Therapists in Banning, CA
![Photo of Kathryn Lige, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8acd54a6-98ce-4f8e-b4fd-75c871a5a966/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready to cultivate? My name is Kathryn Lige, LCSW and I provide trauma-sensitive and culturally inclusive therapy to children, adolescents, young adults, and parents. My approach to therapy is grounded in mindfulness and social-emotional intelligence, and I aim to support the whole you as you grow and thrive. I work with a wide range of clients, including those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and parenting challenges. I am also experienced in working with LGBTQIA+ clients and clients from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Are you ready to cultivate? My name is Kathryn Lige, LCSW and I provide trauma-sensitive and culturally inclusive therapy to children, adolescents, young adults, and parents. My approach to therapy is grounded in mindfulness and social-emotional intelligence, and I aim to support the whole you as you grow and thrive. I work with a wide range of clients, including those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and parenting challenges. I am also experienced in working with LGBTQIA+ clients and clients from diverse cultural backgrounds.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Cassie M. Campbell, MS, LPCC, MFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/864845f7-f33d-421c-8500-deb28201d5f6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cassie M. Campbell
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, MFT
Verified Verified
Beaumont, CA 92223 (Online Only)
When people experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to fall apart. I am very passionate about helping individuals through those difficult times. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families with diverse backgrounds and a wide range of concerns using various modalities and skills to provide individualized counseling. I help clients identify healthy coping skills, perceptions of themselves and strengthen their support system so they can identify a new sense of normal.
When people experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to fall apart. I am very passionate about helping individuals through those difficult times. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families with diverse backgrounds and a wide range of concerns using various modalities and skills to provide individualized counseling. I help clients identify healthy coping skills, perceptions of themselves and strengthen their support system so they can identify a new sense of normal.
![Photo of Olga Cervantes, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/089d179d-2f61-4816-be31-3e7e4aaf69b3/1/320x400.png)
Welcome, I'm Dr. Cervantes, Psychologist. I recognize the importance of taking a holistic approach to your wellness. Together, we will identify and achieve your treatment goals. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach to address mood management, healing from trauma, relationship issues, transitions in life, and career stressors/growth. I typically work with individuals and families who are ready to learn new ways of approaching new or chronic challenges in their personal and/or work life.
Welcome, I'm Dr. Cervantes, Psychologist. I recognize the importance of taking a holistic approach to your wellness. Together, we will identify and achieve your treatment goals. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach to address mood management, healing from trauma, relationship issues, transitions in life, and career stressors/growth. I typically work with individuals and families who are ready to learn new ways of approaching new or chronic challenges in their personal and/or work life.
![Photo of Tina Odom, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/061ecd6d-ea87-4f33-85be-d0a4f0e9b879/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Tina Odom, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). In the nearly ten years I spent working in mental health, I have worked with adolescents and adults in individual, couples, group, and family therapy. My approach is very eclectic, using concepts, strategies, and interventions from modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and more. My approach to providing therapy is tailored to the needs of each client and includes an emphasis on building a healthy, trusting therapeutic relationship with the client.
Hello! My name is Tina Odom, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). In the nearly ten years I spent working in mental health, I have worked with adolescents and adults in individual, couples, group, and family therapy. My approach is very eclectic, using concepts, strategies, and interventions from modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and more. My approach to providing therapy is tailored to the needs of each client and includes an emphasis on building a healthy, trusting therapeutic relationship with the client.
![Photo of Dejarnae Ferrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/963971b8-234e-4b6c-b0a3-4ed2a4bb7724/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hey there! My name is De'Jarnae (DJ) Ferrell, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have several years of experience in working with individuals in many different settings. I specialize in the following areas: anxiety, depression, life changes/transitions, grief and loss, and stress/anger management. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and collaborative, and incorporates the use of humor, creativity, and warmth. I use multiple evidence-based practices and modalities to ensure your treatment is intentionally tailored to meet your unique needs.
Hey there! My name is De'Jarnae (DJ) Ferrell, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have several years of experience in working with individuals in many different settings. I specialize in the following areas: anxiety, depression, life changes/transitions, grief and loss, and stress/anger management. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and collaborative, and incorporates the use of humor, creativity, and warmth. I use multiple evidence-based practices and modalities to ensure your treatment is intentionally tailored to meet your unique needs.
