Christian Therapists in Sevierville, TN

Photo of Heather Nicole Gerry, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Heather Nicole Gerry
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Sevierville, TN 37862
Heather Gerry has been trained and practiced in a variety of treatment modalities including DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), crisis counseling, self-harm, addiction, and Christian-Based Therapy.
Do you, your child or teen feel overly stressed, anxious, irritable, depressed, lonely, scared, misunderstood, unheard, guilty, or ashamed? Maybe you or your child are struggling with sleep, socializing, concentration, going to work or school, or painful memories coming up into mind or heart? Is it hard to connect or trust others? Does every day seem like a fight just to achieve everyday tasks? Now is the time to stand up and break the chains of suffering. You have the capability to feel relief, peace, joy, and stability with evidenced-based treatment from a therapist that is dedicated to walk you from suffering into freedom.
Heather Gerry has been trained and practiced in a variety of treatment modalities including DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), crisis counseling, self-harm, addiction, and Christian-Based Therapy.
Do you, your child or teen feel overly stressed, anxious, irritable, depressed, lonely, scared, misunderstood, unheard, guilty, or ashamed? Maybe you or your child are struggling with sleep, socializing, concentration, going to work or school, or painful memories coming up into mind or heart? Is it hard to connect or trust others? Does every day seem like a fight just to achieve everyday tasks? Now is the time to stand up and break the chains of suffering. You have the capability to feel relief, peace, joy, and stability with evidenced-based treatment from a therapist that is dedicated to walk you from suffering into freedom.
(865) 346-5246 View (865) 346-5246
Photo of Tiffany Hindman Atchley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Hindman Atchley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sevierville, TN 37862
There are times in all of our lives in which we find ourselves struggling. Sometimes it is hard to go through the struggle alone. I offer counseling from a Christian perspective while respecting the values and beliefs of every individual, couple, and family. Counseling can be beneficial for current issues, past hurts, and for those seeking growth in their lives.
There are times in all of our lives in which we find ourselves struggling. Sometimes it is hard to go through the struggle alone. I offer counseling from a Christian perspective while respecting the values and beliefs of every individual, couple, and family. Counseling can be beneficial for current issues, past hurts, and for those seeking growth in their lives.
(865) 622-4156 View (865) 622-4156
Photo of Jo P Ward, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo P Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Sevierville, TN 37862
As a Christian my goal is to help each person I see learn to cope with their issues and be as contented and useful as possible.
When you are hurting you need someone to talk to who will help you figure out what to do. There are always changes we can make to be less miserable. I particularly enjoy working with couples having marital problems, with teenagers, and with people dealing with grief and loss.
As a Christian my goal is to help each person I see learn to cope with their issues and be as contented and useful as possible.
When you are hurting you need someone to talk to who will help you figure out what to do. There are always changes we can make to be less miserable. I particularly enjoy working with couples having marital problems, with teenagers, and with people dealing with grief and loss.
(865) 518-2749 View (865) 518-2749
Photo of Clint White - New Horizons Counseling, DMin, LPCMHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Horizons Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Sevierville, TN 37864
For those who desire Christian counseling, I have been trained to offer Biblical guidance and faith-based support.
Are you struggling to live the life you want? Perhaps you are feeling sad, anxious, angry or frustrated with your current situation? If so, let me help! Through our work together, you can begin to lead a happier and healthier life. I strive to create a compassionate and safe environment in which clients feel free to be their authentic selves and where they feel supported and heard. As a retired Army chaplain, I have 20 years of pastoral counseling experience in working with couples, adults, and adolescents.
For those who desire Christian counseling, I have been trained to offer Biblical guidance and faith-based support.
Are you struggling to live the life you want? Perhaps you are feeling sad, anxious, angry or frustrated with your current situation? If so, let me help! Through our work together, you can begin to lead a happier and healthier life. I strive to create a compassionate and safe environment in which clients feel free to be their authentic selves and where they feel supported and heard. As a retired Army chaplain, I have 20 years of pastoral counseling experience in working with couples, adults, and adolescents.
