Christian Therapists in Franklin, TN

Photo of Abby West, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby West
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
If desired, I also provide therapy from a faith-based perspective incorporating Christian faith with evidence-based practices.
It is truly a privilege to witness people experience growth, healing, and long lasting change. I find joy in creating a warm, collaborative environment for individuals who desire to process and grow through life’s challenges and transitions. It is my hope that the individuals I work with leave therapy feeling deeply understood yet gently challenged. I have experience working with people in various seasons of life, however, I primarily work with preteens, teens, young adults, and women working through issues related to anxiety, depression, loss, life transitions, self esteem issues, difficult relationships, and trauma.
If desired, I also provide therapy from a faith-based perspective incorporating Christian faith with evidence-based practices.
It is truly a privilege to witness people experience growth, healing, and long lasting change. I find joy in creating a warm, collaborative environment for individuals who desire to process and grow through life’s challenges and transitions. It is my hope that the individuals I work with leave therapy feeling deeply understood yet gently challenged. I have experience working with people in various seasons of life, however, I primarily work with preteens, teens, young adults, and women working through issues related to anxiety, depression, loss, life transitions, self esteem issues, difficult relationships, and trauma.
(629) 263-7974 View (629) 263-7974
Photo of Bracey Thomas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bracey Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
I will often combine these with scripture and Christian spiritual practices to address all areas of the self as we work together to look towards healing and freedom in your life.
Are you feeling stuck in life? Do you feel like you continue to struggle with the same issues time and time again? Do your relationships always seem to end the same way? Life can be turbulent, and we can often feel like we keep running into the same difficulties or relationship issues. My goal is to walk alongside you to help you gain a deeper awareness of self and step into a happier, more fulfilled self. I provide Christian therapy services for individuals, couples, and families of all ages.
I will often combine these with scripture and Christian spiritual practices to address all areas of the self as we work together to look towards healing and freedom in your life.
Are you feeling stuck in life? Do you feel like you continue to struggle with the same issues time and time again? Do your relationships always seem to end the same way? Life can be turbulent, and we can often feel like we keep running into the same difficulties or relationship issues. My goal is to walk alongside you to help you gain a deeper awareness of self and step into a happier, more fulfilled self. I provide Christian therapy services for individuals, couples, and families of all ages.
(270) 778-0390 View (270) 778-0390
Photo of Susan Sheidy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Sheidy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
Susan Sheidy, LMFT, is the Grace Counseling Services Clinical Director and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Christian Counseling from Liberty University and also received her Master of Arts graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty. She is licensed in Pennsylvania & Tennessee. The late poet Maya Angelou quoted, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you”. This quote holds a powerful message to those interested in a therapeutic relationship.
Susan Sheidy, LMFT, is the Grace Counseling Services Clinical Director and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Christian Counseling from Liberty University and also received her Master of Arts graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty. She is licensed in Pennsylvania & Tennessee. The late poet Maya Angelou quoted, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you”. This quote holds a powerful message to those interested in a therapeutic relationship.
(615) 455-3920 View (615) 455-3920
Photo of Holly Beth Barruso, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Beth Barruso
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
I specialize in Christian counseling with adolescents, adults, couples & families .
I am the founder, owner and supervising therapist of Saving Grace Counseling in Franklin, TN. I have a license in TN in Professional Counseling, as well as a retired license California as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. My graduate education was rooted in a family systems approach with a later focus on Christian Counseling. I have experience working with children ages 2 - 18, as well as adults of all ages, in a wide range of settings. As such, I am well prepared to work with the entire family system.
I specialize in Christian counseling with adolescents, adults, couples & families .
I am the founder, owner and supervising therapist of Saving Grace Counseling in Franklin, TN. I have a license in TN in Professional Counseling, as well as a retired license California as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. My graduate education was rooted in a family systems approach with a later focus on Christian Counseling. I have experience working with children ages 2 - 18, as well as adults of all ages, in a wide range of settings. As such, I am well prepared to work with the entire family system.
(615) 205-9289 View (615) 205-9289
Photo of Lucy Bordiuk, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lucy Bordiuk
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
One client I feel I can uniquely help is anyone who wants to incorporate their Christian faith into counseling.
