Christian Therapists in Bellevue, WA

Photo of Summer Fleming, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Summer Fleming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
My professional practice is characterized by a deep sense of compassion, empathy, and faith, guiding others through their struggles, be it emotional turmoil or mental health challenges. I am steadfast in my resolve to confront issues directly, encouraging progress and goal attainment. My approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, supplemented by Christian principles where welcomed, and always maintaining a holistic perspective.
My professional practice is characterized by a deep sense of compassion, empathy, and faith, guiding others through their struggles, be it emotional turmoil or mental health challenges. I am steadfast in my resolve to confront issues directly, encouraging progress and goal attainment. My approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, supplemented by Christian principles where welcomed, and always maintaining a holistic perspective.
(206) 737-3960 View (206) 737-3960
Photo of Tori Dabasinskas - Tori Dabasinskas, LMFT, LPCC, MA, LMFT, LPCC, S-PSB, AF-EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tori Dabasinskas, LMFT, LPCC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC, S-PSB, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Waitlist for new clients
Married 25+ years, Parenting Teens, Being the Wife of a Christian Pastor, Consulting with business owners/employees thru my employee consultation program, Teaching Internationally, Facilitating multiple classes for men, women and teens has all provided me with a wealth of professional and personal experience to listen and support all people with deep compassion and care.
I am passionate about working alongside an individual, couple or family motivated to live to their fullest potential in relationships! It is a privilege to be invited into a life story. I take it seriously, work with efficiency and excellence right along with my clients. We listen, we laugh, we cry, we look at what has worked in the past and what can change now. I am creative, confidential, encouraging and empathetic. I love working with people. The Bible tells us we are beautifully and wonderfully made with a hope and a future. I believe this. I live and work into this truth with hope!
Married 25+ years, Parenting Teens, Being the Wife of a Christian Pastor, Consulting with business owners/employees thru my employee consultation program, Teaching Internationally, Facilitating multiple classes for men, women and teens has all provided me with a wealth of professional and personal experience to listen and support all people with deep compassion and care.
I am passionate about working alongside an individual, couple or family motivated to live to their fullest potential in relationships! It is a privilege to be invited into a life story. I take it seriously, work with efficiency and excellence right along with my clients. We listen, we laugh, we cry, we look at what has worked in the past and what can change now. I am creative, confidential, encouraging and empathetic. I love working with people. The Bible tells us we are beautifully and wonderfully made with a hope and a future. I believe this. I live and work into this truth with hope!
(925) 402-4527 View (925) 402-4527
Photo of Shirley Lytle, MDiv, LMHC, CSAT, Gottman, CPTT, Counselor
Shirley Lytle
Counselor, MDiv, LMHC, CSAT, Gottman, CPTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
My Christian counseling approach while integrating psychotherapy.
I help individuals, couples and families deal with the tension that comes with life transitions. My approach integrates counseling and spirituality. It encourages hope and empowerment to the lost, lonely, and left out, allowing them to move to a place of wholeness and healing. Working with a wide spectrum of cultural and religious backgrounds, I have the ability to meet people where they are at in their journey. Over the past 20 years, I have provided pre-marital and couples counseling through various relationship levels including marriage contemplation, pre-engagement, engaged and married to decoupling/divorce.
My Christian counseling approach while integrating psychotherapy.
I help individuals, couples and families deal with the tension that comes with life transitions. My approach integrates counseling and spirituality. It encourages hope and empowerment to the lost, lonely, and left out, allowing them to move to a place of wholeness and healing. Working with a wide spectrum of cultural and religious backgrounds, I have the ability to meet people where they are at in their journey. Over the past 20 years, I have provided pre-marital and couples counseling through various relationship levels including marriage contemplation, pre-engagement, engaged and married to decoupling/divorce.
(425) 341-1490 View (425) 341-1490
Photo of Daniel McKenzie, MS, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel McKenzie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am a Christian and a Therapist, but not a 'Christian therapist.
Doesn't life feel too hard sometimes? Whether you're struggling with negative emotions, had something happen to you, or created a mess of your own, I want to help you find your way again and for you to know you're not alone. I've been helping adults, couples, parents, and families for over 15 years get their lives moving in the direction they want again, and hope you'll give me a chance too. I offer a client-centered approach for your unique situation and needs. For some people and in some stages of therapy I'll do a lot of listening. For other people and stages, I'll provide perspective and guidance as desired.
