Christian Therapists in Decatur, AL
![Photo of Sandra P Griffin - Changing Lanes Christian Wellness Ministries, MA, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c1cbf1a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Changing Lanes Christian Wellness Ministries
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, AL 35601
Not accepting new clients
At Changing Lanes Christian Wellness Ministries and Counseling Center, we seek to inspire hope and faith which are essential for restoring broken lives.
Help is just a phone call away! My name is Sandra Griffin. I believe in a compassionate, caring approach to therapy. I will partner with you to help you walk through many of the struggles of life - family issues, marriage problems, divorce/separation, parenting concerns, job stress, substance abuse recovery, families with loved ones who are addicted to drugs or alcohol, relationship conflicts, life changing events, depression, anxiety, childhood issues, lost dreams and loss of loved ones. We will work together to create a plan to arrive at a solution (s) to manage your life and establish a healing environment for positive growth.
At Changing Lanes Christian Wellness Ministries and Counseling Center, we seek to inspire hope and faith which are essential for restoring broken lives.
Help is just a phone call away! My name is Sandra Griffin. I believe in a compassionate, caring approach to therapy. I will partner with you to help you walk through many of the struggles of life - family issues, marriage problems, divorce/separation, parenting concerns, job stress, substance abuse recovery, families with loved ones who are addicted to drugs or alcohol, relationship conflicts, life changing events, depression, anxiety, childhood issues, lost dreams and loss of loved ones. We will work together to create a plan to arrive at a solution (s) to manage your life and establish a healing environment for positive growth.
![Photo of Kathy Rainwater - Rainwater Counseling, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6a9623-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I help people by listening to what they want from counseling, incorporating their values and Christian values to determine goals. Treatment plans are behavioral and specific using cognitive emotional reframing to achieve positive attitudes. Supportive encouraging confidential responses focus on the person's current and longer term situations. Goals are determined by assessing symptoms and circumstances using Biblical principals. Prayer is included as desired.
I help people by listening to what they want from counseling, incorporating their values and Christian values to determine goals. Treatment plans are behavioral and specific using cognitive emotional reframing to achieve positive attitudes. Supportive encouraging confidential responses focus on the person's current and longer term situations. Goals are determined by assessing symptoms and circumstances using Biblical principals. Prayer is included as desired.
![Photo of Misty L Yates, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a1da7f0-8804-4dfb-80de-6d5e21c68880/2/320x400.jpeg)
Misty L Yates
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, AL 35601
Not accepting new clients
Things my clients often say: "I didn't think my problems were big enough for therapy ...I thought I just needed to try harder ...I had no idea talking to someone would help this much!" Therapy is not just for those with severe mental illness. Therapy is for the overwhelmed mom, still trying to recover from her own wounds. Therapy is for the person who "has it all", but is secretly sad most days. Therapy is for the high-achiever who battles anxiety and fears failure from the moment he opens his eyes. Therapy is for the couple who love each other but don't love their marriage.
Things my clients often say: "I didn't think my problems were big enough for therapy ...I thought I just needed to try harder ...I had no idea talking to someone would help this much!" Therapy is not just for those with severe mental illness. Therapy is for the overwhelmed mom, still trying to recover from her own wounds. Therapy is for the person who "has it all", but is secretly sad most days. Therapy is for the high-achiever who battles anxiety and fears failure from the moment he opens his eyes. Therapy is for the couple who love each other but don't love their marriage.
![Photo of Coleman Alan Thompson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e0da7c0-8fe8-4a46-897a-b7f639d28f71/2/320x400.jpeg)
I think of the relationship between therapist and client as the following quote puts it: "In cultivating compassion we draw from the wholeness of our experiences-our suffering, our empathy as well as our cruelty and terror. It must be this way. Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It is a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity"- The places That Scare You, Pema Chödrön. I have gone on my own journey and hope I can walk with you in yours and be a place of growth.
I think of the relationship between therapist and client as the following quote puts it: "In cultivating compassion we draw from the wholeness of our experiences-our suffering, our empathy as well as our cruelty and terror. It must be this way. Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It is a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity"- The places That Scare You, Pema Chödrön. I have gone on my own journey and hope I can walk with you in yours and be a place of growth.