![Photo of Lisa Kim, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f31bf23a-3a53-43ee-98bc-e4c819c8f259/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Lisa Kim. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFC 49076) who is client-centered and driven to collaborate with clients in search of solution-focused ideas to overcome barriers. I am an experienced psychotherapist and MFT with a demonstrated history of working in community mental health and the hospital/healthcare industry. My specializations include child/adolescent developmental psychology, family systems, trauma-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, and spiritual counseling since 2007.
Hi, I'm Lisa Kim. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFC 49076) who is client-centered and driven to collaborate with clients in search of solution-focused ideas to overcome barriers. I am an experienced psychotherapist and MFT with a demonstrated history of working in community mental health and the hospital/healthcare industry. My specializations include child/adolescent developmental psychology, family systems, trauma-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, and spiritual counseling since 2007.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Lavina Ellison, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f934fa5-f4e4-49f6-b2dd-622d4c36258d/1/320x400.jpeg)
For those of the Christian faith, I also offer Christian points of view by coupling strong biblical perspectives with sound psychological techniques and insights.
Greetings everyone! I'm Lavina, Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. In life, we have ups and downs. The ups are usually exciting, fun, and easy to handle. The downs on the other hand (Depression, anxiety, trauma, loss of a job, break-up, illness, grief, etc), can be devastating and life altering. Guess what? It's okay to ask for help when life gets difficult. It's okay to say, "I don't know how to handle or fix this!" There's courage and bravery in taking the steps to wellness. I'm here to offer you that help. My passion is to work with those struggling to heal and who wants to learn how to conquer life's difficulties.
For those of the Christian faith, I also offer Christian points of view by coupling strong biblical perspectives with sound psychological techniques and insights.
Greetings everyone! I'm Lavina, Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. In life, we have ups and downs. The ups are usually exciting, fun, and easy to handle. The downs on the other hand (Depression, anxiety, trauma, loss of a job, break-up, illness, grief, etc), can be devastating and life altering. Guess what? It's okay to ask for help when life gets difficult. It's okay to say, "I don't know how to handle or fix this!" There's courage and bravery in taking the steps to wellness. I'm here to offer you that help. My passion is to work with those struggling to heal and who wants to learn how to conquer life's difficulties.
![Photo of Jim Curtis Beebe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1fe1947-04ed-409d-90b0-470830551ba7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life in the 21st century can be challenging. Anxiety, depression, relationship pain and many other struggles seem all too common. And being alone in those struggles without direction or a map out can feel hopeless. But growing through those struggles and turning them into your blessing can be transformative. Our pain can become our purpose. And our misery can become our ministry. I have been working with individuals and couples from a faith-based approach for 40 years. Bringing our Christian resources to bear on our personal and relational struggles can make all the difference.
Life in the 21st century can be challenging. Anxiety, depression, relationship pain and many other struggles seem all too common. And being alone in those struggles without direction or a map out can feel hopeless. But growing through those struggles and turning them into your blessing can be transformative. Our pain can become our purpose. And our misery can become our ministry. I have been working with individuals and couples from a faith-based approach for 40 years. Bringing our Christian resources to bear on our personal and relational struggles can make all the difference.
![Photo of Sarah Underbrink - Journeys Counseling Ministry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7cc494d-a970-461d-9a23-aebee640a648/1/320x400.png)
Journeys Counseling Ministry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
We are a non-profit Christian Counseling Center and offer therapy to those in need.
Journeys Counseling provides professional psychotherapy, vibrant living coaching, and spiritual direction to the community. Our work is interdenominational, serving clients from many different backgrounds, including those who have little or no religious affiliation. As a Christian organization we believe counseling should address the whole person and be respectful of people’s faith. Individual’s beliefs are both an important part of their lives and a valuable resource when experiencing distress. Counseling should assist in developing those resources further. Often, people lack support systems that help deal with personal problems.
We are a non-profit Christian Counseling Center and offer therapy to those in need.
Journeys Counseling provides professional psychotherapy, vibrant living coaching, and spiritual direction to the community. Our work is interdenominational, serving clients from many different backgrounds, including those who have little or no religious affiliation. As a Christian organization we believe counseling should address the whole person and be respectful of people’s faith. Individual’s beliefs are both an important part of their lives and a valuable resource when experiencing distress. Counseling should assist in developing those resources further. Often, people lack support systems that help deal with personal problems.