I am a Christian and a Therapist, but not a 'Christian therapist.
Doesn't life feel too hard sometimes? Whether you're struggling with negative emotions, had something happen to you, or created a mess of your own, I want to help you find your way again and for you to know you're not alone. I've been helping adults, couples, parents, and families for over 15 years get their lives moving in the direction they want again, and hope you'll give me a chance too. I offer a client-centered approach for your unique situation and needs. For some people and in some stages of therapy I'll do a lot of listening. For other people and stages, I'll provide perspective and guidance as desired.
(206) 900-8208 View (206) 900-8208
Photo of Jen Peters, MA, LMFT, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jen Peters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008  (Online Only)
As a faith-based counselor, I help Christian clients address their challenges using sound Biblical doctrine.
I specialize in treating all forms of anxiety, grief & loss, and family conflict. In addition, I have extensive experience guiding parents toward more connected relationships with their children. I especially enjoy working with new moms and parents of toddlers. I also have a special interest helping individuals increase their self-esteem by helping you identify your strengths, increase your level of confidence, and create positive, healthy goals for yourself.
As a faith-based counselor, I help Christian clients address their challenges using sound Biblical doctrine.
I specialize in treating all forms of anxiety, grief & loss, and family conflict. In addition, I have extensive experience guiding parents toward more connected relationships with their children. I especially enjoy working with new moms and parents of toddlers. I also have a special interest helping individuals increase their self-esteem by helping you identify your strengths, increase your level of confidence, and create positive, healthy goals for yourself.
(425) 437-3551 View (425) 437-3551
Photo of Larry Mark, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Larry Mark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I help individual men grow their mental and relational health and couples interested in increasing emotional connections. I have experienced many of the issues my clients struggle with, including marital crisis, the loss of a child and professional disappointments. I provide pre-marital counseling, support for parents, leaders and have helped people face addictions, recover from abuse and betrayal and explore spiritual growth from a Christian perspective.
I help individual men grow their mental and relational health and couples interested in increasing emotional connections. I have experienced many of the issues my clients struggle with, including marital crisis, the loss of a child and professional disappointments. I provide pre-marital counseling, support for parents, leaders and have helped people face addictions, recover from abuse and betrayal and explore spiritual growth from a Christian perspective.
(425) 242-3259 View (425) 242-3259
Photo of Janette Allred Howarth, PhD, LCPC, LMHP, Counselor
Janette Allred Howarth
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LMHP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am a Christian, active in my chosen faith.
My professional interests and current training experience are in the area of personality and mood disorders. I have certification in treating psychological trauma and it connection to addiction. It is critical that professionals are trained in handling psychological trauma and addiction brought on by a variety of factors, including mental health factors. I identify the basis of negative emotional reactivity, look at the motivational factors of deviant behavior or impulsive behaviors in general and assist the client in gaining healthy life skills that will help them through their difficulties.
I am a Christian, active in my chosen faith.
My professional interests and current training experience are in the area of personality and mood disorders. I have certification in treating psychological trauma and it connection to addiction. It is critical that professionals are trained in handling psychological trauma and addiction brought on by a variety of factors, including mental health factors. I identify the basis of negative emotional reactivity, look at the motivational factors of deviant behavior or impulsive behaviors in general and assist the client in gaining healthy life skills that will help them through their difficulties.
(425) 620-3179 View (425) 620-3179
Photo of Mark Liu, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
My decision to pursue counseling came at late midlife, which, together with my Christian belief and multi-cultural background, gave me, as a counselor/therapist, an advantage of a integrative perspective of life development, roots of human beings' suffering, life meaning and needed coping skills, and mostly - hope in life.
I perceive life as a journey, consisting of searching meaning and coping: Meaning in different roles and aspects of life motivates us to move forward; coping is strategies to get there from here. However, at different life stages, we often got stuck because of different reasons. Thus, either we no longer can see the life meaning(s) and/or our coping strategies are no longer effective. We are likely stuck under these circumstances, which leads to sufferings. I believe that counseling is a catalyst to facilitate the needed changes & adjustments to get unstuck and to have a meaningful life again.
