Christian Therapists in Contra Costa County, CA

Photo of Ka Yu (Emma) Lam - Emma Lam Therapy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Lam Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, CA 94522  (Online Only)
In Christian counseling, I integrate biblical wisdom and principles to address issues in different areas.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. My practice encompasses both traditional therapy methods and Christian counseling principles. With a focus on supporting individuals through challenges such as stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, I offer a compassionate space for healing and growth.
In Christian counseling, I integrate biblical wisdom and principles to address issues in different areas.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. My practice encompasses both traditional therapy methods and Christian counseling principles. With a focus on supporting individuals through challenges such as stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, I offer a compassionate space for healing and growth.
(925) 860-7326 View (925) 860-7326
Photo of Janie Sheedy, MA-MFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janie Sheedy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA-MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alamo, CA 94507
I offer a Christian faith-based approach along with professional training in psychotherapy that address all areas of a person's life.
It is said that to the degree that you can't experience pain is to the degree that you can't experience joy. To be human is to feel and to feel is to experience both joy and sadness and everything in between. As a therapist, I help people experience joy unencumbered by losses and disappointments of the past, or by present day difficulties. I believe people heal in relationship, therefore my goal is to not only help people with their inner life, but is to equally help people connect with outer resources as well.
I offer a Christian faith-based approach along with professional training in psychotherapy that address all areas of a person's life.
It is said that to the degree that you can't experience pain is to the degree that you can't experience joy. To be human is to feel and to feel is to experience both joy and sadness and everything in between. As a therapist, I help people experience joy unencumbered by losses and disappointments of the past, or by present day difficulties. I believe people heal in relationship, therefore my goal is to not only help people with their inner life, but is to equally help people connect with outer resources as well.
(925) 968-4735 View (925) 968-4735
Photo of Tecsia Evans, PhD, Psychologist
Tecsia Evans
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakley, CA 94561
Seeking individual, couples or family therapy, Christian counseling, leadership or business coaching? Your Therapy Now is here to help you reach your goals.
Dr. Evans at Your Therapy Now, provides quality clinical and assessment services for the everyday person. Our focus is to collaborate with you and identify concrete goals for your emotional health, create a plan that helps you achieve these goals and provide a supportive space that empowers you along the way. Our model is simple: therapy is meant to equip you with the tools you need, as you need them, to make the changes you desire to see in your life.
Seeking individual, couples or family therapy, Christian counseling, leadership or business coaching? Your Therapy Now is here to help you reach your goals.
Dr. Evans at Your Therapy Now, provides quality clinical and assessment services for the everyday person. Our focus is to collaborate with you and identify concrete goals for your emotional health, create a plan that helps you achieve these goals and provide a supportive space that empowers you along the way. Our model is simple: therapy is meant to equip you with the tools you need, as you need them, to make the changes you desire to see in your life.
(510) 369-1495 View (510) 369-1495
Photo of Joy Wong Liu, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joy Wong Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richmond, CA 94801
I am a Christian therapist with a deep respect for your unique history and personal journey.
Do you often feel ashamed and not good enough, even though others think you have it all together? Do you find yourself caring for those around you, all the while wondering when it will be your turn to get what you need? Does the intensity of your negative feelings sometimes scare you?
I am a Christian therapist with a deep respect for your unique history and personal journey.
Do you often feel ashamed and not good enough, even though others think you have it all together? Do you find yourself caring for those around you, all the while wondering when it will be your turn to get what you need? Does the intensity of your negative feelings sometimes scare you?
(510) 296-6511 View (510) 296-6511
Photo of Barbara S Ino, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara S Ino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Ramon, CA 94583  (Online Only)
I offer a Christian perspective, if requested.
Hope. Everybody needs it, especially when dealing with relationship problems, anxiety, depression & stress. Over the last 37 years as a Marriage & Family Therapist I have helped couples, families & individuals heal their relationships, learn great communication skills, grieve old wounds & receive tools to reduce anxiety, depression & stress. My style of therapy is to offer wisdom, kindness & practical solutions. Therapy is hard work. Sometimes healing comes from laughter. My clients tell me a peaceful, non-judgmental atmosphere helps them feel comfortable and open up. It's time to find joy & fulfillment with the ones you love!
