Christian Therapists in Humble, TX

Photo of Allen Ray Glass, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allen Ray Glass
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77346  (Online Only)
I am first and foremost a Christian, then I am a counselor. It is the application of biblical principles that allow me to bring lasting results in the lives of my clients. I use a wide variety of theoretical approaches, techniques and activities depending on the needs of the client. Acting as a guide that comes along your side, my goal is to assist you in identifying and resolving conflicts that have lingered in your life. We will explore the events that have impacted you the most, but we will focus on your current circumstances and begin taking proactive steps for a better future.
I am first and foremost a Christian, then I am a counselor. It is the application of biblical principles that allow me to bring lasting results in the lives of my clients. I use a wide variety of theoretical approaches, techniques and activities depending on the needs of the client. Acting as a guide that comes along your side, my goal is to assist you in identifying and resolving conflicts that have lingered in your life. We will explore the events that have impacted you the most, but we will focus on your current circumstances and begin taking proactive steps for a better future.
(281) 843-1710 View (281) 843-1710
Photo of Brandon S. Williams, MA, NCC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandon S. Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77346  (Online Only)
With a foundation of Christian principles, I blend the belief that our perspective can guide our experience.
Everyone, including me, goes through tough seasons! From feelings of fear & sadness to an overall dissatisfaction with life, we’ve all been there. Whether you're a young person trying to overcome social stressors or prepping to transition to or from college or the workforce, our care and coaching can help you achieve success from the inside-out. In addition, I can also help the entire family navigate through teen years, and strengthen family bond. Lastly, I can help to bring couples closer than ever before. Couples gain skills that garner success from the dating & pre-marital stages to the "empty-nest” stage.
With a foundation of Christian principles, I blend the belief that our perspective can guide our experience.
Everyone, including me, goes through tough seasons! From feelings of fear & sadness to an overall dissatisfaction with life, we’ve all been there. Whether you're a young person trying to overcome social stressors or prepping to transition to or from college or the workforce, our care and coaching can help you achieve success from the inside-out. In addition, I can also help the entire family navigate through teen years, and strengthen family bond. Lastly, I can help to bring couples closer than ever before. Couples gain skills that garner success from the dating & pre-marital stages to the "empty-nest” stage.
(337) 435-9147 View (337) 435-9147
Photo of Vertina Jones, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Vertina Jones
LPC-Associate, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77338
This May, I graduated with a Master of Arts in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Houston Christian University. My aim is to remind you that life’s adversities are meant to promote character, knowledge, and resilience while highlighting divine presence. Who doesn’t enjoy character building?…. I have a background and helping diverse clients foster their capacities and gain coping mechanisms to help improve their daily lives and experiences. Together, we will develop an individualized treatment plan utilizing an array of psychotherapeutic modalities to assist you in accomplishing your therapy goals.
This May, I graduated with a Master of Arts in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Houston Christian University. My aim is to remind you that life’s adversities are meant to promote character, knowledge, and resilience while highlighting divine presence. Who doesn’t enjoy character building?…. I have a background and helping diverse clients foster their capacities and gain coping mechanisms to help improve their daily lives and experiences. Together, we will develop an individualized treatment plan utilizing an array of psychotherapeutic modalities to assist you in accomplishing your therapy goals.
(346) 746-6976 View (346) 746-6976
Photo of Lauren Nichols, LPC A
Lauren Nichols
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC A
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77346
Clients often come to me because they feel enslaved to their thoughts. Sometimes they find themselves spending 3-8 hours a day obsessing over fears such as losing loved ones, hurting friends, or acting on unwanted impulses. They want to learn how to be free from having to perform certain rituals or mentally track and replay experiences in order to "neutralize" or prevent some perceived threat. I can help you get there through the gold standard of treatment: CBT and ERP! Listening, caring, and advocating for others is my priority. I am a Christian and live to be an instrument of Jesus' mercy, no matter where you are in your faith.
Clients often come to me because they feel enslaved to their thoughts. Sometimes they find themselves spending 3-8 hours a day obsessing over fears such as losing loved ones, hurting friends, or acting on unwanted impulses. They want to learn how to be free from having to perform certain rituals or mentally track and replay experiences in order to "neutralize" or prevent some perceived threat. I can help you get there through the gold standard of treatment: CBT and ERP! Listening, caring, and advocating for others is my priority. I am a Christian and live to be an instrument of Jesus' mercy, no matter where you are in your faith.
(281) 552-8354 View (281) 552-8354
Photo of Crystal Baxter - Embracing Minds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Embracing Minds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77338
Crystal Baxter is a dedicated Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy student at Houston Christian University, and an intern under the guidance of Zamaria Venzant.
My preferred clientele consists of individuals, couples, and families willing to engage in introspection and embark on a journey of personal growth and healing. I seek clients committed to attaining their objectives and striving toward self-improvement.
Crystal Baxter is a dedicated Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy student at Houston Christian University, and an intern under the guidance of Zamaria Venzant.