My decision to pursue counseling came at late midlife, which, together with my Christian belief and multi-cultural background, gave me, as a counselor/therapist, an advantage of a integrative perspective of life development, roots of human beings' suffering, life meaning and needed coping skills, and mostly - hope in life.
I perceive life as a journey, consisting of searching meaning and coping: Meaning in different roles and aspects of life motivates us to move forward; coping is strategies to get there from here. However, at different life stages, we often got stuck because of different reasons. Thus, either we no longer can see the life meaning(s) and/or our coping strategies are no longer effective. We are likely stuck under these circumstances, which leads to sufferings. I believe that counseling is a catalyst to facilitate the needed changes & adjustments to get unstuck and to have a meaningful life again.
(425) 374-0069 View (425) 374-0069
Photo of Sandra Hong, MACP, LMHCA, MHP, Counselor
Sandra Hong
Counselor, MACP, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
My practice is catered to promoting the mental health of adolescents and adults. My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, interpersonal issues, and self-esteem. My goal is to provide a safe place for individuals to share their stories, provide coping strategies and perspective, and empower individuals to make changes according to their goals and values. I am a female Christian therapist with experience in both faith-based and traditional counseling. It is a passion of mine to integrate faith into our work together. I am happy to base my care on your preferences and will work with what is comfortable for you.
My practice is catered to promoting the mental health of adolescents and adults. My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, interpersonal issues, and self-esteem. My goal is to provide a safe place for individuals to share their stories, provide coping strategies and perspective, and empower individuals to make changes according to their goals and values. I am a female Christian therapist with experience in both faith-based and traditional counseling. It is a passion of mine to integrate faith into our work together. I am happy to base my care on your preferences and will work with what is comfortable for you.
(425) 399-8012 View (425) 399-8012
Photo of Benjamin Deu, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Benjamin Deu
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98007
Not accepting new clients
My primary areas of focus include Christian counseling for individuals and married couples, issues of sexuality, substance abuse struggles, relational concerns, self-esteem difficulties, and the lasting effects that accompany trauma and abuse.
I have extensive experience counseling individuals and couples who are dealing with a wide variety of concerns, including relational issues, communication difficulties, and painful wounds related to trauma and abuse. I work with my clients on a relational level, seeking to uncover the ways in which particular circumstances and situations affect the whole person-mind, body, and soul. Together we will explore the reasons why you find yourself facing repeated undesirable challenges, and how to overcome them with new and better solutions. I will cater my approach to your needs in order to guide you toward lasting, positive change.
My primary areas of focus include Christian counseling for individuals and married couples, issues of sexuality, substance abuse struggles, relational concerns, self-esteem difficulties, and the lasting effects that accompany trauma and abuse.
I have extensive experience counseling individuals and couples who are dealing with a wide variety of concerns, including relational issues, communication difficulties, and painful wounds related to trauma and abuse. I work with my clients on a relational level, seeking to uncover the ways in which particular circumstances and situations affect the whole person-mind, body, and soul. Together we will explore the reasons why you find yourself facing repeated undesirable challenges, and how to overcome them with new and better solutions. I will cater my approach to your needs in order to guide you toward lasting, positive change.
(425) 954-7840 View (425) 954-7840
Photo of Joshua Loy - New Ground Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
New Ground Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Mental Health Counseling from a Christian Perspective. Since 2014, we've seen over 1000 clients, seeking the best care for individuals, families, children, and marriages. New Ground has more 5-Star Google Reviews than any counseling business in Redmond (or any of its surrounding cities). Read testimonials at www.newgroundcounseling.com: "Joshua Loy saved my marriage when it was in shambles. He walked with us when we were at our worst & struggling in so many areas. With wisdom and delicacy he led us through reconciliation, created assignments for us to see one another, and led us back to closeness in our marriage and with God."
Mental Health Counseling from a Christian Perspective. Since 2014, we've seen over 1000 clients, seeking the best care for individuals, families, children, and marriages. New Ground has more 5-Star Google Reviews than any counseling business in Redmond (or any of its surrounding cities). Read testimonials at www.newgroundcounseling.com: "Joshua Loy saved my marriage when it was in shambles. He walked with us when we were at our worst & struggling in so many areas. With wisdom and delicacy he led us through reconciliation, created assignments for us to see one another, and led us back to closeness in our marriage and with God."
