Christian Therapists in Athens, TX
![Photo of Zeb Lyons, MS, LPC-A, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c75c6015-59f3-4405-a9ed-dd54b8a57017/2/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone has that moment where the pain is too much. I love giving people the space they need to explore what is causing the hurt, so that we can work together and find solutions. Sometimes that space or need is the schedule and the cost. I intentionally keep my office hours open for evening and occasional weekend sessions and my costs are designed to help those in East Texas that may not have insurance or high incomes.
Everyone has that moment where the pain is too much. I love giving people the space they need to explore what is causing the hurt, so that we can work together and find solutions. Sometimes that space or need is the schedule and the cost. I intentionally keep my office hours open for evening and occasional weekend sessions and my costs are designed to help those in East Texas that may not have insurance or high incomes.
![Photo of Summer Allan Wilson, LCSW-S, C-TFCBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4166c62e-bbb1-4a8b-a26e-622b092bf151/1/320x400.jpeg)
Summer Allan Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, C-TFCBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, TX 75751
Thank you for taking time to read my profile. I know you are busy and need solutions fast. I have 31 years post graduate clinical experience in psychotherapy. My training and experience gives me an advantage when working with complex family dynamics such as divorce, custody and other traumas. I am accepting court ordered Child Custody Evaluations. I am comfortable giving expert testimony and being called as a witness when the situation presents itself. My ideal client is motivated, honest, and ready for relief. My humor- infused style of intervention tends to make the change process more bearable.
Thank you for taking time to read my profile. I know you are busy and need solutions fast. I have 31 years post graduate clinical experience in psychotherapy. My training and experience gives me an advantage when working with complex family dynamics such as divorce, custody and other traumas. I am accepting court ordered Child Custody Evaluations. I am comfortable giving expert testimony and being called as a witness when the situation presents itself. My ideal client is motivated, honest, and ready for relief. My humor- infused style of intervention tends to make the change process more bearable.
![Photo of Diane M Gard, PhD, BFK, NFK, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/491f837c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
![Photo of Sarah A Lowery, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d27866f-ee00-4b06-9081-f543419e1e89/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah A Lowery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, TX 75751
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I received a Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I received a Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis.
![Photo of Allison Cooper, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53969d8c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, TX 75751
In my practice I enjoy working with adolescents and adults on a variety of different situations and challenges. I have a special interest in helping clients who are experiencing anxiety, excessive worry, OCD and phobias. Treatment areas include: Anxiety Disorders (Social anxiety, Separation Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety), Phobias, Depression, Parenting Support, Grief Counseling, Adjustments and transitions, Stress Management, Conflict Resolution. I enjoy working with adolescents, teens and adults in a variety of different therapeutic areas. I strive to create a comfortable and safe atmosphere for clients.
In my practice I enjoy working with adolescents and adults on a variety of different situations and challenges. I have a special interest in helping clients who are experiencing anxiety, excessive worry, OCD and phobias. Treatment areas include: Anxiety Disorders (Social anxiety, Separation Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety), Phobias, Depression, Parenting Support, Grief Counseling, Adjustments and transitions, Stress Management, Conflict Resolution. I enjoy working with adolescents, teens and adults in a variety of different therapeutic areas. I strive to create a comfortable and safe atmosphere for clients.
![Photo of Larry Dale Brisendine, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f39cdf0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Larry Dale Brisendine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, TX 75751
Not accepting new clients
Attending a session with a counselor for the first time can be daunting. Anxiety abounds with the fear or hope of improving one's emotional life. We will focus first on building the relationship together in a non-judging, empathetic and caring manner that eases that anxiety. Many of us know that we are in need of relationship building with those we interact with, in our family, workplace, social setting, romantic interests and within marriage. We will work together to repair and practice connecting and communication skills needed to facilitate safe rewarding relationship habits.
Attending a session with a counselor for the first time can be daunting. Anxiety abounds with the fear or hope of improving one's emotional life. We will focus first on building the relationship together in a non-judging, empathetic and caring manner that eases that anxiety. Many of us know that we are in need of relationship building with those we interact with, in our family, workplace, social setting, romantic interests and within marriage. We will work together to repair and practice connecting and communication skills needed to facilitate safe rewarding relationship habits.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Ashley Ward, MS, LPC, EMDR, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9252cf44-23b4-49d8-8f6a-dd1917ef2484/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer counseling on a wide range of issues facing people today, and Christian counseling is also available upon request.
