Christian Therapists in Cottage Grove, MN
![Photo of Rebecca J Meyer, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9b2b576-517e-4ef8-baa8-f88304256326/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca J Meyer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (Online Only)
Hi! I have been in the mental health field since 2004 and have worked both in private practice and with a variety of agencies. I specialize in working with clients who are seeking therapy with life transitions, anxiety, depression, cancer, and trauma. I believe that having a set of tools that will help you with your concerns today and for the future is important. I am a Christian and am happy to incorporate faith into our work as you desire.
Hi! I have been in the mental health field since 2004 and have worked both in private practice and with a variety of agencies. I specialize in working with clients who are seeking therapy with life transitions, anxiety, depression, cancer, and trauma. I believe that having a set of tools that will help you with your concerns today and for the future is important. I am a Christian and am happy to incorporate faith into our work as you desire.
![Photo of Jolene Kirchner, RN, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/750ecd15-1503-4f9e-90e5-b0420f9f78b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jolene Kirchner
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Christian (Bible based) counseling is available.
My primary focus is on relevant life issues with core content areas including: pre-marital, marriage, family (parenting/child rearing), life balance, self-care: spirit, mind, body health/wellness, spiritual growth and maturity, and addictions/chemical dependency. I have a specific passion for working with couples, families, women and young adults.
Christian (Bible based) counseling is available.
My primary focus is on relevant life issues with core content areas including: pre-marital, marriage, family (parenting/child rearing), life balance, self-care: spirit, mind, body health/wellness, spiritual growth and maturity, and addictions/chemical dependency. I have a specific passion for working with couples, families, women and young adults.
![Photo of Jenny Beall, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2fea74c-bed4-4a28-9926-803917955734/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer distinctly Christian counseling for those who desire to incorporate faith into their healing.
Do you feel stuck and unsure how to move forward? We all have the ability to change our situations or the way we handle them, we just need a little hope. I love coming alongside people who are struggling and helping them to see the light at the end of the tunnel. From coloring and play therapy to exploring the past, challenging beliefs, or sitting with you in your pain--I have a passion for hurting people. I'd love to walk with you through shame and conflict in your life and help you find meaning and hope.
I offer distinctly Christian counseling for those who desire to incorporate faith into their healing.
Do you feel stuck and unsure how to move forward? We all have the ability to change our situations or the way we handle them, we just need a little hope. I love coming alongside people who are struggling and helping them to see the light at the end of the tunnel. From coloring and play therapy to exploring the past, challenging beliefs, or sitting with you in your pain--I have a passion for hurting people. I'd love to walk with you through shame and conflict in your life and help you find meaning and hope.
![Photo of Bernie J Menge - Bernie Menge licensed for MFT & LPC supervision., MA, LMFT, ADHD-, CCSP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f8225f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bernie Menge licensed for MFT & LPC supervision.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
I have a vast amount of professional and personal experience working with: Children, Teens, Young Adults, Single Parents, and Blended Families. Struggling with: Feeling Lost, Abused, Depression, Anxiety, Attention Issues, Conflicts, Moodiness, Relationships, Anger, Isolating, Argumentative, Communication, Defiance, Connecting, Anger Issues, Family Unity, Shame, Guilt, Loss, Repeated Behaviors, and Low Self Esteem. Their goals surround: (Peace) (Unity) (Balance) (Contentment) (Happiness) (Being Understood) (Trauma Healing) and (Managed lives). Looking for answers and resolution bringing healing that promotes purpose and meaning.
I have a vast amount of professional and personal experience working with: Children, Teens, Young Adults, Single Parents, and Blended Families. Struggling with: Feeling Lost, Abused, Depression, Anxiety, Attention Issues, Conflicts, Moodiness, Relationships, Anger, Isolating, Argumentative, Communication, Defiance, Connecting, Anger Issues, Family Unity, Shame, Guilt, Loss, Repeated Behaviors, and Low Self Esteem. Their goals surround: (Peace) (Unity) (Balance) (Contentment) (Happiness) (Being Understood) (Trauma Healing) and (Managed lives). Looking for answers and resolution bringing healing that promotes purpose and meaning.
![Photo of Tenbit Etafa, Tenbit, Etafa, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb1ab4b2-5701-4a3b-817c-fe6f27d81ad0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tenbit Etafa
Licensed Professional Counselor, Tenbit, Etafa, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (Online Only)
I am committed to creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment where you can feel safe to share your thoughts and emotions. Together, we will work towards developing coping mechanisms and strategies that can help you manage your mental health needs and improve your overall well-being. In therapy, I utilize a combination of evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness techniques. These approaches are tailored to your individual needs and can help you gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as develop healthier patterns.