![Photo of Jeannie M Lynch - Jeannie Lynch, LPC-S, NCC, LLC, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d253f5e-014d-48fe-b4ee-5f13ab612347/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeannie Lynch, LPC-S, NCC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Decatur, AL 35601
Because I am passionate about seeing you improve the quality of your life, I offer therapy with a faith-based perspective that will help you deal with your past, embrace your present, and look ahead to a brighter future filled with healing! I will help you break the chains of addiction, past trauma or abuse, anxiety, depression, and/or mental illness. My greatest asset is creating a counseling environment free from judgment so we can work on your primary concerns and problems, meeting you exactly where you are. We will enjoy a collaborative experience of give and take with the belief that you are the best expert about yourself.
Because I am passionate about seeing you improve the quality of your life, I offer therapy with a faith-based perspective that will help you deal with your past, embrace your present, and look ahead to a brighter future filled with healing! I will help you break the chains of addiction, past trauma or abuse, anxiety, depression, and/or mental illness. My greatest asset is creating a counseling environment free from judgment so we can work on your primary concerns and problems, meeting you exactly where you are. We will enjoy a collaborative experience of give and take with the belief that you are the best expert about yourself.
![Photo of Amy Lea Holdbrooks, MA, ALC, NCC, BSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8780d11b-7423-42d2-99cd-3cb4981ca8c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Lea Holdbrooks
Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, AL 35601
Waitlist for new clients
Many believe expressing your feelings is a sign of weakness, creating a stigma surrounding mental health. However, the exact opposite is true! Knowing when to ask for help shows courage, strength, and wisdom. Physical and emotional health are tightly intertwined. When we know precisely what is wrong, we can face the problem head-on, allowing us to see firsthand that knowledge is power! Evaluation and assessment are KEY.
Many believe expressing your feelings is a sign of weakness, creating a stigma surrounding mental health. However, the exact opposite is true! Knowing when to ask for help shows courage, strength, and wisdom. Physical and emotional health are tightly intertwined. When we know precisely what is wrong, we can face the problem head-on, allowing us to see firsthand that knowledge is power! Evaluation and assessment are KEY.
![Photo of Ashley Bates, MEd, ALC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2ca0cab-537d-4ce2-849d-7671d952243b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Step into a warm and welcoming space where your story finds a home, your experiences are valued, and your path to healing is illuminated. In my counseling practice, I strive to create a safe haven—a place where you can openly share your deepest thoughts and feelings, knowing you'll be met with empathy and respect. I believe in the power of your narrative and your innate wisdom to guide the therapeutic journey. Together, we'll embark on a collaborative exploration, integrating tailored strategies from various evidence-based approaches to address your unique needs and goals.
Step into a warm and welcoming space where your story finds a home, your experiences are valued, and your path to healing is illuminated. In my counseling practice, I strive to create a safe haven—a place where you can openly share your deepest thoughts and feelings, knowing you'll be met with empathy and respect. I believe in the power of your narrative and your innate wisdom to guide the therapeutic journey. Together, we'll embark on a collaborative exploration, integrating tailored strategies from various evidence-based approaches to address your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Ashley Magee Madry - Magee Madry Counseling Services, LLC, LICSW-S, ACSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16daefbc-5d59-4f07-ac61-2ff210af9652/3/320x400.jpeg)
Magee Madry Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S, ACSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, AL 35601
Life is challenging. Everyone experiences life events expected and unexpected. As a therapist I believe in partnering with each client to assist them in identifying their specifics needs and goals to meet the identified needs for treatment success. I engage clients in a supportive and sensitive manner, yet I challenge clients to move them from their comfort zone to encourage their personal and professional growth.
Life is challenging. Everyone experiences life events expected and unexpected. As a therapist I believe in partnering with each client to assist them in identifying their specifics needs and goals to meet the identified needs for treatment success. I engage clients in a supportive and sensitive manner, yet I challenge clients to move them from their comfort zone to encourage their personal and professional growth.