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! "I am not what happened to me. I am who I choose to become." Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and overwhelm can take us to a dark place. But we don't have to stay there. Life and relationships can be hard. But there is hope. As an experienced and compassionate therapist, I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families to help overcome trauma, alleviate anxiety and depression, build positive relationships and improve their lives. If needed, we can help connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
I offer counseling on a wide range of issues facing people today, and Christian counseling is also available upon request.
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! "I am not what happened to me. I am who I choose to become." Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and overwhelm can take us to a dark place. But we don't have to stay there. Life and relationships can be hard. But there is hope. As an experienced and compassionate therapist, I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families to help overcome trauma, alleviate anxiety and depression, build positive relationships and improve their lives. If needed, we can help connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
![Photo of Greg Stewart - Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting, PhD, MDiv, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2aa7d53-d33c-4f8f-9181-6fceee45544a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MDiv, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75032
I live in Rockwall, TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. Hearts can become strong, marriages can be healed and become euphoric, and our families can become strong, powerful, and beautiful. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available.
I live in Rockwall, TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. Hearts can become strong, marriages can be healed and become euphoric, and our families can become strong, powerful, and beautiful. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available.
![Photo of Ron Gravis, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, CSAT, CMAT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/369c3d54-443a-468f-9294-34f6d006c320/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ron Gravis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75223
I'm a committed Christian therapist/value God's unique place in our therapy room - yet I welcome members of all faiths and beliefs.
Online therapy is central in my practice. It is effective, convenient and greatly appreciated by my clients. Scheduling sessions works well with almost everyone's calendar. I focus on/value your needs first. As we check-in together, connection, trust and comfort create an honest space for you to share and grow. I approach therapy as a dynamic partnership - where proven technique and deep relational connection yield cognitive, emotional and spiritual integration. Honing technique to fit client needs + personalized connectivity yields clarity and growth. Moving through the process, we target and work toward this result...together.
I'm a committed Christian therapist/value God's unique place in our therapy room - yet I welcome members of all faiths and beliefs.
Online therapy is central in my practice. It is effective, convenient and greatly appreciated by my clients. Scheduling sessions works well with almost everyone's calendar. I focus on/value your needs first. As we check-in together, connection, trust and comfort create an honest space for you to share and grow. I approach therapy as a dynamic partnership - where proven technique and deep relational connection yield cognitive, emotional and spiritual integration. Honing technique to fit client needs + personalized connectivity yields clarity and growth. Moving through the process, we target and work toward this result...together.
![Photo of Sharon Lynn Good, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b8a5ef7-6ebd-4297-ac4c-fdeba2a3fa37/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Lynn Good
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joshua, TX 76058 (Online Only)
With over 25 years experience in professional counseling & 20 years as a counseling supervisor, I continue to love what I get to do. My hope for my clients is they have a positive experience in counseling, although I know that change is difficult, but worth the time and effort. If you are not expecting change or are willing to listen to my input, then I am probably not the counselor for you. I love hearing from clients, "you are different." I am certified in the diagnosis & treatment of Sexual Addiction from American Association of Christian Counseling as well as Grief, Trauma & Loss by the H. Norm Wright Institute.
With over 25 years experience in professional counseling & 20 years as a counseling supervisor, I continue to love what I get to do. My hope for my clients is they have a positive experience in counseling, although I know that change is difficult, but worth the time and effort. If you are not expecting change or are willing to listen to my input, then I am probably not the counselor for you. I love hearing from clients, "you are different." I am certified in the diagnosis & treatment of Sexual Addiction from American Association of Christian Counseling as well as Grief, Trauma & Loss by the H. Norm Wright Institute.
![Photo of Dr. Jamie Klemashevich, PhD, LPC, LMFT, ThM, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ae9eb45-9ab1-4025-a62e-d7c692ef756d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jamie Klemashevich
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT, ThM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Village, TX 75077 (Online Only)
We exist in the context of relationships- relationship to self and relationships with others. When those break down, we get internal and external conflict: anxiety, isolation, resentments, and more. In therapy, we get to the roots of the problems that are wearing away at you and your ability to relate both to yourself and others. I work from a place that honors your values and can integrate Christian faith into our counseling if you desire to work with someone who understands how faith forms the foundation of your relationships.
We exist in the context of relationships- relationship to self and relationships with others. When those break down, we get internal and external conflict: anxiety, isolation, resentments, and more. In therapy, we get to the roots of the problems that are wearing away at you and your ability to relate both to yourself and others. I work from a place that honors your values and can integrate Christian faith into our counseling if you desire to work with someone who understands how faith forms the foundation of your relationships.
