Christian Therapists in Saint Petersburg, FL

Photo of Amy Vitacolonna, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Vitacolonna
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I also specialize in Christian Counseling with a strong biblical, spirit lead approach for those who are looking for a faith based approach.
Are you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Sometimes life brings us to a place where we need to reach out and find help. If this is you, I would love to partner with you and help you find relief. Healing is about connecting with your true inner self and finding peace. Counseling is most effective when there is a connection with your therapist while discovering the triggers, patterns, and thoughts that often interrupt our quality of life. Come and discover how it feels to be heard, validated, and cared for! I bring a Biblically solid Christian perspective to the counseling session if desired.
I also specialize in Christian Counseling with a strong biblical, spirit lead approach for those who are looking for a faith based approach.
Are you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Sometimes life brings us to a place where we need to reach out and find help. If this is you, I would love to partner with you and help you find relief. Healing is about connecting with your true inner self and finding peace. Counseling is most effective when there is a connection with your therapist while discovering the triggers, patterns, and thoughts that often interrupt our quality of life. Come and discover how it feels to be heard, validated, and cared for! I bring a Biblically solid Christian perspective to the counseling session if desired.
(727) 855-7574 View (727) 855-7574
Photo of Tabitha Soderstrom Florida Anxiety And Trauma Therapist, MS, Counselor
Tabitha Soderstrom Florida Anxiety And Trauma Therapist
Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
As a Christian therapist specializing in EMDR & CBT for trauma and anxiety, I help individual adults create positive coping skills to navigate anxiety and depression and process traumatic memories.
Dealing with constant worry, anxiety, or self-doubt can feel like an uphill battle! Events from your past might be affecting your day-to-day life, causing you to carry unnecessary guilt, shame, or fear. Maybe you feel like, no matter what you do, you simply aren’t good enough. Or maybe you’ve reached the end of your rope with flashbacks, nightmares, sleep issues, or anxiety attacks. No matter if you suffer from anxiety that you can’t explain or are able to trace your challenges back to specific events in your past, I am here to help you navigate from hurt to healing. At this time, I have daytime/weekday availability!
As a Christian therapist specializing in EMDR & CBT for trauma and anxiety, I help individual adults create positive coping skills to navigate anxiety and depression and process traumatic memories.
Dealing with constant worry, anxiety, or self-doubt can feel like an uphill battle! Events from your past might be affecting your day-to-day life, causing you to carry unnecessary guilt, shame, or fear. Maybe you feel like, no matter what you do, you simply aren’t good enough. Or maybe you’ve reached the end of your rope with flashbacks, nightmares, sleep issues, or anxiety attacks. No matter if you suffer from anxiety that you can’t explain or are able to trace your challenges back to specific events in your past, I am here to help you navigate from hurt to healing. At this time, I have daytime/weekday availability!
View
Photo of Jessica Futoran, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica Futoran
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I generally approach therapy from a Christian perspective and believe that the Bible is the ultimate source of strength and support.
Hello! I'm Jessica, a licensed mental health counselor with over twelve years of professional experience. My aim is to offer a safe space for you to express your pain, and navigate through past traumas or current difficulties. I approach each situation with empathy and compassion, assisting you in addressing and altering unproductive patterns and habits to work toward a happier and healthier you!
I generally approach therapy from a Christian perspective and believe that the Bible is the ultimate source of strength and support.
Hello! I'm Jessica, a licensed mental health counselor with over twelve years of professional experience. My aim is to offer a safe space for you to express your pain, and navigate through past traumas or current difficulties. I approach each situation with empathy and compassion, assisting you in addressing and altering unproductive patterns and habits to work toward a happier and healthier you!
(727) 604-6476 View (727) 604-6476
Photo of Dr. Carlos Bonilla - New Hope Psychology Center , PsyD, LP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Hope Psychology Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
We are therapists with Christian values who, through a comprehensive approach, seek to help you develop resilience and well-being so that you can achieve your life goals.
Do you need a therapist who speaks Spanish and with whom you can express yourself freely? We are accepting new clients who live in FL, MN, IL, PR, and more! If your emotions take control of your life, or anxiety and depression are affecting your functioning. Or if you feel unstable and without tools in your relationship with your partner or others, we are here to help you. The feelings you experience can be exhausting and frightening, and you don't deserve to continue suffering from this without help. We are here to walk with you, support you, and empower you on your journey to a happy, fulfilling, and purposeful life.