![Photo of Michelle Couey, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b411e4d-9ed5-45ae-98df-46d205ea3832/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you have tried therapy before and were disappointed with the results, keep reading. I do more than just listen. I will provide you with tools, that you can use to make long term, positive changes in your life. Are you tired of feeling burnt out and discouraged from prioritizing others, over yourself? Doubting yourself, and continuing to find yourself in unsatisfying relationships? Do you want to stop feeling guilty and feel confident? Do you feel you are failing at parenting? Feeling lonely or ignored in your relationships? I CAN help. Let 2024 finally be your year of successes!
If you have tried therapy before and were disappointed with the results, keep reading. I do more than just listen. I will provide you with tools, that you can use to make long term, positive changes in your life. Are you tired of feeling burnt out and discouraged from prioritizing others, over yourself? Doubting yourself, and continuing to find yourself in unsatisfying relationships? Do you want to stop feeling guilty and feel confident? Do you feel you are failing at parenting? Feeling lonely or ignored in your relationships? I CAN help. Let 2024 finally be your year of successes!
![Photo of Greg Graham, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76c59c77-397d-4022-90fc-e9eb7d83a7ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide counseling/psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults from all walks of life who are facing many challenges in their lives, are dealing with difficult situations, or have mental health issues they would like to address. I have experience working with clients who have a wide range of mental health issues, relationship difficulties, difficulty coping with change, and daily stressors. I am confident that together, we can accomplish the change you seek. Counseling/psychotherapy is a collaborative process between the client and therapist. We each have a vital part in this process.
I provide counseling/psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults from all walks of life who are facing many challenges in their lives, are dealing with difficult situations, or have mental health issues they would like to address. I have experience working with clients who have a wide range of mental health issues, relationship difficulties, difficulty coping with change, and daily stressors. I am confident that together, we can accomplish the change you seek. Counseling/psychotherapy is a collaborative process between the client and therapist. We each have a vital part in this process.
![Photo of Katie Newberry, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6602a876-f7f3-433d-8fb8-2d2bfdd8ca94/1/320x400.jpeg)
Through my career I have worked with a variety of individuals dealing with many different issues. I have worked with all ages and all stages of life. I have found that, regardless of life stage or difficulty a person is facing, meeting the person where they are is one of the most important aspects of therapy. I am passionate about creating an environment in which my clients feel comfortable being vulnerable so that they can best work towards their goals. The majority of my clinical experience has been working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Through my career I have worked with a variety of individuals dealing with many different issues. I have worked with all ages and all stages of life. I have found that, regardless of life stage or difficulty a person is facing, meeting the person where they are is one of the most important aspects of therapy. I am passionate about creating an environment in which my clients feel comfortable being vulnerable so that they can best work towards their goals. The majority of my clinical experience has been working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
![Photo of Michelle Jennings, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fcf003e-826f-4edf-aad6-8b8394f43617/4/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, AL 35601
Do you ever feel like your emotions are running the show? Do you ignore or "stuff" your emotions? You are not alone! Many people have trouble effectively managing their emotions, which often creates a significant amount of stress. Excessive stress negatively impacts our well being, harms our relationships, and can cause/trigger many other mental health problems. Emotions influence our choices and actions, therefore creating the life that we experience. So, how can you achieve more control over your emotions? By learning to listen, identify, and understand them!
Do you ever feel like your emotions are running the show? Do you ignore or "stuff" your emotions? You are not alone! Many people have trouble effectively managing their emotions, which often creates a significant amount of stress. Excessive stress negatively impacts our well being, harms our relationships, and can cause/trigger many other mental health problems. Emotions influence our choices and actions, therefore creating the life that we experience. So, how can you achieve more control over your emotions? By learning to listen, identify, and understand them!
![Photo of Dr. DaNella C. Knight, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6efa8c7e-f46e-4d05-988d-46c563dd5d80/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm passionate about seeing brokenness restored and helping others live fulfilling, rewarding lives. You are more powerful than you can even imagine, and we at The Healing Collective want to see that power unlocked and in motion. I conduct comprehensive psychological evaluations and neuropsychological screenings to help clarify the correct diagnosis and recommend the best treatment going forward. All calls/emails forward to our Practice Admin, Bri Smith, who responds within 48-72 business hours to schedule you. Dr. Clarissa Tibbs, LPC of Joyful Healing has joined THC and is also providing individual counseling for ages 18-60.