I offer a Christian perspective, if requested.
Hope. Everybody needs it, especially when dealing with relationship problems, anxiety, depression & stress. Over the last 37 years as a Marriage & Family Therapist I have helped couples, families & individuals heal their relationships, learn great communication skills, grieve old wounds & receive tools to reduce anxiety, depression & stress. My style of therapy is to offer wisdom, kindness & practical solutions. Therapy is hard work. Sometimes healing comes from laughter. My clients tell me a peaceful, non-judgmental atmosphere helps them feel comfortable and open up. It's time to find joy & fulfillment with the ones you love!
(925) 238-3966 View (925) 238-3966
Photo of Janice Maurer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janice Maurer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Ramon, CA 94583
I integrate Christian beliefs with a holistic approach to neurobiology & emotional wellness, providing a safe environment for reflection & exploration of the issues that matter to you most.
Do you find there are patterns in your relationships leading to a sense of loneliness and disappointment? Does fear, anxiety or depression get in the way of you experiencing peace? Do you feel disconnected from others and maybe even wonder where God is in your journey in life? You do not have to remain stuck in patterns which you feel powerless to change. Healing is not meant to happen in isolation and I can partner with you to discover what is getting in the way of you attaining a life with more vitality, connection and contentment. We can work together to help you feel more empowered to make the changes within your control.
I integrate Christian beliefs with a holistic approach to neurobiology & emotional wellness, providing a safe environment for reflection & exploration of the issues that matter to you most.
Do you find there are patterns in your relationships leading to a sense of loneliness and disappointment? Does fear, anxiety or depression get in the way of you experiencing peace? Do you feel disconnected from others and maybe even wonder where God is in your journey in life? You do not have to remain stuck in patterns which you feel powerless to change. Healing is not meant to happen in isolation and I can partner with you to discover what is getting in the way of you attaining a life with more vitality, connection and contentment. We can work together to help you feel more empowered to make the changes within your control.
(925) 304-3872 View (925) 304-3872
Photo of Lucinda Guarino, LPCC
Lucinda Guarino
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94804
Hi, there, I'm Lucinda! My name is Lucinda Guarino, and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with women and men ages 14 and over and specialize in anxiety, life transitions, and emotional challenges. I use Humanistic/Existential Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help my clients progress and start feeling better. I'm also happy to work with clients who desire to meet with someone from a faith-based, Christian perspective.
Hi, there, I'm Lucinda! My name is Lucinda Guarino, and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with women and men ages 14 and over and specialize in anxiety, life transitions, and emotional challenges. I use Humanistic/Existential Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help my clients progress and start feeling better. I'm also happy to work with clients who desire to meet with someone from a faith-based, Christian perspective.
(510) 466-1028 View (510) 466-1028
Photo of Gertrude Bonincontro, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gertrude Bonincontro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94801
I have been a Christian all my life and feel very blessed to be doing God's work as His servant.
My name is Gertrude (Trudy) Bonincontro and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology providing telehealth to adults in Northern California. I work with adults who are grieving the loss of their beloved one by having their grief witnessed. Grief is not something you get over, though, under, or around. Grief becomes a part of your life. I am a certified Grief Therapist and utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Narrative concepts to assist with managing grief symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger.
I have been a Christian all my life and feel very blessed to be doing God's work as His servant.
My name is Gertrude (Trudy) Bonincontro and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology providing telehealth to adults in Northern California. I work with adults who are grieving the loss of their beloved one by having their grief witnessed. Grief is not something you get over, though, under, or around. Grief becomes a part of your life. I am a certified Grief Therapist and utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Narrative concepts to assist with managing grief symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger.
(510) 598-3527 View (510) 598-3527
Photo of Kathleen Mazolewski, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Mazolewski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Also, if you embrace a Catholic Christian identity, I would love to address your issues from a Faith perspective.
What is it that causes you so much pain? Frequently our mental health is directly related to unresolved past hurts and traumas. These struggles can be from childhood and our family of origin, or perhaps they show up in the form of shame from choices we have made or choices other's have made against us. I encourage you to begin the work to overcome your negative experiences. Seek counseling if you want support and direction in gaining a positive perspective, want insight into managing difficult circumstances, or want to improve your communication or conflict resolution skills. You deserve to find fulfillment and joy.