We are therapists with Christian values who, through a comprehensive approach, seek to help you develop resilience and well-being so that you can achieve your life goals.
Do you need a therapist who speaks Spanish and with whom you can express yourself freely? We are accepting new clients who live in FL, MN, IL, PR, and more! If your emotions take control of your life, or anxiety and depression are affecting your functioning. Or if you feel unstable and without tools in your relationship with your partner or others, we are here to help you. The feelings you experience can be exhausting and frightening, and you don't deserve to continue suffering from this without help. We are here to walk with you, support you, and empower you on your journey to a happy, fulfilling, and purposeful life.
(952) 592-8609 View (952) 592-8609
Photo of Rudi Maria McKenzie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rudi Maria McKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Rudi is a licensed clinical social worker with an additional master’s degree in Christian psychological studies. Her specialty is working with those transitioning through spiritual, depressive, and/or anxiety issues. She uses a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy along with an individualized approach tailored to meet the needs of each client.
Rudi is a licensed clinical social worker with an additional master’s degree in Christian psychological studies. Her specialty is working with those transitioning through spiritual, depressive, and/or anxiety issues. She uses a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy along with an individualized approach tailored to meet the needs of each client.
(404) 341-6637 View (404) 341-6637
Photo of Toy Newcomb - Renewal Christian Counseling, PLLC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renewal Christian Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I look forward to working with you whether you are seeking Christian counseling or non-faith based counseling.
My counseling experience includes working with individuals who have experienced a variety of reasons for seeking help to include but not limited to trauma, grief/loss, substance abuse, self-worth/self-esteem issues, stress management, relationship challenges, symptom management, spiritual conflicts, effective/assertive communication, depression and anxiety. Additionally, I have facilitated support and counseling groups for the geriatric population and their adult caregivers. I am also a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I specialize in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and anxiety.
I look forward to working with you whether you are seeking Christian counseling or non-faith based counseling.
My counseling experience includes working with individuals who have experienced a variety of reasons for seeking help to include but not limited to trauma, grief/loss, substance abuse, self-worth/self-esteem issues, stress management, relationship challenges, symptom management, spiritual conflicts, effective/assertive communication, depression and anxiety. Additionally, I have facilitated support and counseling groups for the geriatric population and their adult caregivers. I am also a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I specialize in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and anxiety.
(804) 207-5721 View (804) 207-5721
Photo of Kelly Stilwell Saylor, MACC, LCMHC, LMFT, AAMFT-S, LPC
Kelly Stilwell Saylor
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACC, LCMHC, LMFT, AAMFT-S, LPC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I am uniquely trained as a Christian counselor.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor, licensed marriage and family therapist and co-founder of SureHope Counseling & Training Center. I have a master's degree in Christian counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. I specialize in counseling couples concerning dating, engagement and marital issues. I offer couple intensives and train other therapists and church staff in working with couples. I work with the challenges of anxiety, depression, and trauma. Counseling offered online for the states of NC, SC and FL!
I am uniquely trained as a Christian counselor.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor, licensed marriage and family therapist and co-founder of SureHope Counseling & Training Center. I have a master's degree in Christian counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. I specialize in counseling couples concerning dating, engagement and marital issues. I offer couple intensives and train other therapists and church staff in working with couples. I work with the challenges of anxiety, depression, and trauma. Counseling offered online for the states of NC, SC and FL!
(704) 469-4192 View (704) 469-4192
Photo of Laura Meeks, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Meeks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I believe I have a lot to offer based on my lived experience as a military spouse, mother, biracial woman, former educator, Christian with Jewish heritage, and of course solid skills from incredible trainings.
Hello! Mucho Gusto! I am the Director of Unite Counseling & Therapy. We have a team of diverse and very talented clinicians! We personalize therapy based on your unique needs and desires, and take pride in being great listeners, teaching effective skills for creating the changes you want, and really getting to the root of issues. I know what it’s like to be in counseling and work on the hard stuff – and more importantly how amazing progress feels. Our team offers virtual appointments during the daytime, evening, and weekend, and in some in person. We'd love to support your in your mental, emotional, and relational health journey.