Sometimes we just need a space to process the big things we're going through. And while we might have people who are willing to listen, we don't want all our time with them to be spent talking about those hard things. What's special about having a counselor is that you have complete freedom to come in and talk about whatever is most important on your heart or mind that week. And it's amazing to see the relief and change that can come from simply having a space to share those thoughts and feelings.
One client I feel I can uniquely help is anyone who wants to incorporate their Christian faith into counseling.
Sometimes we just need a space to process the big things we're going through. And while we might have people who are willing to listen, we don't want all our time with them to be spent talking about those hard things. What's special about having a counselor is that you have complete freedom to come in and talk about whatever is most important on your heart or mind that week. And it's amazing to see the relief and change that can come from simply having a space to share those thoughts and feelings.
(615) 492-1132 View (615) 492-1132
Photo of Jack Carmody, MDiv, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jack Carmody
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37069
I am accepting new clients for counseling! Is your marriage or relationship stuck? Feeling depressed? Anxious? I am a licensed therapist providing christian counseling services to couples and individuals. I offer in-person sessions in Nashville/Franklin, and video options for anyone in South Carolina, Florida, or Tennessee. I see teenagers and adults, and really enjoy working with men and veterans.
I am accepting new clients for counseling! Is your marriage or relationship stuck? Feeling depressed? Anxious? I am a licensed therapist providing christian counseling services to couples and individuals. I offer in-person sessions in Nashville/Franklin, and video options for anyone in South Carolina, Florida, or Tennessee. I see teenagers and adults, and really enjoy working with men and veterans.
(803) 598-1093 View (803) 598-1093
Photo of Mary Margaret Johnson, LMFT, LPC, MHSP, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Margaret Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, MHSP, CST
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
It isn't easy to ask for help. It’s easy to get discouraged in life, and in relationships. It’s hard to break patterns that keep us stuck and to move past the pain and anxieties we face. With an integrative approach to therapy, I help clients break destructive patterns, heal wounds, develop better coping strategies, improve relational skills, and gain richer understanding of themselves and others. The common challenges I work with include: sexual intimacy. codependency, anxiety, infidelity, loss, personality growth, trauma, family conflict, parenting, eating disorders, spiritual abuse and Christian spiritual direction.
It isn't easy to ask for help. It’s easy to get discouraged in life, and in relationships. It’s hard to break patterns that keep us stuck and to move past the pain and anxieties we face. With an integrative approach to therapy, I help clients break destructive patterns, heal wounds, develop better coping strategies, improve relational skills, and gain richer understanding of themselves and others. The common challenges I work with include: sexual intimacy. codependency, anxiety, infidelity, loss, personality growth, trauma, family conflict, parenting, eating disorders, spiritual abuse and Christian spiritual direction.
(615) 209-9278 View (615) 209-9278
Photo of James Weakley - Hope Renewed Counseling and EMDR Therapy, LPCMHSP, CCH, C-DBT, C-EMDR, LPCC-MN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope Renewed Counseling and EMDR Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, CCH, C-DBT, C-EMDR, LPCC-MN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064  (Online Only)
I practice from a distinctly Christian, non-judgmental worldview, combined with the best and latest research in trauma-informed care.
Do you feel like the pressures and problems of life are crushing in on you, causing you to wonder just how much longer you can hang on? Are life experiences causing lost sleep, chronic pain, and impairments in your everyday life? Do you feel isolated, like no one really understands what it's like to be you? Life can deal some pretty nasty blows, and can at times, knock us down, and can even make us wonder if there's hope, or a reason to go on. As a trauma survivor, I know how it feels to be overwhelmed, feeling isolated and defeated! I also know there is HOPE and life after trauma. There truly is hope!
I practice from a distinctly Christian, non-judgmental worldview, combined with the best and latest research in trauma-informed care.
Do you feel like the pressures and problems of life are crushing in on you, causing you to wonder just how much longer you can hang on? Are life experiences causing lost sleep, chronic pain, and impairments in your everyday life? Do you feel isolated, like no one really understands what it's like to be you? Life can deal some pretty nasty blows, and can at times, knock us down, and can even make us wonder if there's hope, or a reason to go on. As a trauma survivor, I know how it feels to be overwhelmed, feeling isolated and defeated! I also know there is HOPE and life after trauma. There truly is hope!