Also, if you embrace a Catholic Christian identity, I would love to address your issues from a Faith perspective.
What is it that causes you so much pain? Frequently our mental health is directly related to unresolved past hurts and traumas. These struggles can be from childhood and our family of origin, or perhaps they show up in the form of shame from choices we have made or choices other's have made against us. I encourage you to begin the work to overcome your negative experiences. Seek counseling if you want support and direction in gaining a positive perspective, want insight into managing difficult circumstances, or want to improve your communication or conflict resolution skills. You deserve to find fulfillment and joy.
(925) 478-2642 View (925) 478-2642
Photo of Ying Zheng, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ying Zheng
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94804
Hello, I am Ying Zheng, a California state-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been in this field for a decade, worked in multiple sites such as high school, cross-cultural community center, hospital and church. I would like to see counseling as my passion and life pursuit. I respect everyone’s right to make a decision about faith, but I do approach therapy using Christian perspective and values. In addition, I would borrow techniques from CBT, Motivational Interviewing, client-centered, and psychodynamic.
Hello, I am Ying Zheng, a California state-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been in this field for a decade, worked in multiple sites such as high school, cross-cultural community center, hospital and church. I would like to see counseling as my passion and life pursuit. I respect everyone’s right to make a decision about faith, but I do approach therapy using Christian perspective and values. In addition, I would borrow techniques from CBT, Motivational Interviewing, client-centered, and psychodynamic.
(323) 709-7851 View (323) 709-7851
Photo of Esther Bang, PsyD, PhD, Psychologist
Esther Bang
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94506
My specialty is in working with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, cultural issues, ethnic identity, and integration of psychology and Christian faith.
Often times we experience distress in life without understanding the factors that may contribute to it. We become overwhelmed and frustrated as we try to navigate life's challenges on our own and experience tremendous emotional pain. I am a psychologist with 20 years of clinical experience. My goal is to help you explore obstacles to your growth, gain insight, and provide support and guidance to make necessary changes to alleviate emotional pain, gain self-esteem, and improve your quality of life.
My specialty is in working with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, cultural issues, ethnic identity, and integration of psychology and Christian faith.
Often times we experience distress in life without understanding the factors that may contribute to it. We become overwhelmed and frustrated as we try to navigate life's challenges on our own and experience tremendous emotional pain. I am a psychologist with 20 years of clinical experience. My goal is to help you explore obstacles to your growth, gain insight, and provide support and guidance to make necessary changes to alleviate emotional pain, gain self-esteem, and improve your quality of life.
(213) 444-4238 View (213) 444-4238
Photo of John Rego, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Rego
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakley, CA 94561  (Online Only)
I treat anxiety, depression, and trauma with the following specialties- Grief/ Bereavement, Men’s Mental Health, Faith Based/ Christian Counseling.
Hello, I’m John Rego, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I’ve been practicing for twenty years in a variety of settings including private practice, managed care, and healthcare. My areas of specialty include Grief/ Bereavement, Faith Based Counseling, Men’s Mental Health, and Leadership/ Business consulting. I look forward to meeting with you and guiding you back on your path to wellness. I primarily use a solution-focused and strengths-based approach, however also incorporate CBT, DBT, and Narrative therapy models as well.
I treat anxiety, depression, and trauma with the following specialties- Grief/ Bereavement, Men’s Mental Health, Faith Based/ Christian Counseling.
Hello, I’m John Rego, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I’ve been practicing for twenty years in a variety of settings including private practice, managed care, and healthcare. My areas of specialty include Grief/ Bereavement, Faith Based Counseling, Men’s Mental Health, and Leadership/ Business consulting. I look forward to meeting with you and guiding you back on your path to wellness. I primarily use a solution-focused and strengths-based approach, however also incorporate CBT, DBT, and Narrative therapy models as well.
(626) 635-3215 View (626) 635-3215
Photo of Lindsay Murad, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsay Murad
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94804
For clients interested in Christian counseling, I incorporate wisdom from the Bible to inform identity and faith integration into all areas of life.