I believe I have a lot to offer based on my lived experience as a military spouse, mother, biracial woman, former educator, Christian with Jewish heritage, and of course solid skills from incredible trainings.
Hello! Mucho Gusto! I am the Director of Unite Counseling & Therapy. We have a team of diverse and very talented clinicians! We personalize therapy based on your unique needs and desires, and take pride in being great listeners, teaching effective skills for creating the changes you want, and really getting to the root of issues. I know what it’s like to be in counseling and work on the hard stuff – and more importantly how amazing progress feels. Our team offers virtual appointments during the daytime, evening, and weekend, and in some in person. We'd love to support your in your mental, emotional, and relational health journey.
(678) 580-4405 View (678) 580-4405
Photo of Jonathan Michael Chamblee, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Michael Chamblee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Everyone has a story with ups and downs, twists and turns, hopes and disappointments. Being alive is about doing what you care about, in service of your values, while accepting and thriving through your story’s plot twists. I enjoy helping people make sense of their story and to set free their free will, so as to live in the freedom of your chosen values. In addition to my Masters in Social Work, I also have a Master of Arts in Theology. While I will honor every client’s personal/spiritual beliefs as valid and their own, clients that wish to include their Catholic/ Christian values will find the support they are looking for.
Everyone has a story with ups and downs, twists and turns, hopes and disappointments. Being alive is about doing what you care about, in service of your values, while accepting and thriving through your story’s plot twists. I enjoy helping people make sense of their story and to set free their free will, so as to live in the freedom of your chosen values. In addition to my Masters in Social Work, I also have a Master of Arts in Theology. While I will honor every client’s personal/spiritual beliefs as valid and their own, clients that wish to include their Catholic/ Christian values will find the support they are looking for.
(317) 204-8481 View (317) 204-8481
Photo of Theresa Brown, LMHC, Counselor
Theresa Brown
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
If you are looking for a Christian spiritual component, it is available upon request.
Do you want to make a change and are tired of the same old things in your life? Are you dealing with a life transition or low self-esteem? Do you want to know how to navigate new waters, build up your confidence, and care for yourself along the way? Do you want to reduce anxiety and worry to live a life of joy? You may want to get better sleep and not feel sad all the time. By acquiring coping skills and increasing self-esteem, you will live a happier life and better manage stress.
If you are looking for a Christian spiritual component, it is available upon request.
Do you want to make a change and are tired of the same old things in your life? Are you dealing with a life transition or low self-esteem? Do you want to know how to navigate new waters, build up your confidence, and care for yourself along the way? Do you want to reduce anxiety and worry to live a life of joy? You may want to get better sleep and not feel sad all the time. By acquiring coping skills and increasing self-esteem, you will live a happier life and better manage stress.
(813) 214-6870 View (813) 214-6870
Photo of Dr. Nelly Bonilla, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Nelly Bonilla
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual Christian psychologist ​​who, through a comprehensive approach, seeks to help you develop resilience and well-being so that you can achieve your life goals.
Are you wondering how past traumatic events are impacting your life? Would you like to heal from childhood trauma? Or, do you describe yourself as angry and resentful and want to manage your emotions more healthily? Or, do you need to feel understood and not judged? If any of these scenarios describe you, you need a safe space to fully express all aspects of what you are experiencing to find emotional well-being.
I am a bilingual Christian psychologist ​​who, through a comprehensive approach, seeks to help you develop resilience and well-being so that you can achieve your life goals.
Are you wondering how past traumatic events are impacting your life? Would you like to heal from childhood trauma? Or, do you describe yourself as angry and resentful and want to manage your emotions more healthily? Or, do you need to feel understood and not judged? If any of these scenarios describe you, you need a safe space to fully express all aspects of what you are experiencing to find emotional well-being.
(952) 592-8578 View (952) 592-8578
Photo of Ronald Bell - Florida Christian Counseling Services, LMHC, Counselor
Florida Christian Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33705
I provide Christian counseling to individuals seeking spiritual guidance, enrichment, and support as well.
