What is Christian Counseling?

You may have heard of it, but what is Christian Counseling? Some clients of my mental health practice seek this specifically, and others specifically ask for it not to be a part of their treatment. As a licensed professional counselor, I honor what my clients ask and hope for. 

Counseling and psychology have an intersecting spectrum, from the scientific discipline of psychology on one end, to the spiritual discipline of Biblical (or nouthetic) counseling on the other. Psychological science does not overtly intermingle with faith, particularly Christian, philosophies or principles; Biblical counseling is strictly Biblical, repudiates psychology as humanistic, antithetical to Christianity.

Somewhere on that same spectrum falls what is known as Christian Counseling. My education, experience, practice, license, and continued learning falls here in this in-between area. What does this look like? Often we call this “integrated”: a perspective that is grounded and based in Biblical word and principle, but allows for God’s created beings to contribute what they have learned about the brain, attachment science, medication, researched therapies, and much more. 

Christian counseling is distinct from secular counseling in that it specifically incorporates the spiritual dimension, Biblical truths, and a seeking of God’s will in an individual’s life. Christian counselors understand that the Bible has a lot of practical wisdom about human nature, marriage and family, human suffering, and so much more. By using biblical concepts in counseling, one can sometimes provide specific direction and accountability. Psalm 119:24 says, "Your statutes are my delight; they are my counselors.”

In practice, this means that as a faith-based or Christian counselor, I have a redemptive world view. I’m just a human, but I can participate with God’s work through his people. I don’t do the redeeming, but through concepts such as forgiveness, humility, surrender, even silent inner prayer, perhaps a hurting person in my office can meet the Redeemer.

Some clients explicitly ask for Scripture references, out-loud-verbal-prayer, or a place to confess their wrongdoings. Other clients, as mentioned earlier, explicitly put a boundary in the way of these practices. 

I regularly encounter both types of requests, and am comfortable meeting you where you are. I respect your worldview and am open to hear your story and your pain. Please reach out to ask any questions or set up an appointment.