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/
The relationship between Christianity and mental health is a complex one. A person’s internal narrative or belief system is an impactful way to cope with life’s challenges. For many people belief in a higher power is essential to a person’s mental health and overall well-being. Having a strong relationship and commitment to Christ does not […]
The relationship between Christianity and mental health is a complex one. A person’s internal narrative or belief system is an impactful way to cope with life’s challenges.
For many people belief in a higher power is essential to a person’s mental health and overall well-being. Having a strong relationship and commitment to Christ does not mean one cannot benefit from Christian coaching or traditional therapy with a Christian foundation.
In my practice, I often work with people who have a religious faith but not a relationship with God. Not everyone has someone they can talk to, without judgement, that will help them create a blueprint to find resolve for their problems.
It is one thing to use our faith to cope with the pain and challenges of life. However our faith in God does not absolve us of our human responsibility. I have learned from many clients that they feel guilty when they are told to only rely solely on God, until they allow God into the process of coaching or therapy. “God made doctors and He made therapists too,” one person commented.
Again, as Christians, praying to Our Father does not absolve us from human responsibility. That’s worth saying again. Yes, pray and wait on God’s will; but while you wait, what are you willing to do to improve areas in need of change?
Only God knows the future. We don’t know His exact intentions for us, but we can be active participants in His plan. In working with a Christian based therapist or Christian based coach, people can learn sustainable coping tools and strategies to change their lives significantly. A Christian based coach or therapist can provide perspectives that support a client in their empowerment and growth, while working from biblical principles.
The guilt factor:
When people are struggling with depression, unhealthy relationships, anxiety or compulsions for example, they can feel completely alone, unworthy of God’s love. They find it difficult to reconnect with God because deep down they don’t believe they deserve His presence in their life.
I not only show people how to invite God back into their lives; I help my clients build their self-esteem and find their value so they can reconnect with God.
If you are struggling, feel stuck and would like to explore your options, because make no mistake, you have options; please reach out to me. I work with people of the Christian faith and respect your beliefs. My focus is to help you find your way back and live the life He intended for you.
SOURCES:
https://fherehab.com/learning/connection-spirituality-mental-health