(865) 351-2892 View (865) 351-2892
Photo of Debra Picarello, Pastoral Counselor
Debra Picarello
Pastoral Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sevierville, TN 37862  (Online Only)
I'm an Ordained Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor with Advanced Certification in Tempermant Therapy, through the National Christian Counselors Association, License #18208.
At New Mercies Counseling, I use a non-secular model called Temperament Therapy, which allows you to better understand your uniqueness. You will receive an expert clinical scientifically based temperament assessment, using the Arno Profile system to help direct Spirit led Biblical guidance. I bring over a decade of lay ministry alongside my training through National Christian Counselor's Association. It would be a joy and honor to help you explore healthy biblical solutions to the struggles you face on this journey called life.
I'm an Ordained Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor with Advanced Certification in Tempermant Therapy, through the National Christian Counselors Association, License #18208.
At New Mercies Counseling, I use a non-secular model called Temperament Therapy, which allows you to better understand your uniqueness. You will receive an expert clinical scientifically based temperament assessment, using the Arno Profile system to help direct Spirit led Biblical guidance. I bring over a decade of lay ministry alongside my training through National Christian Counselor's Association. It would be a joy and honor to help you explore healthy biblical solutions to the struggles you face on this journey called life.
(865) 401-6433 View (865) 401-6433
Photo of Vickie Starkey, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vickie Starkey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sevierville, TN 37876
Need to talk about the dark stuff, need a life changing experience? Safe places to talk are hard to find and even if you do, you're still afraid. Some people feel out of control, like you are spiraling out of control.Painful past experiences don't have to rise to trauma to haunt us, but there is trauma too. We have secret thoughts that discourage us and make us feel hopeless and alone. Relationships fail, sometimes you find yourself in a one sided relationship where you wear yourself out trying to survive but just can't. Using drugs, alcohol or food to cope is no longer working. I hear you, let's talk about the dark stuff and heal
Need to talk about the dark stuff, need a life changing experience? Safe places to talk are hard to find and even if you do, you're still afraid. Some people feel out of control, like you are spiraling out of control.Painful past experiences don't have to rise to trauma to haunt us, but there is trauma too. We have secret thoughts that discourage us and make us feel hopeless and alone. Relationships fail, sometimes you find yourself in a one sided relationship where you wear yourself out trying to survive but just can't. Using drugs, alcohol or food to cope is no longer working. I hear you, let's talk about the dark stuff and heal
(865) 205-0513 View (865) 205-0513
Photo of Jenee Justice Tate, PsyD, Psychologist
Jenee Justice Tate
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sevierville, TN 37862
There is no greater pain than watching your child struggle. You've read the blogs, asked your doctor, consulted with friends, but you feel no closer to understanding what is going on or how to help. You need answers and you need a roadmap to stop the suffering and get things back on track. I'm here to guide you through the darkness and uncover what your child needs to achieve their true potential. My unique approach involves identifying your child's strengths in addition to their areas of vulnerability so you know exactly what they need to thrive.
There is no greater pain than watching your child struggle. You've read the blogs, asked your doctor, consulted with friends, but you feel no closer to understanding what is going on or how to help. You need answers and you need a roadmap to stop the suffering and get things back on track. I'm here to guide you through the darkness and uncover what your child needs to achieve their true potential. My unique approach involves identifying your child's strengths in addition to their areas of vulnerability so you know exactly what they need to thrive.
(865) 737-2787 View (865) 737-2787
Photo of Emily Chadwick, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Chadwick
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Sevierville, TN 37864
Whatever situation you’re in or having a hard time letting go of, there is a way to get through it. While I do specialize in helping children and parents, I am passionate about all people. I use a wide variety of approaches to treat anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma (complex and single-event), behavioral issues in children and teens, parenting, and couples. I offer individual, couple, and family sessions. Send me an email if you have questions, I always respond as soon as possible! I am currently accepting new clients!
Whatever situation you’re in or having a hard time letting go of, there is a way to get through it. While I do specialize in helping children and parents, I am passionate about all people. I use a wide variety of approaches to treat anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma (complex and single-event), behavioral issues in children and teens, parenting, and couples. I offer individual, couple, and family sessions. Send me an email if you have questions, I always respond as soon as possible! I am currently accepting new clients!