(731) 628-8201 View (731) 628-8201
Photo of Ryan H Daniel, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Ryan H Daniel
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37069
Therefore, I feel like I work well with those who have a Christian background or are struggling with spiritual issues.
I see a wide range of clients from many different backgrounds. I like to say that I work with "real" people who are struggling with "real" problems. Some of the areas I see on a regular basis include anxiety issues, marital/family problems, and college students. My approach to counseling is integrative and I tailor my sessions to the client and whatever they are struggling with. Often I take a cognitive behavioral approach, but also use other methods when I believe they will be effective.
Therefore, I feel like I work well with those who have a Christian background or are struggling with spiritual issues.
I see a wide range of clients from many different backgrounds. I like to say that I work with "real" people who are struggling with "real" problems. Some of the areas I see on a regular basis include anxiety issues, marital/family problems, and college students. My approach to counseling is integrative and I tailor my sessions to the client and whatever they are struggling with. Often I take a cognitive behavioral approach, but also use other methods when I believe they will be effective.
(615) 541-2222 View (615) 541-2222
Photo of Sheila L Taylor, LPC, MHSP, SP, C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sheila L Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, SP, C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064  (Online Only)
My experiences include experience in various settings including Crisis Response, Community Mental Health, Christian Counseling, Adoptions, DCS, School settings and Prison Counseling.
YOU CAN... reach your full potential, increase skills to navigate and cope with life stressors, address mental health and other challenges and establish a healthier, happier you. Are you struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss or life transition struggles? I can help. My experience includes working with clients of various cultures, races, religions, socio-economic statuses and sexual orientations. Beyond mental health therapy, I am experienced in adoptions counseling, premarital counseling, pastoral support, blended family counseling, prison reentry counseling as well as group counseling.
My experiences include experience in various settings including Crisis Response, Community Mental Health, Christian Counseling, Adoptions, DCS, School settings and Prison Counseling.
YOU CAN... reach your full potential, increase skills to navigate and cope with life stressors, address mental health and other challenges and establish a healthier, happier you. Are you struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss or life transition struggles? I can help. My experience includes working with clients of various cultures, races, religions, socio-economic statuses and sexual orientations. Beyond mental health therapy, I am experienced in adoptions counseling, premarital counseling, pastoral support, blended family counseling, prison reentry counseling as well as group counseling.
(615) 802-5289 View (615) 802-5289
Photo of Mary Ann Green, MA, LPCMHSP, RDN, LDN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Ann Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
Waitlist for new clients
We can offer a Christian approach if desired, and we provide a safe place to reconnect to your authentic self.
Life is a gift that brings many joyful opportunities AND it also brings times of pain, suffering and added pressure. Perhaps you've found it harder to enjoy the blessings of life lately because of a hard transition, a difficult relationship or a traumatic event. Perhaps you've found yourself using destructive habits to cope with the stress such as dysfunctional eating, excessive alcohol use, perfectionism or isolation. Perhaps you're very hard on yourself and have a very loud inner critic in your head, and part of the struggle is negative body image. And perhaps you also want support from a spiritual perspective.
We can offer a Christian approach if desired, and we provide a safe place to reconnect to your authentic self.
Life is a gift that brings many joyful opportunities AND it also brings times of pain, suffering and added pressure. Perhaps you've found it harder to enjoy the blessings of life lately because of a hard transition, a difficult relationship or a traumatic event. Perhaps you've found yourself using destructive habits to cope with the stress such as dysfunctional eating, excessive alcohol use, perfectionism or isolation. Perhaps you're very hard on yourself and have a very loud inner critic in your head, and part of the struggle is negative body image. And perhaps you also want support from a spiritual perspective.
(615) 471-7280 View (615) 471-7280
Photo of Kirk Henderson, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kirk Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Hello, I'm Kirk Henderson LPC-MHSP. I provide individual counseling for trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, divorce, separation, and for couples and individuals. If you are in need of help in navigating your next move in life, I would be honored to help you reach your goals. I also provide Christian counseling for those who prefer this approach. I accept Cigna/Evernorth and Aetna insurances.
