Christian Therapists in Chapel Hill, NC
![Photo of Katie DuCharme, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce7155f6-8a14-4515-864d-4aa17a605bdd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Some seasons of life are too difficult to go through alone — we need someone not just to listen, but to truly hear us. I walk alongside my clients during these arduous times, whether it’s for a brief moment or a longer period. I consider it the highest honor to hear and hold my clients’ stories. I'm currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Christian Counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.
Some seasons of life are too difficult to go through alone — we need someone not just to listen, but to truly hear us. I walk alongside my clients during these arduous times, whether it’s for a brief moment or a longer period. I consider it the highest honor to hear and hold my clients’ stories. I'm currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Christian Counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.
![Photo of Kevin L Weber, MS, LCMHC, LMHC, LCAC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5cc4026-16b8-4ccd-8f66-219b9ce371b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer tailor made counseling services, including traditional & psychedelic therapy as well as coaching, to those experiencing life's difficulties. My compassionate and non-judgmental approach is predicated on offering helpful direction towards specific, realistic, client determined goals. I am very comfortable working with individuals or couples of all ages, veterans and business executives. My approaches based on individual client expectations and needs. Each approach is customized and personal. Phone and video and sessions are available for added convenience. I offer a Christian worldview approach upon request.
I offer tailor made counseling services, including traditional & psychedelic therapy as well as coaching, to those experiencing life's difficulties. My compassionate and non-judgmental approach is predicated on offering helpful direction towards specific, realistic, client determined goals. I am very comfortable working with individuals or couples of all ages, veterans and business executives. My approaches based on individual client expectations and needs. Each approach is customized and personal. Phone and video and sessions are available for added convenience. I offer a Christian worldview approach upon request.
![Photo of Alexis Arzuaga, MDiv, MA, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1b90065-29e1-4ba7-a469-35f2f59cde93/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis Arzuaga
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
My areas of clinical focus are veterans, first responders, trauma, substance use, grief/loss, Christian spirituality, and existential issues.
I entered the counseling profession to support individuals who are having difficulties facing life’s challenges. I have found that many people struggle because they have created unrealistic expectations about the support, relationships, and encouragement they need. I believe that as humanity becomes “busier,” life becomes more complicated, affecting relationships and how we see ourselves fitting in the world. Life is often full of difficult and complicated experiences that are difficult to overcome, especially without support. Ultimately, these difficulties distract us from pursuing what enriches our lives.
My areas of clinical focus are veterans, first responders, trauma, substance use, grief/loss, Christian spirituality, and existential issues.
I entered the counseling profession to support individuals who are having difficulties facing life’s challenges. I have found that many people struggle because they have created unrealistic expectations about the support, relationships, and encouragement they need. I believe that as humanity becomes “busier,” life becomes more complicated, affecting relationships and how we see ourselves fitting in the world. Life is often full of difficult and complicated experiences that are difficult to overcome, especially without support. Ultimately, these difficulties distract us from pursuing what enriches our lives.
![Photo of Marlana Elan Peterson Rogers, MPA, LCAS, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e26390d0-df34-47e1-9f35-50e7e6674eb8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marlana Elan Peterson Rogers
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MPA, LCAS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I identify as a Christian counselor, however I do not discuss religion in session unless the client is in agreement.
I am a person-centered therapist who uses the guide-collaborator approach to provide a safe space to empathetically build a therapeutic rapport with clients. My theoretical model of choice is CBT with elements of CPT, NET, and DBT. I meet my clients where they are in their stage of readiness for change. I find this is the optimum approach in being responsive to the individual's needs. This approach allows my techniques to be flexible and integrative. I incorporate psychoeducational components on symptom impact of diagnosis, the influence of negative schemas, porous boundaries, ineffective communication styles, and attachment styles.
I identify as a Christian counselor, however I do not discuss religion in session unless the client is in agreement.