Are you feeling discouraged, stuck, and hopeless in your life or marriage? Life's negative experiences are causing continued distress and preventing you from reaching your potential. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, anger issues, relationship challenges and major life changes? are your preteens or teens experiencing behavior problems in school, home setting, or continue to get in trouble with the law?
I provide Christian counseling to individuals seeking spiritual guidance, enrichment, and support as well.
Are you feeling discouraged, stuck, and hopeless in your life or marriage? Life's negative experiences are causing continued distress and preventing you from reaching your potential. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, anger issues, relationship challenges and major life changes? are your preteens or teens experiencing behavior problems in school, home setting, or continue to get in trouble with the law?
(727) 800-1708 View (727) 800-1708
Photo of Cassie Thomas, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Cassie Thomas
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
I specialize in counseling from a Christian perspective and prioritize providing a safe, judgement-free context for people from all backgrounds to address thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that can lead to real change.
Every single one of us go through seasons that are hard. Sometimes the best thing that we can do for ourselves and our families during these hard times, is to invest in our own emotional and mental health. In my counseling practice, I provide help for individuals who are dealing with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief, and difficulties with life transitions. I also enjoy working couples in premarital and marriage counseling. I genuinely believe that hope can be found in even the most difficult of situations.
I specialize in counseling from a Christian perspective and prioritize providing a safe, judgement-free context for people from all backgrounds to address thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that can lead to real change.
Every single one of us go through seasons that are hard. Sometimes the best thing that we can do for ourselves and our families during these hard times, is to invest in our own emotional and mental health. In my counseling practice, I provide help for individuals who are dealing with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief, and difficulties with life transitions. I also enjoy working couples in premarital and marriage counseling. I genuinely believe that hope can be found in even the most difficult of situations.
(727) 349-2178 View (727) 349-2178
Photo of Zulay Romero - Genesis Creative Counseling PLLC, ATR, LCMHC
Genesis Creative Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, ATR, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I take on a person-centered and existential approach and apply Christian-based techniques ONLY when requested.
For most of your life, you have felt different and misunderstood from those around you. Maybe your skin color, culture, hobbies, faith, etc. put you on the sidelines. You've taken on the "anxious, slow, or hyper" personality type because others described you this way. You have not felt “good enough” in all spaces and have difficulty feeling worthy. So, over time, you have learned to assimilate, blend in; but that has meant becoming someone that isn't you. It's as if you're playing a part in a play but were never given the script.
I take on a person-centered and existential approach and apply Christian-based techniques ONLY when requested.
For most of your life, you have felt different and misunderstood from those around you. Maybe your skin color, culture, hobbies, faith, etc. put you on the sidelines. You've taken on the "anxious, slow, or hyper" personality type because others described you this way. You have not felt “good enough” in all spaces and have difficulty feeling worthy. So, over time, you have learned to assimilate, blend in; but that has meant becoming someone that isn't you. It's as if you're playing a part in a play but were never given the script.
(727) 617-3651 View (727) 617-3651
Photo of Kelly Jackson - VIP Coaching & Consulting, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
VIP Coaching & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Our life coaches range in expertise from health and nutrition, life, sex therapy, relationships (marriage and couple), Christian counseling, Pastoral counseling, mentoring, and IFS (internal family systems).
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment? We at VIP Coaching and Consulting are here to partner with you through your life's journey of self-discovery, growth, and self-empowerment. Together, we can navigate through this period of reflection and uncertainty and create a plan for positive transformation and transition. We understand that, at times, many of us need compassionate support, guidance, and accountability in taking the next step; we are here for you and will create a personalized plan to meet your needs.
Our life coaches range in expertise from health and nutrition, life, sex therapy, relationships (marriage and couple), Christian counseling, Pastoral counseling, mentoring, and IFS (internal family systems).
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment? We at VIP Coaching and Consulting are here to partner with you through your life's journey of self-discovery, growth, and self-empowerment. Together, we can navigate through this period of reflection and uncertainty and create a plan for positive transformation and transition. We understand that, at times, many of us need compassionate support, guidance, and accountability in taking the next step; we are here for you and will create a personalized plan to meet your needs.