I am committed to creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment where you can feel safe to share your thoughts and emotions. Together, we will work towards developing coping mechanisms and strategies that can help you manage your mental health needs and improve your overall well-being. In therapy, I utilize a combination of evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness techniques. These approaches are tailored to your individual needs and can help you gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as develop healthier patterns.
![Photo of Kay Manahan, MA, LMFT, CFRC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4097d8b3-357b-457f-a67c-786cc6ae68f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kay Manahan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CFRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Do you struggle with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or relational issues? Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and frustrated by the cards you've been dealt? Do you question that your relationships and well-being could be better? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their lives, careers, and relationships. Ignoring or avoiding your needs can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I don't believe life should be that hard.
Do you struggle with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or relational issues? Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and frustrated by the cards you've been dealt? Do you question that your relationships and well-being could be better? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their lives, careers, and relationships. Ignoring or avoiding your needs can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I don't believe life should be that hard.
![Photo of Mikke Papes, MSW, LGSW, LADC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27a43927-89e4-4773-b9f9-c0a42504eded/2/320x400.png)
Mikke Papes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Immediate availability. You've carried the weight of your struggles alone for far too long. The mere thought of reaching out for help, expressing your needs, and acknowledging your worth as a person feels like an insurmountable hurdle! Anxiety and depression seem to have a firm grip, distorting your perspective. Navigating through emotions has become a labyrinth, and anger simmers beneath the surface. The pressures of life have left you seeking effective stress management strategies. Self-esteem feels elusive, and issues related to masculinity and femininity weigh heavily on your shoulders. Perfectionism has crushed self-acceptance.
Immediate availability. You've carried the weight of your struggles alone for far too long. The mere thought of reaching out for help, expressing your needs, and acknowledging your worth as a person feels like an insurmountable hurdle! Anxiety and depression seem to have a firm grip, distorting your perspective. Navigating through emotions has become a labyrinth, and anger simmers beneath the surface. The pressures of life have left you seeking effective stress management strategies. Self-esteem feels elusive, and issues related to masculinity and femininity weigh heavily on your shoulders. Perfectionism has crushed self-acceptance.
![Photo of Beth Saunders-, MA, LPCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73aa4cc4-9597-44ba-be29-92608771a990/1/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Saunders-
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Healing can take many forms in our lives and therapy is one of those places that can facilitate that process. Finding a therapist, you can trust to process some of the difficult moments in your life is foundational. As your counseling partner, I will create a safe place for you as you navigate the challenges you are facing and help you figure out what you want and need moving forward. I believe in healing and the resiliency of the human heart and soul. Out of our difficulties, something beautiful can emerge. Come as you are and we can go from there.
Healing can take many forms in our lives and therapy is one of those places that can facilitate that process. Finding a therapist, you can trust to process some of the difficult moments in your life is foundational. As your counseling partner, I will create a safe place for you as you navigate the challenges you are facing and help you figure out what you want and need moving forward. I believe in healing and the resiliency of the human heart and soul. Out of our difficulties, something beautiful can emerge. Come as you are and we can go from there.
![Photo of Kristen Brechler, MS, LAMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99dd2775-047d-4b75-91ae-36aa74ce7847/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Brechler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is a collaborative healing process where you can be your authentic self in a trusting, respectful environment. My priority is to build a safe, caring, validating space where you can be known and understood. It’s a privilege to build strong relationships and notice the positive effects that therapy can have on their lives. I use a systemic, collaborative, strengths-based therapeutic approach to help you through the challenges of life, connecting with your strengths to help learn new ways to live in wholeness.
My practice is a collaborative healing process where you can be your authentic self in a trusting, respectful environment. My priority is to build a safe, caring, validating space where you can be known and understood. It’s a privilege to build strong relationships and notice the positive effects that therapy can have on their lives. I use a systemic, collaborative, strengths-based therapeutic approach to help you through the challenges of life, connecting with your strengths to help learn new ways to live in wholeness.
![Photo of Bernie Menge - Life-360 Counseling, LMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c67c9e8b-e9ed-4f91-be50-8661923a1eba/1/320x400.png)
We are passionate about people. We provide an all around approach walking with our clients as they find their way through some of life's toughest challenges. Are endeavor is to bring the years of personal and professional experiences within the therapeutic relationships fostering connection and hope.
We are passionate about people. We provide an all around approach walking with our clients as they find their way through some of life's toughest challenges. Are endeavor is to bring the years of personal and professional experiences within the therapeutic relationships fostering connection and hope.