![Photo of Selina Barnett, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcf3fd65-4204-4380-9b75-4ea8aba3b932/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I’m Dr. Selina Barnett, licensed psychologist. My approach to therapy is client-focused Christian therapy specializing in anxiety and depression. I work with clients between the ages of 16 - 99. Utilizing ERT, CBT/trauma informed, SFT, motivational interviewing, and symptom management. People often talked to me like they knew me for years. I began to wonder if there was a way, I could make a career of helping others. Opportunities in psychology soon presented themselves and the rest is history.
Hello, I’m Dr. Selina Barnett, licensed psychologist. My approach to therapy is client-focused Christian therapy specializing in anxiety and depression. I work with clients between the ages of 16 - 99. Utilizing ERT, CBT/trauma informed, SFT, motivational interviewing, and symptom management. People often talked to me like they knew me for years. I began to wonder if there was a way, I could make a career of helping others. Opportunities in psychology soon presented themselves and the rest is history.
![Photo of Elizabeth G. Middleton - Elizabeth G. Middleton, MA, MFT, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87814159-c6c6-4ae1-b400-577a75d56980/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth G. Middleton, MA, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
My specialties include a Christian focus when working with couples who are experiencing relationship difficulties (divorce, separation, infidelity, life stage transitions); child/adolescent problems (ADHD, anxiety, depression, peer pressure, bullying and social skills); adoption, foster care and blended family issues; and individuals struggling with depression, anxiety and issues related to loss and trauma.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
My specialties include a Christian focus when working with couples who are experiencing relationship difficulties (divorce, separation, infidelity, life stage transitions); child/adolescent problems (ADHD, anxiety, depression, peer pressure, bullying and social skills); adoption, foster care and blended family issues; and individuals struggling with depression, anxiety and issues related to loss and trauma.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
![Photo of Shellye Sledge, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cb8bd04-b490-46f5-87d1-23585196f381/1/320x400.png)
The good news for you… I am Dr. Shellye Sledge, LCSW, CEAP, with considerable experience working with individuals, couples, and families for many years. My education and training include a PhD in Social Work from Norfolk State University, a Master of Social Work in Administration from San Diego State University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Counseling/Psychology from Christian Heritage College in El Cajon, California.
The good news for you… I am Dr. Shellye Sledge, LCSW, CEAP, with considerable experience working with individuals, couples, and families for many years. My education and training include a PhD in Social Work from Norfolk State University, a Master of Social Work in Administration from San Diego State University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Counseling/Psychology from Christian Heritage College in El Cajon, California.
![Photo of Dr. Veola Vazquez, PhD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47c0c5c1-8f5c-485d-8355-d18eda64c01c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Veola Vazquez
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92508 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are looking for individual or couples therapy via telehealth, reach out to me. If you struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, family conflict, or problems adjusting to life circumstances, I can help. I like to draw from cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy as specific tools to guide our work together. I also specialize in Christian counseling if you are looking for help that incorporates your faith.
If you are looking for individual or couples therapy via telehealth, reach out to me. If you struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, family conflict, or problems adjusting to life circumstances, I can help. I like to draw from cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy as specific tools to guide our work together. I also specialize in Christian counseling if you are looking for help that incorporates your faith.
![Photo of Clara Bertan, DMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbaf5001-1152-42bb-9155-f01951354082/6/320x400.jpeg)
Clara Bertan
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Granada Hills, CA 91344 (Online Only)
If you’re feeling stuck in the same patterns of anxiety, hopelessness and frustration; you’re not alone! Or perhaps your relationship with your partner or children feels strained and joyless. I believe healing and restoration happen in the context of authentic relationships. My experience working with people from all walks of life has reinforced my belief that there is hope and healing for everyone. As a Christian Integrative Therapist, I believe the Word of God has given us everything pertaining to life and that the presence of a caring Christian therapist can be a catalyst for profound healing and transformation.