I'm passionate about seeing brokenness restored and helping others live fulfilling, rewarding lives. You are more powerful than you can even imagine, and we at The Healing Collective want to see that power unlocked and in motion. I conduct comprehensive psychological evaluations and neuropsychological screenings to help clarify the correct diagnosis and recommend the best treatment going forward. All calls/emails forward to our Practice Admin, Bri Smith, who responds within 48-72 business hours to schedule you. Dr. Clarissa Tibbs, LPC of Joyful Healing has joined THC and is also providing individual counseling for ages 18-60.
![Photo of Elizabeth Graves, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89627308-b1ff-4835-8ce1-30a4a0460998/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Graves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, AL 35601
If 2020 has taught us anything it is that our lives can change in an instant. We had to learn how to navigate working from home, homeschooling our children, social distancing, and being away from our loved ones. Throughout these difficult times it is easy to forget about our mental health and how much it effects our physical health. My name is Elizabeth, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with all populations and have come to believe therapy is about respect and meeting people in their current season of life. I have experience providing individual and family therapy to children, adults,
If 2020 has taught us anything it is that our lives can change in an instant. We had to learn how to navigate working from home, homeschooling our children, social distancing, and being away from our loved ones. Throughout these difficult times it is easy to forget about our mental health and how much it effects our physical health. My name is Elizabeth, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with all populations and have come to believe therapy is about respect and meeting people in their current season of life. I have experience providing individual and family therapy to children, adults,
![Photo of Christy Elzer, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d525a39-ac90-4956-9e13-a86e9e5d4a44/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christy Elzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, AL 35609
Schedule online at counselinghuntsville.com/contact Thank you for taking the time to explore my profile. I understand how challenging it can be to choose the right support when facing difficult life issues. My hope is that I can play a small role in guiding you towards a path of healing. In my practice, I believe in going beyond traditional talk therapy. Each session is a chance for us to explore your history, unraveling every facet of your symptoms and challenges. This understanding is not just empowering for you but also paves the way for us to work together in setting meaningful goals for your journey towards healing and growth.
Schedule online at counselinghuntsville.com/contact Thank you for taking the time to explore my profile. I understand how challenging it can be to choose the right support when facing difficult life issues. My hope is that I can play a small role in guiding you towards a path of healing. In my practice, I believe in going beyond traditional talk therapy. Each session is a chance for us to explore your history, unraveling every facet of your symptoms and challenges. This understanding is not just empowering for you but also paves the way for us to work together in setting meaningful goals for your journey towards healing and growth.
![Photo of Dr. Sandra Bruno - Still Waters Counseling Center, MS, DMin, LMFT, AADC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef3ea7a2-251d-4cca-a02f-7ab8117d8e36/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sandra Bruno - Still Waters Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, DMin, LMFT, AADC
Verified Verified
Decatur, AL 35601
Whether you're looking for a therapist for a short-term issue or long-term "unraveling" of past issues, I have a myriad of evidence-based techniques and treatments in my toolkit. You will always find me Person-Centered, meaning our therapeutic alliance will be built on genuine care, concern, and respect. The therapeutic alliance between me as the therapist and you as the client must be one of trust and empathy in order to do our best work. I value this trust and, in return, place a high priority on protecting your privacy and well-being. Let's chat about how I might walk alongside you in your journey of growth and healing.
Whether you're looking for a therapist for a short-term issue or long-term "unraveling" of past issues, I have a myriad of evidence-based techniques and treatments in my toolkit. You will always find me Person-Centered, meaning our therapeutic alliance will be built on genuine care, concern, and respect. The therapeutic alliance between me as the therapist and you as the client must be one of trust and empathy in order to do our best work. I value this trust and, in return, place a high priority on protecting your privacy and well-being. Let's chat about how I might walk alongside you in your journey of growth and healing.