(727) 739-2182 View (727) 739-2182
Photo of Ebony Clayton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ebony Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Welcome to Arukah Christian Counseling! Ebony specializes in providing space for Christian women seeking a biblical approach to their mental health. Ebony focuses on the whole person and uses a variety of evidence-based practices to help her clients explore the relationship between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors - as well as the physical, spiritual, and mental/emotional connection.
Welcome to Arukah Christian Counseling! Ebony specializes in providing space for Christian women seeking a biblical approach to their mental health. Ebony focuses on the whole person and uses a variety of evidence-based practices to help her clients explore the relationship between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors - as well as the physical, spiritual, and mental/emotional connection.
(727) 605-4783 View (727) 605-4783
Photo of Chad Thompson, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chad Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33715  (Online Only)
I also offer Christian counseling for those desiring faith-based guidance.
Does life feel downright overwhelming sometimes? Does your anxiety make it difficult to move forward? Maybe you’ve been dealing with several difficult things at the same time. Or maybe you’re trying hard to cope with your stress, but it’s been a challenge, and you’re struggling to take care of yourself. Life can be so complex, and it inherently comes with unexpected challenges. As an experienced therapist, I support clients struggling with relationship anxiety, social anxiety, and low self-worth, My goal is to help you feel empowered to make significant changes. You don’t have to handle these stressful circumstances alone.
I also offer Christian counseling for those desiring faith-based guidance.
Does life feel downright overwhelming sometimes? Does your anxiety make it difficult to move forward? Maybe you’ve been dealing with several difficult things at the same time. Or maybe you’re trying hard to cope with your stress, but it’s been a challenge, and you’re struggling to take care of yourself. Life can be so complex, and it inherently comes with unexpected challenges. As an experienced therapist, I support clients struggling with relationship anxiety, social anxiety, and low self-worth, My goal is to help you feel empowered to make significant changes. You don’t have to handle these stressful circumstances alone.
(813) 694-8493 View (813) 694-8493
Photo of Kathleen Rodriquez, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Rodriquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710
Accepting new clients. Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed with life's demands of school, work, friends, activities, marriage, and/or parenting? Are you currently often feeling anxious and depressed about the future? Have you had suicidal thoughts? Often these feelings will not just "go away." In this unstable chaotic world you CAN still have emotional stability. We can work together to help you find the coping skills and boundaries to live the life you were made for. Go to my website Hopeinhomecounseling.com. I also counsel individuals on their journey of grief. I'm a Christian and use Biblical principals.
Accepting new clients. Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed with life's demands of school, work, friends, activities, marriage, and/or parenting? Are you currently often feeling anxious and depressed about the future? Have you had suicidal thoughts? Often these feelings will not just "go away." In this unstable chaotic world you CAN still have emotional stability. We can work together to help you find the coping skills and boundaries to live the life you were made for. Go to my website Hopeinhomecounseling.com. I also counsel individuals on their journey of grief. I'm a Christian and use Biblical principals.
(727) 475-2093 View (727) 475-2093
Photo of Jennifer L Schanzenbach, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer L Schanzenbach
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I am a Solution Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapist. Working with adults, teens, children, family, and couples. When welcomed I apply counsel from a Christian foundation. I can help you find healing and change where you may have thought there was no hope.
I am a Solution Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapist. Working with adults, teens, children, family, and couples. When welcomed I apply counsel from a Christian foundation. I can help you find healing and change where you may have thought there was no hope.
(727) 746-5102 View (727) 746-5102
Photo of Andrea J Thomas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea J Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33712  (Online Only)
Are you currently grappling with feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, or a persistent lack of motivation? Whether you find yourself struggling with emotions such as sadness, anger, irritability, or have turned to unhealthy coping strategies, today, you stand at the threshold of personal empowerment and inner peace. I am here to accompany you on your self-care and wellness journey, dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore and understand your emotions and behaviors.
Are you currently grappling with feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, or a persistent lack of motivation? Whether you find yourself struggling with emotions such as sadness, anger, irritability, or have turned to unhealthy coping strategies, today, you stand at the threshold of personal empowerment and inner peace. I am here to accompany you on your self-care and wellness journey, dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore and understand your emotions and behaviors.
(727) 761-6687 View (727) 761-6687
1
...

See more therapy options for Saint Petersburg

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.