![Photo of Rachel Krieger, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d00af580-d212-4a77-834c-75370b21e41f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Krieger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, MN 55016 (Online Only)
I have range of therapeutic experiences from individual mental health to working with families in a variety of contexts. I enjoy working with young adults, moms, women, and people from all backgrounds. I have a laid back, nonjudgmental approach and know that people are doing the best that they can. I recognize the importance of finding a therapist who is a good fit and will work hard to develop a safe, supportive, respectful, and productive environment for all clients. I strive to meet clients where they are at and work together. I aim to help clients identify their strengths, develop coping skills, & live a healthier life.
I have range of therapeutic experiences from individual mental health to working with families in a variety of contexts. I enjoy working with young adults, moms, women, and people from all backgrounds. I have a laid back, nonjudgmental approach and know that people are doing the best that they can. I recognize the importance of finding a therapist who is a good fit and will work hard to develop a safe, supportive, respectful, and productive environment for all clients. I strive to meet clients where they are at and work together. I aim to help clients identify their strengths, develop coping skills, & live a healthier life.
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![Photo of Tabitha Soderstrom Minnesota Anxiety And Trauma Therapist, MS, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2eaeba4-6341-4ec8-b717-d9e2327716b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tabitha Soderstrom Minnesota Anxiety And Trauma Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Elmo, MN 55042 (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!
![Photo of Shelly Holt, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e72af569-e936-4653-9a42-cb0157a9b930/1/320x400.png)
Shelly Holt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Christian licensed clinical social worker who has a certification in trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy.
Are you struggling with day-to-day life due to the thoughts in your head and/or choices you've made? Do you currently have a diagnosis that is confusing? Would you like to understand yourself better? Are you willing to make small incremental changes to change or even enrich your experience? I am here to help you discover what patterns or how your responses to your life's experiences may be holding you back from living as you desire.
I am a Christian licensed clinical social worker who has a certification in trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy.
Are you struggling with day-to-day life due to the thoughts in your head and/or choices you've made? Do you currently have a diagnosis that is confusing? Would you like to understand yourself better? Are you willing to make small incremental changes to change or even enrich your experience? I am here to help you discover what patterns or how your responses to your life's experiences may be holding you back from living as you desire.
![Photo of Karen Heyer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf95aa6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a christian therapist trained in theophostic prayer and I enjoy helping others discover their spiritual path.
I understand that therapy doesn't have to be a life-long process but it can help significantly when you are going through difficult circumstances that create worry, anger or a feeling of being at a loss. Stress seems to be an indicator that issues need to be addressed. I am a therapist who believes that my clients have many of the answers to their problems, I am there to help them through the journey to uncover what the answers are.
I am a christian therapist trained in theophostic prayer and I enjoy helping others discover their spiritual path.
I understand that therapy doesn't have to be a life-long process but it can help significantly when you are going through difficult circumstances that create worry, anger or a feeling of being at a loss. Stress seems to be an indicator that issues need to be addressed. I am a therapist who believes that my clients have many of the answers to their problems, I am there to help them through the journey to uncover what the answers are.
![Photo of Joseph Lundsten, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11a3f6c5-7576-441a-b6b1-9d8d9d4b5941/1/320x400.png)
Joseph Lundsten
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55118
I have come to embrace an integrative approach with individuals and couples that uses psychodynamic therapies, emotionally focused therapy, somatic work, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and Christian spiritual integration.
Currently, I am working with adults and couples with varying concerns including: grief and loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD and trauma, addiction and substance use, sexual addiction and integrity, faith and spirituality, chronic health issues, OCD and scrupulosity, and relational and family issues.
I have come to embrace an integrative approach with individuals and couples that uses psychodynamic therapies, emotionally focused therapy, somatic work, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and Christian spiritual integration.
Currently, I am working with adults and couples with varying concerns including: grief and loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD and trauma, addiction and substance use, sexual addiction and integrity, faith and spirituality, chronic health issues, OCD and scrupulosity, and relational and family issues.
![Photo of Sherri K Conran, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5cd449c-ddd0-45d1-a4c3-74d62ea6b1bd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can bring some unexpected twists and turns, and it can be helpful to talk with someone to process, and heal from these events. I consider it an honor to hold space for clients, and provide a safe place for you to be heard, find healing, and to gain skills and tools to bring you more freedom, and peace . I work from a mind, body, spirit perspective and upon your request, I enjoy integrating Christian faith, and spiritual interventions into your care. I value bringing laughter, authenticity, and safety into our sessions. Please feel free to call me to schedule a free 30 minute consultation to answer any questions you may have.