I am a person-centered therapist who uses the guide-collaborator approach to provide a safe space to empathetically build a therapeutic rapport with clients. My theoretical model of choice is CBT with elements of CPT, NET, and DBT. I meet my clients where they are in their stage of readiness for change. I find this is the optimum approach in being responsive to the individual's needs. This approach allows my techniques to be flexible and integrative. I incorporate psychoeducational components on symptom impact of diagnosis, the influence of negative schemas, porous boundaries, ineffective communication styles, and attachment styles.
![Photo of Nicole Arnn, MA, LCMCHA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/455fae54-b05d-44bb-a095-5b9ee99a7106/2/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with many individuals. My specialty is sex therapy. I am passionate about helping those who have low sexual arousal disorder or who have erectile dysfunction disorder. I can provide Christian-focused counseling at the client's consent. I also enjoy helping individuals manage their anxiety as well as their obsessions and compulsions.
I enjoy working with many individuals. My specialty is sex therapy. I am passionate about helping those who have low sexual arousal disorder or who have erectile dysfunction disorder. I can provide Christian-focused counseling at the client's consent. I also enjoy helping individuals manage their anxiety as well as their obsessions and compulsions.
![Photo of Michael Raúl Brown, MS, PhD, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57a469d4-e087-420a-80da-3b190bec40f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Raúl Brown
Counselor, MS, PhD, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
Waitlist for new clients
Although I am especially equipped to help with Christian spiritual issues, all are welcome; your values/faith will be respected.
Sometimes we all can use a little help on life's journey--when things seem dark, when we feel like we are drowning in emotions, challenges, or thoughts, or when we just need someone to help with focus as we set a course toward achieving our goals. That is what therapy is all about! Therapy is not having someone with all the right answers tell you what to do or doing things to you; it is having a professional guide to draw out your goals and strengths, to breathe hope into difficult times, and to assist with perspective and skills. As Rumi said, "The wound is where the light enters you." Come, find hope, and refuel for your journey.
Although I am especially equipped to help with Christian spiritual issues, all are welcome; your values/faith will be respected.
Sometimes we all can use a little help on life's journey--when things seem dark, when we feel like we are drowning in emotions, challenges, or thoughts, or when we just need someone to help with focus as we set a course toward achieving our goals. That is what therapy is all about! Therapy is not having someone with all the right answers tell you what to do or doing things to you; it is having a professional guide to draw out your goals and strengths, to breathe hope into difficult times, and to assist with perspective and skills. As Rumi said, "The wound is where the light enters you." Come, find hope, and refuel for your journey.
![Photo of Robin H Exum-Calhoun, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0748556d-5dd1-4703-9994-d0c51d219e19/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe psychotherapy is a journey a client and therapist embark on together. My role is to help you move toward improved mental health and emotional functioning. We will use interactive self exploration to help you understand the obstacles that may presently be preventing you from achieving your goals. I will help you learn the skills needed to overcome these obstacles. I have effectively helped people cope with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, parenting challenges, and life transition concerns. I am a Christian and incorporate spiritual interventions when appropriate. I am ready to help you too.
I believe psychotherapy is a journey a client and therapist embark on together. My role is to help you move toward improved mental health and emotional functioning. We will use interactive self exploration to help you understand the obstacles that may presently be preventing you from achieving your goals. I will help you learn the skills needed to overcome these obstacles. I have effectively helped people cope with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, parenting challenges, and life transition concerns. I am a Christian and incorporate spiritual interventions when appropriate. I am ready to help you too.
![Photo of Lifecare Counseling And Coaching - LifeCare Counseling and Coaching, PC, LCMHCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, MD, PA, NPs](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ff3596b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
LifeCare Counseling and Coaching, PC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, MD, PA, NPs
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
They combine research-based psychology with a Christian perspective of human suffering, hope, and redemptive love.
At LifeCare Counseling & Coaching, we are passionate about serving others by integrating the best psychiatric and mental health practices as well as spiritual care for the soul. Our team of licensed practitioners provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families of all kinds. We are a multi-site practice located at the Raleigh/Cary border, Wake Forest, Brier Creek, Holly Springs, Chapel Hill, the Triad area and Wilmington. In addition, many of our providers offer online therapy and we have interns who offer counseling on a sliding scale.