My name is Lindsay Murad and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing out of Costa Mesa, California. I work with clients in-person and via telehealth. My therapy style leans more toward coaching so you'll find empathic listening with me while also getting practical and motivational counseling you need to make the life changes you are interested in. I specialize in working with women 18-45 years old who find themselves stuck in interpersonal relationships, career, or life transitions. I consider myself a listener of stories and supporter of personal growth.
For clients interested in Christian counseling, I incorporate wisdom from the Bible to inform identity and faith integration into all areas of life.
My name is Lindsay Murad and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing out of Costa Mesa, California. I work with clients in-person and via telehealth. My therapy style leans more toward coaching so you'll find empathic listening with me while also getting practical and motivational counseling you need to make the life changes you are interested in. I specialize in working with women 18-45 years old who find themselves stuck in interpersonal relationships, career, or life transitions. I consider myself a listener of stories and supporter of personal growth.
(323) 803-7977 View (323) 803-7977
Photo of Lisa LaMoreaux Bergfeld, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa LaMoreaux Bergfeld
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94806
I can also integrate your Christian faith into your session if you choose.
Hello, I am Lisa LaMoreaux Bergfeld LMFT. I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages to help them conquer their life's challenges. I am here to help you learn new ways to navigate your journey through life in a healthier and more productive way. During our initial session, I listen to my client's concerns and their reason for seeking therapy at this time. From there we set goals to create some positive change towards the client's goals. I welcome anyone who wants to better themselves and their relationships. I am here to help my clients restore brokenness in any relationship.
I can also integrate your Christian faith into your session if you choose.
Hello, I am Lisa LaMoreaux Bergfeld LMFT. I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages to help them conquer their life's challenges. I am here to help you learn new ways to navigate your journey through life in a healthier and more productive way. During our initial session, I listen to my client's concerns and their reason for seeking therapy at this time. From there we set goals to create some positive change towards the client's goals. I welcome anyone who wants to better themselves and their relationships. I am here to help my clients restore brokenness in any relationship.
(424) 544-8749 View (424) 544-8749
Photo of Miguel Balderas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miguel Balderas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94531
I also provide Christian-based counseling.
Hello, I am Miguel! My name is Miguel Balderas, and I am an LMFT providing telehealth services to clients throughout the state of California. I work with adults, specializing in couples with relationship issues and individuals with anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, and trauma. I utilize a client-centered approach that is non-judgmental, and empathic, and maintain an open mind to help people find solutions to the issues they bring to therapy. Each person’s perspective of their experiences is unique, and I work with clients to develop a treatment plan that is uniquely tailored to work for them.
I also provide Christian-based counseling.
Hello, I am Miguel! My name is Miguel Balderas, and I am an LMFT providing telehealth services to clients throughout the state of California. I work with adults, specializing in couples with relationship issues and individuals with anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, and trauma. I utilize a client-centered approach that is non-judgmental, and empathic, and maintain an open mind to help people find solutions to the issues they bring to therapy. Each person’s perspective of their experiences is unique, and I work with clients to develop a treatment plan that is uniquely tailored to work for them.
(657) 385-8298 View (657) 385-8298
Photo of Marinés Novoa, PsyD, Psychologist
Marinés Novoa
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
I am also a Catholic Christian Therapist, and upon your request, I can integrate spiritual support into our work.
Deciding to pursue psychotherapy is an important and personal decision. There are various reasons for which someone may pursue psychotherapy, whether it is to cope with current life stressors or to seek support in managing ongoing concerns. Regardless of your reason for pursuing therapy, you should not feel alone in the process and I look forward to working with you on meeting your goals. I am a bilingual (Spanish/English) licensed clinical psychologist who works with adolescents, young adults, and mothers (focusing on maternal mental health) using an integrative approach and tailoring my work to each person's unique story.
I am also a Catholic Christian Therapist, and upon your request, I can integrate spiritual support into our work.
Deciding to pursue psychotherapy is an important and personal decision. There are various reasons for which someone may pursue psychotherapy, whether it is to cope with current life stressors or to seek support in managing ongoing concerns. Regardless of your reason for pursuing therapy, you should not feel alone in the process and I look forward to working with you on meeting your goals. I am a bilingual (Spanish/English) licensed clinical psychologist who works with adolescents, young adults, and mothers (focusing on maternal mental health) using an integrative approach and tailoring my work to each person's unique story.