(206) 202-5962 View (206) 202-5962
Photo of Natasha Hendricks, MA, LMHC, CMNCS, NCC, Counselor
Natasha Hendricks
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMNCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
There is healing and transformation through connection. You are not alone and there is hope and healing for your pain. I specialize in EMDR and Mental Health and Nutrition allowing me to have a holistic approach to your healing. I focus on neuroscience-based counseling methods. Integrating EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Christian Counseling Methods and mindfulness is a powerful collaboration. Incorporating the mind-body connection into the skills and tools I offer clients helps aid them in regulating their nervous system.
There is healing and transformation through connection. You are not alone and there is hope and healing for your pain. I specialize in EMDR and Mental Health and Nutrition allowing me to have a holistic approach to your healing. I focus on neuroscience-based counseling methods. Integrating EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Christian Counseling Methods and mindfulness is a powerful collaboration. Incorporating the mind-body connection into the skills and tools I offer clients helps aid them in regulating their nervous system.
(360) 869-0504 View (360) 869-0504
Photo of Heidi Kinsella - Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching, LMHC, SUDP, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT, Counselor
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
We practice EMDR, Couples EFT, Gottman, Lifespan Integration, Carnes 30 Task Model, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Christian Counseling.
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching is group practice of therapists and coaches who specialize in addiction including alcohol and drug addiction, sex addiction, pornography addiction, love addiction and partner betrayal trauma. All of the therapists and coaches at Fourth Dimension are in long term substance abuse recovery themselves and are experts in the field of addiction. They also have extensive training in couples therapy, infidelity, codependency, family of origin, women's issues, domestic violence, trauma and life transitions. We offer individual, couples and group therapy and coaching for both men and women.
We practice EMDR, Couples EFT, Gottman, Lifespan Integration, Carnes 30 Task Model, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Christian Counseling.
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching is group practice of therapists and coaches who specialize in addiction including alcohol and drug addiction, sex addiction, pornography addiction, love addiction and partner betrayal trauma. All of the therapists and coaches at Fourth Dimension are in long term substance abuse recovery themselves and are experts in the field of addiction. They also have extensive training in couples therapy, infidelity, codependency, family of origin, women's issues, domestic violence, trauma and life transitions. We offer individual, couples and group therapy and coaching for both men and women.
(425) 652-1690 View (425) 652-1690
Photo of Marilyn Baker, MA, LMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Marilyn Baker
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Marilyn Baker is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with experience in corporate and nonprofit sectors working with diverse populations and internationally. She has been involved in Christian ministry since 2016 and received her graduate degree from Western Seminary. She focuses on providing direct counseling services to those in high-stress work environments and those struggling with chronic physical or emotional burdens.
Marilyn Baker is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with experience in corporate and nonprofit sectors working with diverse populations and internationally. She has been involved in Christian ministry since 2016 and received her graduate degree from Western Seminary. She focuses on providing direct counseling services to those in high-stress work environments and those struggling with chronic physical or emotional burdens.
(206) 594-5075 View (206) 594-5075
Photo of Drew Hale, LMHCA, Counselor
Drew Hale
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Are you wrestling with anxiety, depression, or failure in relationships? Are you struggling to understand your present struggles within the context of your faith and understanding of God? At New Mind Christian Counseling, I offer compassionate, Bible-based counseling tailored to your unique situation. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where we can explore your challenges and work towards the "abundant life" that Christ promises.
Are you wrestling with anxiety, depression, or failure in relationships? Are you struggling to understand your present struggles within the context of your faith and understanding of God? At New Mind Christian Counseling, I offer compassionate, Bible-based counseling tailored to your unique situation. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where we can explore your challenges and work towards the "abundant life" that Christ promises.
View
Photo of France Dutra, MA, LMHC, CEDS, Counselor
France Dutra
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
Begin your healing journey! It takes courage to seek help. You have taken the first step. As licensed mental health counselor and eating disorder specialist with over 12 years of experience, I am here to listen to your unique story and understand your specific needs to overcome fears and shame, while guiding you to uncover the very best in you - The real you! With personalized care providing support and understanding, allowing a safe space where your voice is heard and valued. Holistic approach, integrating mind, body, and spirit in the healing journey. Faith integration for those interested, offering a Christian perspective.
