Christian Faith-Based Counseling

Has your light become dimmer over the years? Are you struggling to find your true path and calling? Do you wish for guidance from a trained professional who will understand and respect that your number one priority is building a relationship with God?

If so, you are definitely not alone. More and more clients are looking for faith-based counseling that not only addresses the soul but seeks to incorporate the spirit as well. They want to be able to not only discuss the issues they are having but also openly discuss God, the Bible, and their belief in the power of prayer.

I am not the only counselor who has noticed that people prefer to seek guidance from those who support, rather than challenge, their faith. In fact, according to a nationwide survey by the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC), 83% of Americans believe their spiritual faith and religious beliefs are closely tied to their state of mental and emotional health.

Three-quarters have stated it’s important for them to work with a therapist who integrates their values and beliefs into the counseling process, and more respondents said they would prefer to see a religious counselor (29%) than a psychiatrist (27%), psychologist (17%), or family doctor (13%).

 

Selecting the Right Faith-Based Counselor to Work With

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Just as no two people are alike, no two faith-based counselors are alike either. They will differ on a few different things:

• How much religious training (if any) they have had.

• How much religion is incorporated into their practice.

• The populations they serve.

• Their psychological expertise.

Ultimately, it will be important for you to decide on the most important qualifications you would like your counselor to have. It’s a good idea to do some research and find local faith-based counselors in your area. Get on the phone with them and ask some questions. The most important thing is whether or not you feel comfortable talking with them.

If you or someone you love is interested in exploring faith-based treatment, please get in touch with me. I would be happy to discuss how I may be able to help.