(925) 854-4467 View (925) 854-4467
Photo of Denise Olson, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Olson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
For those desiring an integration of faith with their work, I am trained in a number of Christian-based treatments that help in navigating your Christian walk and faith while looking at psychological impacts in your life.
My desire is for you to see true change and movement from the things that are holding you back whether depression, anxiety, fear, stress, grief, emotional disconnect, spiritual confusion, or relationship difficulties. I use a variety of psych. techniques tailored specifically for you and your situation. I have extensive training in EMDR, Brain Spotting, and ImTT (Image Transformation Therapy). These treatments provide a way to move you forward in a gentle way. They are also highly effective in helping to gain freedom from deeply ingrained negative beliefs and life experiences that are limiting you..
For those desiring an integration of faith with their work, I am trained in a number of Christian-based treatments that help in navigating your Christian walk and faith while looking at psychological impacts in your life.
My desire is for you to see true change and movement from the things that are holding you back whether depression, anxiety, fear, stress, grief, emotional disconnect, spiritual confusion, or relationship difficulties. I use a variety of psych. techniques tailored specifically for you and your situation. I have extensive training in EMDR, Brain Spotting, and ImTT (Image Transformation Therapy). These treatments provide a way to move you forward in a gentle way. They are also highly effective in helping to gain freedom from deeply ingrained negative beliefs and life experiences that are limiting you..
(925) 489-0626 View (925) 489-0626
Photo of John K Ojewole, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John K Ojewole
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509  (Online Only)
I am a Christian psychotherapist.
You have come to this page for a purpose. I want to welcome you to this page in your exploration of resources for emotional support. Life is full of challenges. The pandemic also brings emotional distress. When we cannot handle life’s situation, it is all right to reach out to someone who could be helpful. I can provide that support. I enjoy working with Couples, Families, and adults who strive to address their hurts, distress, and struggles. If you are troubled, struggling, and emotionally overwhelmed, I have listening ears and an empathic posture to support you. I offer Christian counseling, also. Presently, I provide teletherapy
I am a Christian psychotherapist.
You have come to this page for a purpose. I want to welcome you to this page in your exploration of resources for emotional support. Life is full of challenges. The pandemic also brings emotional distress. When we cannot handle life’s situation, it is all right to reach out to someone who could be helpful. I can provide that support. I enjoy working with Couples, Families, and adults who strive to address their hurts, distress, and struggles. If you are troubled, struggling, and emotionally overwhelmed, I have listening ears and an empathic posture to support you. I offer Christian counseling, also. Presently, I provide teletherapy
(925) 369-7489 View (925) 369-7489
Photo of Barb Peppin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barb Peppin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist and a Christian. I have a passion for helping people who are broken and hurting, but have a desire to heal , and through the process of therapy seeing them grow and change. I enjoy watching God move in their lives towards a healthier more productive and satisfying life.
I am a licensed therapist and a Christian. I have a passion for helping people who are broken and hurting, but have a desire to heal , and through the process of therapy seeing them grow and change. I enjoy watching God move in their lives towards a healthier more productive and satisfying life.
(925) 248-3883 View (925) 248-3883
Photo of Jade DeFrates, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jade DeFrates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I'm a Christian therapist and down to earth.
We as people are are all broken on some level, but we don't need to stay that way. Depending upon the cards we've been dealt in life (what's been done to us, and what we've done to ourselves) fractures in our world view, relationships, and self concept arise. I work best with a client who comes willingly to counseling, is motivated for change, and is open minded to new perspectives of responding to their problems. Many clients comment on the speed with which we are able to resolve their individual concerns.
I'm a Christian therapist and down to earth.
We as people are are all broken on some level, but we don't need to stay that way. Depending upon the cards we've been dealt in life (what's been done to us, and what we've done to ourselves) fractures in our world view, relationships, and self concept arise. I work best with a client who comes willingly to counseling, is motivated for change, and is open minded to new perspectives of responding to their problems. Many clients comment on the speed with which we are able to resolve their individual concerns.
(925) 230-0421 View (925) 230-0421
1
...

See more therapy options for Contra Costa County

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.