They combine research-based psychology with a Christian perspective of human suffering, hope, and redemptive love.
At LifeCare Counseling & Coaching, we are passionate about serving others by integrating the best psychiatric and mental health practices as well as spiritual care for the soul. Our team of licensed practitioners provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families of all kinds. We are a multi-site practice located at the Raleigh/Cary border, Wake Forest, Brier Creek, Holly Springs, Chapel Hill, the Triad area and Wilmington. In addition, many of our providers offer online therapy and we have interns who offer counseling on a sliding scale.
![Photo of Dr. Audrina Jones Bunton, MA, LCMHCS, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49d4709e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Audrina Jones Bunton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Online Only)
In addition, I specialize in Christian Counseling.
Do you experience hopelessness, feeling that your circumstances will never get better? Do you feel sad and down, longing to experience joy and happiness? Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed, longing for the day to find emotional relief? Have you experienced a traumatic life event, and feel stuck, unable to move forward in your life? Born number seven of eight children, to parents committed to helping others, I knew that I too was called as a helper. A compassionate, empathetic Licensed Professional Counselor and Christian Counselor with over 20 years' experience, my desire is to provide you with hope, healing, and restoration.
In addition, I specialize in Christian Counseling.
Do you experience hopelessness, feeling that your circumstances will never get better? Do you feel sad and down, longing to experience joy and happiness? Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed, longing for the day to find emotional relief? Have you experienced a traumatic life event, and feel stuck, unable to move forward in your life? Born number seven of eight children, to parents committed to helping others, I knew that I too was called as a helper. A compassionate, empathetic Licensed Professional Counselor and Christian Counselor with over 20 years' experience, my desire is to provide you with hope, healing, and restoration.
![Photo of Dr. Catinia Farrington](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83c9687f-351b-4d7e-ad44-d7eb560ba076/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Christian Counselor, holistic practitioner, and life coach envisioning my ideal client involves understanding their multifaceted needs and aspirations. My ideal client seeks healing and growth not only on a cognitive and emotional level but also on a spiritual and physical level. They come to me with a desire to address not just the symptoms of their struggles, but the root causes, seeking deeper understanding and meaning in their journey towards wellness. Their goals may vary, from overcoming specific challenges such as anxiety or depression to achieving a sense of balance, purpose, and connection in their lives.
As a Christian Counselor, holistic practitioner, and life coach envisioning my ideal client involves understanding their multifaceted needs and aspirations. My ideal client seeks healing and growth not only on a cognitive and emotional level but also on a spiritual and physical level. They come to me with a desire to address not just the symptoms of their struggles, but the root causes, seeking deeper understanding and meaning in their journey towards wellness. Their goals may vary, from overcoming specific challenges such as anxiety or depression to achieving a sense of balance, purpose, and connection in their lives.
![Photo of Quintisha China, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4b52158-33ef-404f-bde2-916debca26df/2/320x400.jpeg)
CHRISTIAN COUNSELOR (Two different locations) We know how to ask the right questions! We know how to stretch! Stretching can feel uncomfortable but it conditions you to possess your victory to your expected end, promotes a new higher perspective, builds up development and hope, and brings a sense of wholeness. If you utilize your spiritual background or faith as one of your primary coping mechanism or lens towards your concerns in life, we are a great fit for you! Therapy style is direct, empathetic, and affirmative.
CHRISTIAN COUNSELOR (Two different locations) We know how to ask the right questions! We know how to stretch! Stretching can feel uncomfortable but it conditions you to possess your victory to your expected end, promotes a new higher perspective, builds up development and hope, and brings a sense of wholeness. If you utilize your spiritual background or faith as one of your primary coping mechanism or lens towards your concerns in life, we are a great fit for you! Therapy style is direct, empathetic, and affirmative.