![Photo of Chris Allison, MS, ALC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0abb0769-9428-4914-9417-ed572edfbca6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life so often gets in the way of us being who we really want to be, especially with the amount of distractions and chaos that we face today. I believe that we all have the ability to overcome those distractions and live life to the fullest. Sometimes those distractions are big things like psychological or medical diagnoses, divorce, or other big life events that steal our energy and focus. Sometimes they are less dramatic but still effect us greatly, like moving, changing jobs, or having anxiety or depression. My focus in counseling is learning who you are, what your goals are, and how I can best help you achieve them.
Life so often gets in the way of us being who we really want to be, especially with the amount of distractions and chaos that we face today. I believe that we all have the ability to overcome those distractions and live life to the fullest. Sometimes those distractions are big things like psychological or medical diagnoses, divorce, or other big life events that steal our energy and focus. Sometimes they are less dramatic but still effect us greatly, like moving, changing jobs, or having anxiety or depression. My focus in counseling is learning who you are, what your goals are, and how I can best help you achieve them.
![Photo of Cadara E Parks - C. E. Parks, LLC, LPC, RPT, ECMH-E®, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c43aeaf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
C. E. Parks, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, ECMH-E®, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, AL 35602
Not accepting new clients
My personal model of counseling begins with Alfred Adler’s belief that an individual begins to form an approach to life in the first 6 years of life (Cory, 2013). Because of this belief I refer to Erik Erikson’s psychosocial stages of development, particularly the infancy, early childhood, preschool and elementary age stages. As a Registered Play Therapist I will be able to provide mental health therapy for some of the youngest children in the Northern Alabama area. Play therapy serves the many needs of children who have been abused physically, emotionally, and mentally; many even before they were born.
My personal model of counseling begins with Alfred Adler’s belief that an individual begins to form an approach to life in the first 6 years of life (Cory, 2013). Because of this belief I refer to Erik Erikson’s psychosocial stages of development, particularly the infancy, early childhood, preschool and elementary age stages. As a Registered Play Therapist I will be able to provide mental health therapy for some of the youngest children in the Northern Alabama area. Play therapy serves the many needs of children who have been abused physically, emotionally, and mentally; many even before they were born.
![Photo of Kristeona Pitts Watkins, EdS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25b22406-a325-47f8-b17d-1179c156cb99/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristeona Pitts Watkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, AL 35603
Now Accepting BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama and Aetna Insurance! Greetings! Since 2016, I’ve been a trusted partner for my clients in helping them achieve healthy and balanced personal lives and relationships. As a licensed Mental Health Counselor, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. My experience allows me to understand the best ways to address your needs in an effective manner.
Now Accepting BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama and Aetna Insurance! Greetings! Since 2016, I’ve been a trusted partner for my clients in helping them achieve healthy and balanced personal lives and relationships. As a licensed Mental Health Counselor, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. My experience allows me to understand the best ways to address your needs in an effective manner.
![Photo of Heather S. Lawson (Online And In Office), MSMFT, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a357dc8-2bee-47a8-8de5-3d23eb8e7a5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather S. Lawson (Online And In Office)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSMFT, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, AL 35601
The storms of life can be difficult to withstand at times. You don't have to go through them alone. Hi, I’m Heather Lawson owner of Redwood Counseling, LLC in Hartselle, AL. I am a licensed professional counselor with over ten years of experience. Whether it’s a mood disorder, trauma, marital or family issues, I am here to help. Together, we will identify and access your strengths and values, collaborate on solutions, and strengthen your resilience by providing you with new skills to help you grow through and heal from the difficult moments in life.
The storms of life can be difficult to withstand at times. You don't have to go through them alone. Hi, I’m Heather Lawson owner of Redwood Counseling, LLC in Hartselle, AL. I am a licensed professional counselor with over ten years of experience. Whether it’s a mood disorder, trauma, marital or family issues, I am here to help. Together, we will identify and access your strengths and values, collaborate on solutions, and strengthen your resilience by providing you with new skills to help you grow through and heal from the difficult moments in life.
See more therapy options for Decatur
Nearby Christian Therapists Searches for Decatur
See More Christian TherapistsChristian 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.