understand how faith plays a role in their lives. This type of counseling may also be offered through online platforms, which may help offer flexibility to those who seek faith-based support but can’t go to in-person sessions.

Among the therapeutic techniques used, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common approach that aims to help individuals recognize and challenge negative thought patterns, aligning them with healthier beliefs and behaviors. Another technique often used is solution-focused therapy,² which typically focuses on positive change by setting goals and finding practical ways to achieve them. 

In the context of Christian counseling, these methods are often used along with spiritual teachings. For example, a counselor might use scripture or biblical stories to help guide their support. As a result, clients might gain psychological insight and deepen their spiritual understanding and relationship with God.

Preparing for Christian counseling

In the early stages of Christian counseling, clients are generally encouraged to be honest and open. Being honest may allow individuals to experience the freedom to be who God created them to be. The therapist's role is typically to provide a supportive, judgment-free environment while helping clients apply principles of faith to real-life situations.

Preparation for Christian counseling might involve prayer, self-reflection, and goal setting for the therapy sessions. Actively participating in the counseling process is recommended for maximum growth and progress. However, results and experiences can vary, as each person's journey in Christian counseling may differ.

Christian counseling can benefit a wide range of people who are seeking mental health support and guidance, particularly those who practice the Christian faith. 

Individuals with relationship problems

People who may benefit from Christian counseling include individuals experiencing relationship problems, such as marital conflicts, family disputes, or misunderstandings with friends. Christian counseling can provide support to help manage and resolve complex interpersonal situations through the lens of faith. It can offer spiritual insights and resolution techniques that align with an individual’s faith.

Individuals with spiritual crises

Another group that may find Christian counseling helpful consists of individuals experiencing a spiritual crisis or questioning their faith. Doubts and concerns may come up during life transitions or personal challenges. With Christian counseling, individuals may find a safe space to express their thoughts and explore the deeper meanings behind their faith and spiritual journey.

Individuals with mental health challenges

In addition, Christian counseling can assist those who are experiencing certain mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or grief. For instance, a person experiencing grief after losing a loved one may find solace in Christian counseling, where they can explore their loss in the context of their faith. Participating in a faith-based approach to therapy may help them incorporate their beliefs and values into different ways to cope, recover, and heal.

Research on the effectiveness of Christian counseling has shown promising results in recent years. One study explored the effectiveness of religion-adapted cognitive behavioral therapy (R-CBT) for individuals with psychiatric disorders. Researchers found that R-CBT often incorporates religious content into cognitive restructuring, psychoeducation, and motivation. The authors emphasized the potential benefits of spirituality in therapy and supported R-CBT as an effective approach to mental health treatment.

In addition, a survey of Christian counselors was conducted to examine how Christian counselors use their faith in their work. They found that when these counselors focused on their spiritual growth and had mentors, they felt more satisfied and were more active in combining their faith with their counseling. The findings suggest that focusing on spiritual formation could help improve the effectiveness of Christian counseling.

Finding Christian therapy involves looking for mental health professionals with a strong foundation in Christian values and expertise in therapeutic practices. The goal is to find a therapist who can combine spiritual principles with evidence-based therapy methods. A Christian counselor may be able to help you manage life challenges and support your emotional growth. 

For those who prefer online options, several platforms offer Christian counseling services. For instance, BetterHelp offers the option to select a Christian counselor who provides therapy that includes spiritual elements and allows you to connect with a therapist in a way that is most comfortable for you, whether via audio, video, or live chat. Regardless of whether you choose online or in-person Christian counseling, there are Christian counselors who have experience helping people navigate life’s challenges in a way that honors their faith and values.