15 Second Videos
Audrina Jones Bunton
Quintisha China
Present Therapy
Jacqueline Heiny/ Lake Mary Counseling LLC
Care Essentials, PLLC
Amber Younger
Aurora Nunez Dixon
John Baggerman
The Armstrong Center for Hope
Raelee Peirce
Julian Crespo
Heather Matthews Jones
Brittany Deann Schopler
NRG-Coaching, PLLC
Trevor Thompson
Joshua D Ramsey
Natalie Ma
Tailored Brain Health
Leon Matthews
Debbi Camacho-Huntoon
![Photo of Zulay Romero - Genesis Creative Counseling PLLC, ATR, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18b4664a-9164-47fd-8482-05b2a24bd485/2/320x400.png)
Genesis Creative Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, ATR, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Online Only)
I take on a person-centered and existential approach and apply Christian-based techniques ONLY when requested.
Virtual art therapy and counseling for North Carolina and Florida residents! 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.
Virtual art therapy and counseling for North Carolina and Florida residents! 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.
![Photo of Sylvia Ward Graves, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3f4e65a-5a63-44b2-ae15-e87d0743f2e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sylvia Ward Graves
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Online Only)
I approach counseling with the belief that I encounter every client in the middle of a story. Within these stories, individuals are influenced by their relational contexts and histories––therefore, what they have been through is worth exploring. At the same time, I believe all are active agents in their present and future––I seek to empower clients toward change while fostering awareness of what has shaped them. In the context of safety, individuals are able to begin embracing agency and taking new risks which might otherwise feel inaccessible or overwhelming. Through these new risks, freedom and growth is possible.
I approach counseling with the belief that I encounter every client in the middle of a story. Within these stories, individuals are influenced by their relational contexts and histories––therefore, what they have been through is worth exploring. At the same time, I believe all are active agents in their present and future––I seek to empower clients toward change while fostering awareness of what has shaped them. In the context of safety, individuals are able to begin embracing agency and taking new risks which might otherwise feel inaccessible or overwhelming. Through these new risks, freedom and growth is possible.
![Photo of Lorie Lowans-Wells, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f207684-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lorie Lowans-Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety or self-worth? Are you still grieving something you thought you were over? Do you need to reduce stress? Therapy is a wonderful place to reduce difficult feelings and improve self-care. Therapy is a safe place-no judgement- but honest, caring support and guidance.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety or self-worth? Are you still grieving something you thought you were over? Do you need to reduce stress? Therapy is a wonderful place to reduce difficult feelings and improve self-care. Therapy is a safe place-no judgement- but honest, caring support and guidance.
![Photo of Laura E Francis-Thorp, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a16c04-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you having difficulty with life circumstances, relationships, or your own emotions and reactions? Are some things tough to navigate with familiar ways of coping? Perhaps you're longing for a fresh perspective but needing space to sort out the subtle nuances. I offer a supportive listening environment that promotes safety, freedom of expression, compassion, and new possibilities. Together, we identify ways to recognize repeating patterns and reorient approaches. In this process, I seek to incorporate the mind-body-spirit connection, recognizing that each person is multifaceted, unique, wonderful, and full of potential.
Are you having difficulty with life circumstances, relationships, or your own emotions and reactions? Are some things tough to navigate with familiar ways of coping? Perhaps you're longing for a fresh perspective but needing space to sort out the subtle nuances. I offer a supportive listening environment that promotes safety, freedom of expression, compassion, and new possibilities. Together, we identify ways to recognize repeating patterns and reorient approaches. In this process, I seek to incorporate the mind-body-spirit connection, recognizing that each person is multifaceted, unique, wonderful, and full of potential.
![Photo of Deborah Ann King - Zoe Services, PLLC, MA, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46ad546d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Zoe Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Sometimes in life we need someone to come along side us and walk with us for a while on our journey. I would describe myself as a sojourner. I provide a positive, nonjudgmental environment to see individuals as they work on addressing challenges they are facing. I work with teens and adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, infertility, life transitions, grief and loss along with parenting related stressors. Some of my speciality areas include: Postpartum issues, maternal mental health and EMDR. I also provide help to other professionals to address secondary trauma, compassion fatigue and "burn out".