![Photo of Anna Rangelova, MAMFC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d05d100-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Rangelova
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76107
My approach to life is based on the Christian worldview which focuses on a healthy and balanced relationship with God, self and others.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas. My experience includes working with children, adolescents and adults in both hospital and outpatient settings. My passion is to help people who struggle with identity issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss as well as difficulties associated with life transitions. I enjoy working with diverse populations and view each individual as unique and having the potential to heal and grow emotionally, socially and spiritually.
My approach to life is based on the Christian worldview which focuses on a healthy and balanced relationship with God, self and others.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas. My experience includes working with children, adolescents and adults in both hospital and outpatient settings. My passion is to help people who struggle with identity issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss as well as difficulties associated with life transitions. I enjoy working with diverse populations and view each individual as unique and having the potential to heal and grow emotionally, socially and spiritually.
![Photo of Melinda Moore Switzer - Beauty For Ashes Trauma Treatment and Therapy, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd5a946-3975-4096-93b1-4e818bdada78/6/320x400.jpeg)
Beauty For Ashes Trauma Treatment and Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75703
My name is Melinda Switzer, MA, LPC, NCC; Beauty for Ashes Trauma Treatment and Therapy would like to accompany you on your healing journey. “Book with me now by clicking on my website”. I am a non-judgmental, Christian therapist, everyone is welcome and deserves to be able to manage their lives. This can be accomplished by creating a life worth living for themselves and their families, without the shadow of trauma looming over them and affecting everything they do.
My name is Melinda Switzer, MA, LPC, NCC; Beauty for Ashes Trauma Treatment and Therapy would like to accompany you on your healing journey. “Book with me now by clicking on my website”. I am a non-judgmental, Christian therapist, everyone is welcome and deserves to be able to manage their lives. This can be accomplished by creating a life worth living for themselves and their families, without the shadow of trauma looming over them and affecting everything they do.
![Photo of Deanna Sims, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c550b4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
This is a Christian based self-help book for individual betrayed spouses, couples wishing to reconcile after an affair, and for mental health professionals desiring to help others with the trauma of infidelity.
I enjoy working with individuals with Bipolar Disorder to help them develop a treatment plan and to provide useful education about the disorder. Accurate information is critical in developing acceptance of the disorder and fighting stigma. Regarding infidelity, I work to help the patient(s) heal from the trauma and heartbreak of infidelity. Managing anger or obsessive thoughts, learning to be vulnerable again, and developing forgiveness are important goals for the betrayed spouse, whether separating or reconciling. Rebuilding trust, adhering to total honesty (the hallmark of healing), and being behaviorally accountable are tasks that I help the straying spouse develop.
This is a Christian based self-help book for individual betrayed spouses, couples wishing to reconcile after an affair, and for mental health professionals desiring to help others with the trauma of infidelity.
I enjoy working with individuals with Bipolar Disorder to help them develop a treatment plan and to provide useful education about the disorder. Accurate information is critical in developing acceptance of the disorder and fighting stigma. Regarding infidelity, I work to help the patient(s) heal from the trauma and heartbreak of infidelity. Managing anger or obsessive thoughts, learning to be vulnerable again, and developing forgiveness are important goals for the betrayed spouse, whether separating or reconciling. Rebuilding trust, adhering to total honesty (the hallmark of healing), and being behaviorally accountable are tasks that I help the straying spouse develop.
![Photo of Kristin Koulabouth, MEd, LPC, CSC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b25a05b-49b2-4c6a-a957-8062abdf2745/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Koulabouth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Richland Hills, TX 76180
Hi There! I'm Kristin and I have served as a Therapist, School Counselor, Child Life Specialist and Parent Educator. I enjoy meeting my clients right where they are in their life journey, exploring how they arrived to that place and then setting goals to achieve through our time together. Upon request, I also provide Christian-Based/Biblical Counseling.
Hi There! I'm Kristin and I have served as a Therapist, School Counselor, Child Life Specialist and Parent Educator. I enjoy meeting my clients right where they are in their life journey, exploring how they arrived to that place and then setting goals to achieve through our time together. Upon request, I also provide Christian-Based/Biblical Counseling.
![Photo of Shayla Rumsey, MA, LPC, RN, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a03d84ab-b871-496b-8048-dbbd1f6c554d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shayla Rumsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76110
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Christian University (Go Frogs!) and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.