(865) 345-5146 View (865) 345-5146
Photo of Stacey Guthrie, EdD, LPC, MHSP, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey Guthrie
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, MHSP, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Sevierville, TN 37862
My practice is for people who want to make a lifestyle change and will commit to personal healing and growth while facing life’s challenges. Life can be hard for Children, Adolescents, and Adults, and sometimes very difficult to handle. It helps having someone listen offering unconditional positive regard. Clients learn and practice communication and problem solving skills, conflict resolution, boundaries, and healthy life style choices. Counseling involves change and helps let go of self-defeating patterns. Goals may be set based upon the client’s needs. A variety of approaches may be used to best suit the individual.
My practice is for people who want to make a lifestyle change and will commit to personal healing and growth while facing life’s challenges. Life can be hard for Children, Adolescents, and Adults, and sometimes very difficult to handle. It helps having someone listen offering unconditional positive regard. Clients learn and practice communication and problem solving skills, conflict resolution, boundaries, and healthy life style choices. Counseling involves change and helps let go of self-defeating patterns. Goals may be set based upon the client’s needs. A variety of approaches may be used to best suit the individual.
(865) 344-2363 View (865) 344-2363
Photo of Kariss B Waite, MA, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Kariss B Waite
Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Sevierville, TN 37862
Not accepting new clients
I add a Christian perspective to therapy as appropriate to each client.
My ideal client is one who is tired of being miserable and desires change. They have a clear vision of how they want their life to be different, and they are ready to do the work to get themselves there. They could struggle with relationships, anxiety, depression, spiritual issues, past hurt, trauma, lying, or with just about anything. The most important thing is that they are tired of being where they are in life, and they are ready to make a change. My passion is to come alongside my clients and assist them in reaching their own goals.
I add a Christian perspective to therapy as appropriate to each client.
My ideal client is one who is tired of being miserable and desires change. They have a clear vision of how they want their life to be different, and they are ready to do the work to get themselves there. They could struggle with relationships, anxiety, depression, spiritual issues, past hurt, trauma, lying, or with just about anything. The most important thing is that they are tired of being where they are in life, and they are ready to make a change. My passion is to come alongside my clients and assist them in reaching their own goals.
(865) 745-0196 View (865) 745-0196

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Terri L White - White Diamond Counseling Consulting Coaching, LLC, LPC, CPCS
White Diamond Counseling Consulting Coaching, LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Gatlinburg, TN 37738  (Online Only)
As a Christian Minority Marriage Specialist I have assisted couples reconnect with providing them with practical tools to use during therapy and at home.
Are you and your partner tired of arguing and not getting problems resolved? Do you feel disconnected from your spouse? A few issues couples often struggle with are Communication, Conflict, Finance and Blending Families. We are in relationships because we enjoy the companionship, want to build a family together and want to experience love and intimacy.
As a Christian Minority Marriage Specialist I have assisted couples reconnect with providing them with practical tools to use during therapy and at home.
Are you and your partner tired of arguing and not getting problems resolved? Do you feel disconnected from your spouse? A few issues couples often struggle with are Communication, Conflict, Finance and Blending Families. We are in relationships because we enjoy the companionship, want to build a family together and want to experience love and intimacy.
(859) 203-1893 View (859) 203-1893
Photo of Amy Vranic, LPC, PLMFT, NCC, CFRC, CMCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Vranic
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PLMFT, NCC, CFRC, CMCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
I use a range of modalities in counseling, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy, and Christian Counseling.
I have experience working with adults, young children, couples, and families. I focus on a variety of areas, including anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, relationship issues, parenting, and more. For me, the main goal of counseling is for the client to discover what is important in their life as an individual and to focus on self-improvement.
I use a range of modalities in counseling, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy, and Christian Counseling.
I have experience working with adults, young children, couples, and families. I focus on a variety of areas, including anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, relationship issues, parenting, and more. For me, the main goal of counseling is for the client to discover what is important in their life as an individual and to focus on self-improvement.