Sometimes in life we need someone to come along side us and walk with us for a while on our journey. I would describe myself as a sojourner. I provide a positive, nonjudgmental environment to see individuals as they work on addressing challenges they are facing. I work with teens and adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, infertility, life transitions, grief and loss along with parenting related stressors. Some of my speciality areas include: Postpartum issues, maternal mental health and EMDR. I also provide help to other professionals to address secondary trauma, compassion fatigue and "burn out".
![Photo of Meredith Milke, LCMHC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae6fd6aa-3012-4842-a901-ac1f72267b5c/1/320x400.jpeg)
New Clients - I will have some openings for individual clients in August, 2024. I am not taking any new couples at this time. - - - - I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor & Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving the Chapel Hill, Durham and surrounding areas. I have 20 years experience working with adolescents, adults and families. My work includes a bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach. We will explore your relationships, environment, recent life events and stressors to gain perspective of how you are affected emotionally, physically and spiritually.
New Clients - I will have some openings for individual clients in August, 2024. I am not taking any new couples at this time. - - - - I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor & Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving the Chapel Hill, Durham and surrounding areas. I have 20 years experience working with adolescents, adults and families. My work includes a bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach. We will explore your relationships, environment, recent life events and stressors to gain perspective of how you are affected emotionally, physically and spiritually.
![Photo of Briana Garcia, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6a0b190-9ca8-4218-84f8-75edfe6e458a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Briana Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Online Only)
I wholeheartedly believe that we are all worthy, capable, and deserving of a fulfilling, loving, and “joy-full” life. Regardless of our past mistakes or experiences, I believe that we all have inherent worth, unique capabilities, and worthwhile goals and aspirations. Life can often throw challenges our way that make us question our value, but through therapy, we can work together to navigate past challenges and build a life that reflects your personal values and goals.
I wholeheartedly believe that we are all worthy, capable, and deserving of a fulfilling, loving, and “joy-full” life. Regardless of our past mistakes or experiences, I believe that we all have inherent worth, unique capabilities, and worthwhile goals and aspirations. Life can often throw challenges our way that make us question our value, but through therapy, we can work together to navigate past challenges and build a life that reflects your personal values and goals.
![Photo of Anne Storelli, LCMHC, LMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44034026-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anne Storelli
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be challenging, and most of us need help at one time or another. I offer a safe place to process thoughts and feelings, a place to be heard and understood - an experience that is increasingly rare in our modern, fast paced lives. Taking time to explore your interior world can be a tremendous opportunity for growth in your own sense of well-being and in your relationships with others. I enjoy working with adults and children, couples and families, focusing on your personal challenges and empowering you to find a way to meet your goals.
Life can be challenging, and most of us need help at one time or another. I offer a safe place to process thoughts and feelings, a place to be heard and understood - an experience that is increasingly rare in our modern, fast paced lives. Taking time to explore your interior world can be a tremendous opportunity for growth in your own sense of well-being and in your relationships with others. I enjoy working with adults and children, couples and families, focusing on your personal challenges and empowering you to find a way to meet your goals.
![Photo of Mary Nashed, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0124007c-21a5-4f52-8748-54ba278199c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Nashed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
The task of finding the right therapist can be a daunting one. Opening up about your insecurities and challenges can be difficult. I provide a non-judgmental, genuine, and warm atmosphere which will put you at ease. My passion is helping people who are struggling with everyday problems around relationships, work, school and any type of stress or those that have more deep-rooted issues stemming from childhood or a traumatic event. I help people develop a stronger and content sense of self.
The task of finding the right therapist can be a daunting one. Opening up about your insecurities and challenges can be difficult. I provide a non-judgmental, genuine, and warm atmosphere which will put you at ease. My passion is helping people who are struggling with everyday problems around relationships, work, school and any type of stress or those that have more deep-rooted issues stemming from childhood or a traumatic event. I help people develop a stronger and content sense of self.
See more therapy options for Chapel Hill
Nearby Christian Therapists Searches for Chapel Hill
- Apex
- Burlington
- Cary
- Durham
- Graham
- Hillsborough
- Holly Springs
- Mebane
- Morrisville
- Pittsboro
- Raleigh
- Research Triangle
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.