Hello, I'm Kirk Henderson LPC-MHSP. I provide individual counseling for trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, divorce, separation, and for couples and individuals. If you are in need of help in navigating your next move in life, I would be honored to help you reach your goals. I also provide Christian counseling for those who prefer this approach. I accept Cigna/Evernorth and Aetna insurances.
(629) 205-3782 View (629) 205-3782
Photo of Kimberly N. Brown, JD, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly N. Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Are you longing for hope? ​ Do you feel stuck? ​ Is your heart hurting over a great loss? ​ Have the painful events of your past been impacting your present? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, it is my passion to give you, as my client, a safe place to share your heart and to give understanding and resources on how to bridge the gap with where you are and where you want to be. It is my aim to meet you where you are emotionally and spiritually and to guide you in the healing process. I believe our true identity and hope is found in Jesus Christ. As a Christian, I am able to integrate faith into your care if you so desire.
Are you longing for hope? ​ Do you feel stuck? ​ Is your heart hurting over a great loss? ​ Have the painful events of your past been impacting your present? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, it is my passion to give you, as my client, a safe place to share your heart and to give understanding and resources on how to bridge the gap with where you are and where you want to be. It is my aim to meet you where you are emotionally and spiritually and to guide you in the healing process. I believe our true identity and hope is found in Jesus Christ. As a Christian, I am able to integrate faith into your care if you so desire.
(629) 263-5565 View (629) 263-5565
Photo of Jessie Whitfield, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessie Whitfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067  (Online Only)
As a Christian Mama to three kiddos five and under, and an officer's wife, I have a unique lived experience handling life's challenges.
Immediate Availability For AETNA Clients. I believe that relationships are the foundation of our functioning. Relationships give us a multitude of places that can be fraught with difficulties, opportunities for conflict, and certainly come with a frequent and sometimes intense ebb and flow of emotions. Each of these relationships continue to help us as we learn and grow, becoming ever more insightful and healthy people. Whether you need a supportive and listening ear, a fresh perspective, or someone to help you learn and implement new skills, I’m here to help.
As a Christian Mama to three kiddos five and under, and an officer's wife, I have a unique lived experience handling life's challenges.
Immediate Availability For AETNA Clients. I believe that relationships are the foundation of our functioning. Relationships give us a multitude of places that can be fraught with difficulties, opportunities for conflict, and certainly come with a frequent and sometimes intense ebb and flow of emotions. Each of these relationships continue to help us as we learn and grow, becoming ever more insightful and healthy people. Whether you need a supportive and listening ear, a fresh perspective, or someone to help you learn and implement new skills, I’m here to help.
(901) 554-4183 View (901) 554-4183
Photo of Justin Forgette, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justin Forgette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067  (Online Only)
Hey there! I am a Christian Licensed Professional Counselor based in Tennessee, with over 15 years of experience, primarily in an Intensive Outpatient Program. As a husband and father, I have dedicated my career to supporting adolescents and adults facing challenges such as addictions, depression, and anxiety. I find great fulfillment in helping individuals navigate these issues through counseling. Additionally, I provide supervision to pre-licensed counselors in Tennessee, fostering the next generation of professionals in our field.
Hey there! I am a Christian Licensed Professional Counselor based in Tennessee, with over 15 years of experience, primarily in an Intensive Outpatient Program. As a husband and father, I have dedicated my career to supporting adolescents and adults facing challenges such as addictions, depression, and anxiety. I find great fulfillment in helping individuals navigate these issues through counseling. Additionally, I provide supervision to pre-licensed counselors in Tennessee, fostering the next generation of professionals in our field.
(629) 348-3481 View (629) 348-3481
Photo of Holly Barruso - Saving Grace Counseling, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Saving Grace Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Saving Grace Counseling is a Christian group practice that merges traditional therapeutic approaches with biblical counseling to offer clients a deeper spiritual healing. We have a passion for helping clients find a deeper connection with the Lord, and thus access a peace that passes all understanding, no matter your life circumstances. We have a team of Master's level therapists and Licensed Professional Counselors, who work with a wide range of clients and presenting issues. We have experience and training with children age 3 to 18, as well as individual adults, couples, families, and groups.