If you’re feeling stuck in the same patterns of anxiety, hopelessness and frustration; you’re not alone! Or perhaps your relationship with your partner or children feels strained and joyless. I believe healing and restoration happen in the context of authentic relationships. My experience working with people from all walks of life has reinforced my belief that there is hope and healing for everyone. As a Christian Integrative Therapist, I believe the Word of God has given us everything pertaining to life and that the presence of a caring Christian therapist can be a catalyst for profound healing and transformation.
![Photo of Carol Regehr, MS, MABS, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f79335-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am committed to counseling my clients within a Christian context and also embrace those whose faith may be different or may just be trying to sort things out.
It is my goal to provide my clients with a safe and confidential environment to explore issues and provide growth towards awareness, behavioral change, and resolution. If you are unable to meet with me in my San Diego office, we can also meet online through video conferencing. I am licensed as a professional counselor in the states of California and Texas. I can therefore have a counseling session with anyone living in either of these states. Please Visit My Website for more information
I am committed to counseling my clients within a Christian context and also embrace those whose faith may be different or may just be trying to sort things out.
It is my goal to provide my clients with a safe and confidential environment to explore issues and provide growth towards awareness, behavioral change, and resolution. If you are unable to meet with me in my San Diego office, we can also meet online through video conferencing. I am licensed as a professional counselor in the states of California and Texas. I can therefore have a counseling session with anyone living in either of these states. Please Visit My Website for more information
![Photo of Carol Olmos Crawley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d93d8e0-3fbd-4669-abcd-99c01074f0be/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carol Olmos Crawley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw on a variety of modalities including EMDR, DBT, Schema Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment Theory, The Gottman Method, Integrative Christian Counseling and mindfulness practices to create a customized treatment plan that is both effective and empowering.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
I draw on a variety of modalities including EMDR, DBT, Schema Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment Theory, The Gottman Method, Integrative Christian Counseling and mindfulness practices to create a customized treatment plan that is both effective and empowering.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Dr. Yvonne Jackson, DMFT, LMFT, BSN, PHN, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81f89c9b-dade-40a5-bc80-f52fdb61e651/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Yvonne Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT, BSN, PHN
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
We provide pre-marital counseling, marital counseling, individual counseling, adults, families, couples therapy using Evidence Based Therapy and Christian-based principles.
Are you and your spouse having the same issues over and over again, and nothing has helped? Nothing seems to make a difference or change? Is communication an issue in your relationship? You just can't hear each other? Are you having problems sleeping, chronic headaches, changes in your appetite, easily irritated, losing your temper quicker, or is everyone getting on your nerves? Do you feel stressed, depressed, anxious, have difficulty coping with work or home, marital issues, physical/emotion abuse or trauma, difficulty controlling anger, divorce, or family problems. Contact me now for an appointment.
We provide pre-marital counseling, marital counseling, individual counseling, adults, families, couples therapy using Evidence Based Therapy and Christian-based principles.
Are you and your spouse having the same issues over and over again, and nothing has helped? Nothing seems to make a difference or change? Is communication an issue in your relationship? You just can't hear each other? Are you having problems sleeping, chronic headaches, changes in your appetite, easily irritated, losing your temper quicker, or is everyone getting on your nerves? Do you feel stressed, depressed, anxious, have difficulty coping with work or home, marital issues, physical/emotion abuse or trauma, difficulty controlling anger, divorce, or family problems. Contact me now for an appointment.
![Photo of Donna E Horne, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b4006b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Donna E Horne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739
I offer a caring and emphatic demeanor, professional therapeutic assistance, and the integration of Christian principles needed to give your choice a chance.
“I can’t believe this is happening to us! Has our marriage been a lie! It looks like the marriage is over and with all I’ve been through I can’t believe I still don’t want it to end! Can my marriage be saved?” Marriage is definitely a team effort and when you are not playing on the same team it can look hopeless. Yet, appearances are often misleading! There is HOPE for you! I understand devastation of a heart that is sick from pain and can help you heal your heart. I offer hope to many that are on the journey to reconciliation or new beginnings.
I offer a caring and emphatic demeanor, professional therapeutic assistance, and the integration of Christian principles needed to give your choice a chance.
“I can’t believe this is happening to us! Has our marriage been a lie! It looks like the marriage is over and with all I’ve been through I can’t believe I still don’t want it to end! Can my marriage be saved?” Marriage is definitely a team effort and when you are not playing on the same team it can look hopeless. Yet, appearances are often misleading! There is HOPE for you! I understand devastation of a heart that is sick from pain and can help you heal your heart. I offer hope to many that are on the journey to reconciliation or new beginnings.