(225) 425-3798 View (225) 425-3798
Photo of Christie C Eberhardt, PhD, BCPC, Pastoral Counselor
Christie C Eberhardt
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, BCPC
Verified Verified
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Life can be difficult and confusing. I am here to help you sort through the pain to find hope and healing for the days ahead. The hurt can be deep, going back to earliest memories or coming from present hardships. Counseling you is about establishing a safe place, a loving environment of grace. My tools come from my training and from 33 years of experience, but each person is exquisitely unique, so no therapeutic relationship is the same as any other. It is an honor and privilege to share deeply in your life and the lives of your family. At present, because of a recent move to another state, I am connecting only online or by cell.
Life can be difficult and confusing. I am here to help you sort through the pain to find hope and healing for the days ahead. The hurt can be deep, going back to earliest memories or coming from present hardships. Counseling you is about establishing a safe place, a loving environment of grace. My tools come from my training and from 33 years of experience, but each person is exquisitely unique, so no therapeutic relationship is the same as any other. It is an honor and privilege to share deeply in your life and the lives of your family. At present, because of a recent move to another state, I am connecting only online or by cell.
(828) 675-7227 View (828) 675-7227

Online Therapists

Photo of Susan Stirewalt, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Stirewalt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) in TN and National Certified Counselor (NCC). She specializes in treating individuals with anxiety, complex trauma, and managing stress and relationship issues. She earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the Townsend Institute, where she studied the Competence & Character Growth Model, integrating the latest in neuroscience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions with a foundation of Christian faith and Biblical principles.
Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) in TN and National Certified Counselor (NCC). She specializes in treating individuals with anxiety, complex trauma, and managing stress and relationship issues. She earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the Townsend Institute, where she studied the Competence & Character Growth Model, integrating the latest in neuroscience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions with a foundation of Christian faith and Biblical principles.
(865) 276-8921 View (865) 276-8921
Photo of Jessica Kahler, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Kahler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
I believe a person is the expert of their own experiences and I take a non-judgmental and person-centered approach to treatment and meet you where you are on your journey. With careful and respectful listening, sessions are structured in a way in which you feel respected and understood and are able to share your thoughts, feelings, and past experiences as we work together to reach your therapy goals. I help individuals with issues such as self-esteem, stress, anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, codependency, relationship issues & others. I can also integrate your Christian faith if this is something you find helpful in therapy.
I believe a person is the expert of their own experiences and I take a non-judgmental and person-centered approach to treatment and meet you where you are on your journey. With careful and respectful listening, sessions are structured in a way in which you feel respected and understood and are able to share your thoughts, feelings, and past experiences as we work together to reach your therapy goals. I help individuals with issues such as self-esteem, stress, anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, codependency, relationship issues & others. I can also integrate your Christian faith if this is something you find helpful in therapy.
(865) 518-8259 View (865) 518-8259
Photo of Sharon Britt, LPC, MHSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Britt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
If desired, Sharon also provides Christian Counseling.
Sharon is a Licensed Professional Counselor "“ Mental Health Service Provider, that demonstrates an unwavering commitment to helping others with 30 years of experience. She has served clients in a variety of community and mental health settings such as outpatient treatment and private practice. Sharon has enjoyed working with adolescents, adults, and families. She also has extensive experience within the foster care and adoption system. Sharon takes a holistic approach to helping others and specializes in supporting those who want to overcome anxiety, grief, substance abuse, depression, anger management, and trauma.
If desired, Sharon also provides Christian Counseling.
Sharon is a Licensed Professional Counselor "“ Mental Health Service Provider, that demonstrates an unwavering commitment to helping others with 30 years of experience. She has served clients in a variety of community and mental health settings such as outpatient treatment and private practice. Sharon has enjoyed working with adolescents, adults, and families. She also has extensive experience within the foster care and adoption system. Sharon takes a holistic approach to helping others and specializes in supporting those who want to overcome anxiety, grief, substance abuse, depression, anger management, and trauma.