Begin your healing journey! It takes courage to seek help. You have taken the first step. As licensed mental health counselor and eating disorder specialist with over 12 years of experience, I am here to listen to your unique story and understand your specific needs to overcome fears and shame, while guiding you to uncover the very best in you - The real you! With personalized care providing support and understanding, allowing a safe space where your voice is heard and valued. Holistic approach, integrating mind, body, and spirit in the healing journey. Faith integration for those interested, offering a Christian perspective.
(425) 629-0436 View (425) 629-0436
Photo of Rosa Nicole Booker, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Rosa Nicole Booker
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Not accepting new clients
You made it this far! I really love working with couples and families on communication and intimacy. I focus on strengths and building skills to produce healthy bonds that last. Together, we'll discover ways to improve understanding, interactions, and connectedness. I support families who want to function with more meaning and uncover hidden values. I come with Christian experience and enjoy helping families explore ways they can incorporate their personal belief systems. My commitment is making space for clients to identify personal and cultural sources of spiritual and natural encouragement to take part in the healing.
You made it this far! I really love working with couples and families on communication and intimacy. I focus on strengths and building skills to produce healthy bonds that last. Together, we'll discover ways to improve understanding, interactions, and connectedness. I support families who want to function with more meaning and uncover hidden values. I come with Christian experience and enjoy helping families explore ways they can incorporate their personal belief systems. My commitment is making space for clients to identify personal and cultural sources of spiritual and natural encouragement to take part in the healing.
Photo of Christian St Jacques, LMHCA, MA, Counselor
Christian St Jacques
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Christian St. Jacques is a licensed mental health care associate (LMHCA) in Washington State who received his Masters in Counseling and Mental Health at Northwest University. He specializes in working with teens, young and older adult males, and couples. Christian draws from a variety of evidence-based approaches including Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment, Family Systems model, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy.
Christian St. Jacques is a licensed mental health care associate (LMHCA) in Washington State who received his Masters in Counseling and Mental Health at Northwest University. He specializes in working with teens, young and older adult males, and couples. Christian draws from a variety of evidence-based approaches including Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment, Family Systems model, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy.
(425) 217-2079 View (425) 217-2079
Photo of Christine Russell, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Christine Russell
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
As a Christian, I am happy to offer prayer if desired.
Are you experiencing anxiety, or are you showing signs of trauma? You are not alone. Please know that you have someone in your corner to support you. If you are having reoccurring negative thoughts and memories replaying in your mind, there is hope. Here, you can feel understood by processing your concerns. Empathy is at the center of facilitating an environment where you can share your struggles and feel comfortable so you do not experience and process unbearable, repetitive pain from isolation.
As a Christian, I am happy to offer prayer if desired.
Are you experiencing anxiety, or are you showing signs of trauma? You are not alone. Please know that you have someone in your corner to support you. If you are having reoccurring negative thoughts and memories replaying in your mind, there is hope. Here, you can feel understood by processing your concerns. Empathy is at the center of facilitating an environment where you can share your struggles and feel comfortable so you do not experience and process unbearable, repetitive pain from isolation.
(425) 386-7900 View (425) 386-7900
Photo of Luke Thao, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Luke Thao
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006  (Online Only)
Growing up Hmong-American (second generation), gay, and Christian (nondenominational, pastor’s kid), I can appreciate the intersectional experience of navigating multiple and competing identities.
I especially enjoy working with those interested in exploring: socialized masculinity and sexuality (e.g. regulating sexual behaviors / OCSB-informed, desire discrepancy, body image, values and beliefs...), the specific interaction of faith/spirituality and sexuality (e.g. shame, trauma...), intersectional identity work (i.e. our complex and interacting layers as people), surviving dating, navigating life transitions, and living with anxiety (e.g. social, highly sensitive person...) and depression.
Growing up Hmong-American (second generation), gay, and Christian (nondenominational, pastor’s kid), I can appreciate the intersectional experience of navigating multiple and competing identities.
I especially enjoy working with those interested in exploring: socialized masculinity and sexuality (e.g. regulating sexual behaviors / OCSB-informed, desire discrepancy, body image, values and beliefs...), the specific interaction of faith/spirituality and sexuality (e.g. shame, trauma...), intersectional identity work (i.e. our complex and interacting layers as people), surviving dating, navigating life transitions, and living with anxiety (e.g. social, highly sensitive person...) and depression.
View
1
...
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.