![Photo of Michele Hodelin, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d752186-88b5-4d8d-aa8d-6fb1c7902e69/2/320x400.png)
Michele Hodelin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Bonsall, CA 92003 (Online Only)
I offer both traditional as well as Christian based counseling according to preference.
Hello! I'm Michele and I'm very glad to meet you. I am a licensed social worker in Florida and California specializing in substance use disorders, psychiatric/mental health disorders, and the treatment and recovery process. Together we will walk the road toward your recovery, health, and healing. I believe in You! With each session, my hope is that you will leave with less turmoil, fear, and hurt; and more understanding, motivation, and hope than you entered with. I see clients via Telehealth throughout California & Florida.
I offer both traditional as well as Christian based counseling according to preference.
Hello! I'm Michele and I'm very glad to meet you. I am a licensed social worker in Florida and California specializing in substance use disorders, psychiatric/mental health disorders, and the treatment and recovery process. Together we will walk the road toward your recovery, health, and healing. I believe in You! With each session, my hope is that you will leave with less turmoil, fear, and hurt; and more understanding, motivation, and hope than you entered with. I see clients via Telehealth throughout California & Florida.
![Photo of Andrea Bohmbach, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc60eacb-bc0e-4bf2-b0fc-b9d4dd20bdb6/1/320x400.jpeg)
My interests include perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, infertility, grief and loss, teenage struggles, parenting challenges and Christian counseling.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed and tired? Do you want more from life and need help navigating life’s challenges? I believe therapy should be a collaborative, safe and trusting experience and will focus on tailoring our sessions specifically to your needs. In our work together, I will help you gain insight, learn coping skills and build self-esteem to hopefully have a more fulfilling and joyful life.
My interests include perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, infertility, grief and loss, teenage struggles, parenting challenges and Christian counseling.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed and tired? Do you want more from life and need help navigating life’s challenges? I believe therapy should be a collaborative, safe and trusting experience and will focus on tailoring our sessions specifically to your needs. In our work together, I will help you gain insight, learn coping skills and build self-esteem to hopefully have a more fulfilling and joyful life.
See more therapy options for Banning
Christian Therapists
Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?
Therapists and clients don’t need to share the same belief system or background to be able to work effectively together, but a therapist whose training includes a focus on cultural competence may be better able to form a therapeutic bond with individuals from a range of backgrounds, as they will have experience in tailoring their approach to each client—and will be prepared to acknowledge and consider the effects of culture, religion, and other factors on each individual.
Why is it important to find a therapist sensitive to Christian values?
Each person brings a unique history and background to therapy, making it important to find a licensed therapist who is trained in a broad range of treatment modalities. In addition, for people who grow up in a faith tradition that strongly influences the way they conduct their everyday life, finding a therapist who understands or shares that background can ease the disclosure of sensitive information and facilitate the therapeutic process. For some clients, a Christian therapist is likely to incorporate faith-based principles into emotional healing techniques.
How do I recognize an effective Christian therapist?
Christian therapists are licensed mental health professionals—holding a master’s or doctoral degree in medicine, nursing, psychology, counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy—who are also familiar with Christian beliefs and values. They have an understanding of the importance that Christian principles play in the lives of individuals and families, which allows them to be especially sensitive to the kinds of struggles that can affect daily functioning. Like all effective therapists, a Christian therapist will have undergone training and certification in a variety of treatment modalities that help people through crises and enable them to master the challenges of life.
Why might someone feel comfortable with a Christian therapist?
While training, qualifications, and experience are always important, research has long established that a strong alliance between client and therapist is a major contributor to therapeutic success. An alliance is likely to be strengthened with a therapist who not only is responsive to questions and concerns but also shares a client’s faith and values. Sensitivity to spiritual matters as well as to everyday struggles can provide a welcome sense of safety and contribute to the bond between client and therapist, both of which support the therapeutic process.
Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of Christian therapists?
The directory of Christian therapists includes professionals who have shared their background in their profiles. However, not all therapists choose to disclose this information, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. The directory also shows therapists who indicate that they have extensive experience working with Christian clients, regardless of their own background or religious affiliation.