Each woman is unique and is worthy and made for great things, but sometimes we loose our passion and forget who we are or what our purpose is. I want to help you find that again. I have a passion to help others become their best selves. I specialize in women only to help in areas such as: health & wellness, anxiety, depression, stress management, relationships, infidelity, parenting, communication, grief, and self-esteem. Let me help you heal, reach your goals, and become a stronger you! Don't give up, YOU were created on purpose for a purpose. Today is a new day, let's get started and meet Chief my therapy dog :-)
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Christian University (Go Frogs!) and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.
Each woman is unique and is worthy and made for great things, but sometimes we loose our passion and forget who we are or what our purpose is. I want to help you find that again. I have a passion to help others become their best selves. I specialize in women only to help in areas such as: health & wellness, anxiety, depression, stress management, relationships, infidelity, parenting, communication, grief, and self-esteem. Let me help you heal, reach your goals, and become a stronger you! Don't give up, YOU were created on purpose for a purpose. Today is a new day, let's get started and meet Chief my therapy dog :-)
![Photo of Oluremi Ladeji, LPC, MA, AACC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0964473a-5bae-428c-89b3-1261dfbb7ee9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Christian/Biblical Perspective.
Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage. It is an acknowledgment of the need for change and a willingness to embark on a transformative journey. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and a proud member of the American Christian Counseling Association (AACA), I am dedicated to helping clients navigate this journey. With extensive experience in anger management, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, divorce, and bipolar disorder, I provide the guidance and support necessary for healing and growth.
Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Christian/Biblical Perspective.
Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage. It is an acknowledgment of the need for change and a willingness to embark on a transformative journey. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and a proud member of the American Christian Counseling Association (AACA), I am dedicated to helping clients navigate this journey. With extensive experience in anger management, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, divorce, and bipolar disorder, I provide the guidance and support necessary for healing and growth.
![Photo of Paul D. Williams, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ee6fdd7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Upon request, I collaborate with clients to integrate a Christian faith perspective with clinical treatment interventions.
Do you feel bogged down with anger, anxiety, depression and/or overwhelming stress? Is your marriage in trouble? There is hope. We are not made to live life alone. Sometimes talking to someone with a caring, professional ear is what it takes to set in motion a lasting change for the better. Overcoming the obstacles that stop us and excelling to become a better person, spouse, parent and/or professional is my goal in partnering with you.
Upon request, I collaborate with clients to integrate a Christian faith perspective with clinical treatment interventions.
Do you feel bogged down with anger, anxiety, depression and/or overwhelming stress? Is your marriage in trouble? There is hope. We are not made to live life alone. Sometimes talking to someone with a caring, professional ear is what it takes to set in motion a lasting change for the better. Overcoming the obstacles that stop us and excelling to become a better person, spouse, parent and/or professional is my goal in partnering with you.
![Photo of Dr. Edna Chism Nicholas, LCSW-S, LCDC, CPC, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2296b621-8b3a-4486-80ab-e92505c1f6ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Edna Chism Nicholas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, CPC, PhD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76107
While working with families I utilize various approaches that include, marital/premarital, play therapy, family education, Christian counseling, sports performance and trauma informed care modalities .
Congratulations!! You have reached the next step on your new journey in life! We know it is difficult to come to counseling and even harder to choose a counselor that works for you. We are in such difficult times and our ACCC family wants to work with you!! Working with ACCC means that we believe that every individual has the key to successful outcomes within themselves. Ultimately we believe that you are the expert in your life. Our motto is "Authentically Inspiring Real Hope to Real People". This motto is representative of what restoration of hope can mean in healing everyday relationships among everyday people.
While working with families I utilize various approaches that include, marital/premarital, play therapy, family education, Christian counseling, sports performance and trauma informed care modalities .
Congratulations!! You have reached the next step on your new journey in life! We know it is difficult to come to counseling and even harder to choose a counselor that works for you. We are in such difficult times and our ACCC family wants to work with you!! Working with ACCC means that we believe that every individual has the key to successful outcomes within themselves. Ultimately we believe that you are the expert in your life. Our motto is "Authentically Inspiring Real Hope to Real People". This motto is representative of what restoration of hope can mean in healing everyday relationships among everyday people.
![Photo of Johnny Sanders, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdac125b-2969-413a-9027-02f47552ec58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Johnny Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254 (Online Only)
I specialize in Christian counseling.
As Christians we experience joy in our saving faith, however we face difficulties as well. I integrate my personal Christian faith into my counseling practice.
I specialize in Christian counseling.
As Christians we experience joy in our saving faith, however we face difficulties as well. I integrate my personal Christian faith into my counseling practice.
See more therapy options for Athens
Nearby Searches for Athens
See More TherapistsChristian 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.