Life can bring some unexpected twists and turns, and it can be helpful to talk with someone to process, and heal from these events. I consider it an honor to hold space for clients, and provide a safe place for you to be heard, find healing, and to gain skills and tools to bring you more freedom, and peace . I work from a mind, body, spirit perspective and upon your request, I enjoy integrating Christian faith, and spiritual interventions into your care. I value bringing laughter, authenticity, and safety into our sessions. Please feel free to call me to schedule a free 30 minute consultation to answer any questions you may have.
![Photo of Marlene Musu Nah - Champion Mental Health & Drug Addiction Services, MA, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f668217-a861-48d3-9bb8-d8db8d6650a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Champion Mental Health & Drug Addiction Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC
Verified Verified
West Saint Paul, MN 55118
I place an emphasis on meeting clients where they are by utilizing a person-centered therapeutic approach coupled with my Christian faith and values, and to collaborate to understand goals and challenges by integrating various theoretical approaches.
As a therapist, I vIew my role as partnering with clients to create acceptance and change, and to facilitate awareness and growth to achieve clients goals to live meaningful lives. Whether you are looking for support and encouragement to maximize strengths, or need assistance in dealing with a wide variety of psychological issues, effective therapy begins with the formation of a relationship.
I place an emphasis on meeting clients where they are by utilizing a person-centered therapeutic approach coupled with my Christian faith and values, and to collaborate to understand goals and challenges by integrating various theoretical approaches.
As a therapist, I vIew my role as partnering with clients to create acceptance and change, and to facilitate awareness and growth to achieve clients goals to live meaningful lives. Whether you are looking for support and encouragement to maximize strengths, or need assistance in dealing with a wide variety of psychological issues, effective therapy begins with the formation of a relationship.
![Photo of Marina Himmer, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0261d99d-a5ea-4541-879d-2d2097dd2b5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have inmediate openings again via Telehealth or in person at Christian Heart Counseling .
Life can be challenging when we experience adjustments, trials and loses, causing us to experience loneliness, conflicting emotions, anxiety, depression or simply feeling something is missing in our lives. Therapy can provide a way out by integrating a mind/body/spirit connection to help you return to wellness. It requires great courage taking the first step to reach out. I would be honored if you allow me to walk alongside to unlock your full potential. I strive to follow your lead and adapt to your personal style and needs and together, create a safe and nurturing environment. Hablo nativo Español al 100% y me encantaria servirte!
I have inmediate openings again via Telehealth or in person at Christian Heart Counseling .
Life can be challenging when we experience adjustments, trials and loses, causing us to experience loneliness, conflicting emotions, anxiety, depression or simply feeling something is missing in our lives. Therapy can provide a way out by integrating a mind/body/spirit connection to help you return to wellness. It requires great courage taking the first step to reach out. I would be honored if you allow me to walk alongside to unlock your full potential. I strive to follow your lead and adapt to your personal style and needs and together, create a safe and nurturing environment. Hablo nativo Español al 100% y me encantaria servirte!
![Photo of Chris Falade - New Concept Counseling Inc., DMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bd73b51-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
New Concept Counseling Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
I am a DMFT, LMFT and I have extensive experience supporting individuals, couples and families on their journey through events that influence how we are functioning in relationships and our community, including premarital counseling, divorce, attachment concerns and cultural issues regarding acculturation and assimilation. I work with a range of disorders and l have specialty in depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, chemical dependency, oppositional defiance/conduct and grief/loss. I work with children ages 7 and older, along with adolescents and adults.
I am a DMFT, LMFT and I have extensive experience supporting individuals, couples and families on their journey through events that influence how we are functioning in relationships and our community, including premarital counseling, divorce, attachment concerns and cultural issues regarding acculturation and assimilation. I work with a range of disorders and l have specialty in depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, chemical dependency, oppositional defiance/conduct and grief/loss. I work with children ages 7 and older, along with adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Dr. Rebecca Hern, PsyD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2fe80a11-7a61-4fa5-affd-93a173c9dcd0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do any of the following sound familiar? You feel anxious, irritable, or overwhelmed most days. You notice that no matter how successful you are, or how much you have achieved, you still struggle with feeling “not good enough.” You often don't know what you want or need, and sacrifice your own well-being to meet the needs of others. You want to find meaning and joy in life, but find that most days you are just trying to get by and survive. If you're looking for a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental space to do this work then let's talk.
Do any of the following sound familiar? You feel anxious, irritable, or overwhelmed most days. You notice that no matter how successful you are, or how much you have achieved, you still struggle with feeling “not good enough.” You often don't know what you want or need, and sacrifice your own well-being to meet the needs of others. You want to find meaning and joy in life, but find that most days you are just trying to get by and survive. If you're looking for a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental space to do this work then let's talk.
See more therapy options for Cottage Grove
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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.