Saving Grace Counseling is a Christian group practice that merges traditional therapeutic approaches with biblical counseling to offer clients a deeper spiritual healing. We have a passion for helping clients find a deeper connection with the Lord, and thus access a peace that passes all understanding, no matter your life circumstances. We have a team of Master's level therapists and Licensed Professional Counselors, who work with a wide range of clients and presenting issues. We have experience and training with children age 3 to 18, as well as individual adults, couples, families, and groups.
(629) 290-1023 View (629) 290-1023
Photo of Anita H Pringle, LPC-MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anita H Pringle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
With more than 30 years of experience in the ministry I am open and trained to integrate Christian faith and beliefs in therapy if a client desires that perspective.
My passion is to journey with individuals who struggle in life - whether life-long or due to a recent situation. I work with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, sex addiction, faith issues, addiction and other mental health issues. My goal is to journey toward health and wholeness in one's life.
With more than 30 years of experience in the ministry I am open and trained to integrate Christian faith and beliefs in therapy if a client desires that perspective.
My passion is to journey with individuals who struggle in life - whether life-long or due to a recent situation. I work with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, sex addiction, faith issues, addiction and other mental health issues. My goal is to journey toward health and wholeness in one's life.
(615) 206-3783 View (615) 206-3783
Photo of Wendell Aaron Kelley - Aaron Kelley, LPC, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aaron Kelley, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I am often asked about whether I provide Christian counseling.
The most rewarding therapy sessions occur with clients who are motivated to make progress towards the goals they set. I strongly believe that the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client is of upmost importance to the client meeting their goals. I strive to build a trusting, supportive, and safe relationship with each of my clients. I believe everyone has their own unique story to tell. I enjoy hearing that story and helping people overcome the issues that can surface over a lifetime. I see adults and adolescents in my therapy practice as well as the occasional couple.
I am often asked about whether I provide Christian counseling.
The most rewarding therapy sessions occur with clients who are motivated to make progress towards the goals they set. I strongly believe that the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client is of upmost importance to the client meeting their goals. I strive to build a trusting, supportive, and safe relationship with each of my clients. I believe everyone has their own unique story to tell. I enjoy hearing that story and helping people overcome the issues that can surface over a lifetime. I see adults and adolescents in my therapy practice as well as the occasional couple.
(615) 206-4013 View (615) 206-4013
Photo of Michael Walsh Gannon - TalkDr Christian Counseling , PhD , LCADC , BCPCC , Drug & Alcohol Counselor
TalkDr Christian Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD , LCADC , BCPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
TalkDr Christian Counseling believes in the ability you have to heal.
Dr. Michael Walsh Gannon, PhD, LCADC and the staff of TalkDr Christian Counseling, specialize in treating the root causes of whatever contributes to keeping you stuck. In essence, we assist the natural healing process of getting you "unstuck" once you achieve freedom from your pain. TalkDr Christian Counseling uses empathic and biblically based counseling to achieve results.
TalkDr Christian Counseling believes in the ability you have to heal.
Dr. Michael Walsh Gannon, PhD, LCADC and the staff of TalkDr Christian Counseling, specialize in treating the root causes of whatever contributes to keeping you stuck. In essence, we assist the natural healing process of getting you "unstuck" once you achieve freedom from your pain. TalkDr Christian Counseling uses empathic and biblically based counseling to achieve results.
(615) 640-4665 View (615) 640-4665
Photo of Angela Landry - Restoration Counseling Center, LMFT, LPC, MA, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Restoration Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, MA, CST
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Restoration Counseling Center was founded by three Christian Counselors in Franklin, Tennessee, who share a vision for providing healing, grace, and professionalism to those experiencing brokenness in their relationship with self, others, and God. Our counselors have all been trained through nationally accredited counseling programs emphasizing Christian integration. Therapists at Restoration Counseling Center are passionate about helping others attain their goals and consider it a privilege to walk alongside others in healing. We have therapists accepting new clients for immediate openings.
Restoration Counseling Center was founded by three Christian Counselors in Franklin, Tennessee, who share a vision for providing healing, grace, and professionalism to those experiencing brokenness in their relationship with self, others, and God. Our counselors have all been trained through nationally accredited counseling programs emphasizing Christian integration. Therapists at Restoration Counseling Center are passionate about helping others attain their goals and consider it a privilege to walk alongside others in healing. We have therapists accepting new clients for immediate openings.
(615) 656-0432 View (615) 656-0432
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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.