(865) 509-9819 View (865) 509-9819
Photo of Carol Omos Crawley, MA, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Omos Crawley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farragut, TN 37934  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw on a variety of modalities including EMDR, DBT, Schema Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment Theory, The Gottman Method, Integrative Christian Counseling and mindfulness practices to create a customized treatment plan that is both effective and empowering.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
I draw on a variety of modalities including EMDR, DBT, Schema Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment Theory, The Gottman Method, Integrative Christian Counseling and mindfulness practices to create a customized treatment plan that is both effective and empowering.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
(865) 509-9254 View (865) 509-9254
Photo of Lydia Duong-Jones, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lydia Duong-Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, TN 37321
I am a Christian counselor-in-training, which means I see treatment as holistic.
Hey there! I am Lydia and I am a graduate student working towards my master's in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University. In the meantime, I am interning at The Transformation Center in Dayton, TN. I enjoy working with teenagers and young adults who deal with life transitions and mental health. Most of my clients work on emotional regulation, processing past issues, coping skills, and relational issues. However, I love working with anybody who wants to take charge of their life and their story. Right now, I am working with a wide range of demographics.
I am a Christian counselor-in-training, which means I see treatment as holistic.
Hey there! I am Lydia and I am a graduate student working towards my master's in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University. In the meantime, I am interning at The Transformation Center in Dayton, TN. I enjoy working with teenagers and young adults who deal with life transitions and mental health. Most of my clients work on emotional regulation, processing past issues, coping skills, and relational issues. However, I love working with anybody who wants to take charge of their life and their story. Right now, I am working with a wide range of demographics.
(423) 570-7300 View (423) 570-7300
Photo of Jaryn D Turnage, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaryn D Turnage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Athens, TN 37303  (Online Only)
I am providing online sessions only. Therapy can be intimidating for many people, but it’s my job to help you feel comfortable sharing your experiences. I enjoy working with young adults, parents, and particularly new moms. I believe it’s essential to provide a space that is filled with honesty, empathy, and kindness so that every client feels safe to express their needs. I am a Christian and believe that my faith helps me meet people exactly where they are and guide them toward healing and growth.
I am providing online sessions only. Therapy can be intimidating for many people, but it’s my job to help you feel comfortable sharing your experiences. I enjoy working with young adults, parents, and particularly new moms. I believe it’s essential to provide a space that is filled with honesty, empathy, and kindness so that every client feels safe to express their needs. I am a Christian and believe that my faith helps me meet people exactly where they are and guide them toward healing and growth.
(423) 427-4459 View (423) 427-4459
Photo of Leah Nowicki, MS, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Leah Nowicki
Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Incorporating Christian values and beliefs is my specialty, but this is NEVER to increase a client's fear, guilt, or shame! That isn't God's nature! And don't worry, I'll never tell you to "just pray more!" ;) I hope to encourage my clients through God's heart of deep love and hope, not through cliche (and hurtful!) church answers that only make pain worse!.
Young adults are my passion! With 14 years experience as a full time professional counselor, and an approach that is relaxed, genuine, and honest, I'm ready to help whenever you are! If you're looking for a counselor who genuinely cares, is relatively easy-going, and works with adult individuals, I'm your person. Christianity and working with young adults is my specialty, but I see adults of any age. You CAN find healing, and this is a safe place to start! Life transitions, changes, women's issues, grief, anxiety, past trauma, and uncertainty in life are all the areas I love to work with.
Incorporating Christian values and beliefs is my specialty, but this is NEVER to increase a client's fear, guilt, or shame! That isn't God's nature! And don't worry, I'll never tell you to "just pray more!" ;) I hope to encourage my clients through God's heart of deep love and hope, not through cliche (and hurtful!) church answers that only make pain worse!.
Young adults are my passion! With 14 years experience as a full time professional counselor, and an approach that is relaxed, genuine, and honest, I'm ready to help whenever you are! If you're looking for a counselor who genuinely cares, is relatively easy-going, and works with adult individuals, I'm your person. Christianity and working with young adults is my specialty, but I see adults of any age. You CAN find healing, and this is a safe place to start! Life transitions, changes, women's issues, grief, anxiety, past trauma, and uncertainty in life are all the areas I love to work with.
(423) 515-5361 View (423) 515-5361

See more therapy options for Sevierville

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.