My preferred clientele consists of individuals, couples, and families willing to engage in introspection and embark on a journey of personal growth and healing. I seek clients committed to attaining their objectives and striving toward self-improvement.
(281) 916-8889 View (281) 916-8889
Photo of Joycelyn Pollard Russell - Healing Hearts Counseling, MEd,  , LPC, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Healing Hearts Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, , LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77338
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Christian Counselor with a PhD in Divinity, and an Educator. I specialize in social and emotional maladjustments in children, adolescents, and adults. I have a heart for Pastors, their spouses, and children. There is a need in this day and time for Pastors to receive therapy, especially since they give so much of themselves while serving others.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Christian Counselor with a PhD in Divinity, and an Educator. I specialize in social and emotional maladjustments in children, adolescents, and adults. I have a heart for Pastors, their spouses, and children. There is a need in this day and time for Pastors to receive therapy, especially since they give so much of themselves while serving others.
(281) 801-8594 View (281) 801-8594
Photo of Shannon Mosher, NCC LPC, C-PD, CHT, CCTP, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Mosher
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC LPC, C-PD, CHT, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77325
Waitlist for new clients
Christian counseling is available upon request.
Do you have an overwhelming sense of anxiety or depression? Are you completely exhausted by your emotional pain and feel like a prisoner in your own mind? Together, we can find solutions to help you take action and start becoming the best version of yourself! I am a compassionate and caring counselor who has helped hundreds of people to redefine their lives and live more meaningful, joyous, and focused lives. People come to me when they’re struggling with panic, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, loneliness, abandonment, personality disorders, bipolar, trauma, stress, life direction, or healthy self-esteem.
Christian counseling is available upon request.
Do you have an overwhelming sense of anxiety or depression? Are you completely exhausted by your emotional pain and feel like a prisoner in your own mind? Together, we can find solutions to help you take action and start becoming the best version of yourself! I am a compassionate and caring counselor who has helped hundreds of people to redefine their lives and live more meaningful, joyous, and focused lives. People come to me when they’re struggling with panic, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, loneliness, abandonment, personality disorders, bipolar, trauma, stress, life direction, or healthy self-esteem.
(281) 645-5681 View (281) 645-5681
Photo of Roslynn L Pettigrew (Mobile), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roslynn L Pettigrew (Mobile)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77346
I specialize in these areas: Community Resource Linkage, Grief, Loss, Adjustment, Depression, Anxiety, Guilt, Self-Care, Self-Value, Behavioral/Personality Disorders, Personal Stress, and Spiritual/ Christian Counseling.
Mobile or Office Counseling Just for YOU! It’s Time to LIVE Life! No matter your past or present situation, you deserve to experience all your heart desires and all that Life has to offer. It’s often our life outlook and coping methods that determine our life satisfaction. I want to team up with you as you take control of your LIFE! I am a Native Houstonian and graduate of the University of Houston. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, now with 20 years combined experience of clinical and social services I believe in providing quality and ethical care. I have experience providing counseling individually, in group settings, via telephone, and in clients' homes!
I specialize in these areas: Community Resource Linkage, Grief, Loss, Adjustment, Depression, Anxiety, Guilt, Self-Care, Self-Value, Behavioral/Personality Disorders, Personal Stress, and Spiritual/ Christian Counseling.
Mobile or Office Counseling Just for YOU! It’s Time to LIVE Life! No matter your past or present situation, you deserve to experience all your heart desires and all that Life has to offer. It’s often our life outlook and coping methods that determine our life satisfaction. I want to team up with you as you take control of your LIFE! I am a Native Houstonian and graduate of the University of Houston. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, now with 20 years combined experience of clinical and social services I believe in providing quality and ethical care. I have experience providing counseling individually, in group settings, via telephone, and in clients' homes!
(346) 275-3910 View (346) 275-3910
Photo of Elizabeth Belcon, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Belcon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77338
I am a Certified Christian Counselor who specializes in working with couples experiencing marital issues and may be considering divorce or separation.
Are you currently in dark place in life? Wake up sad and hopeless? Experiencing the pain of a failed relationship, experienced infidelity, unable to communicate with your spouse, or is a victim of a traumatic experience? As an experienced therapist, I am here to help you through the challenges you are facing in your life. I ensure my clients feel comfortable as they walk through their difficulties by creating a safe and empathetic environment. As a Certified Christian Counselor, I believe through Christ complete healing is possible. He promises us that "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Ps. 147:3.
I am a Certified Christian Counselor who specializes in working with couples experiencing marital issues and may be considering divorce or separation.
Are you currently in dark place in life? Wake up sad and hopeless? Experiencing the pain of a failed relationship, experienced infidelity, unable to communicate with your spouse, or is a victim of a traumatic experience? As an experienced therapist, I am here to help you through the challenges you are facing in your life. I ensure my clients feel comfortable as they walk through their difficulties by creating a safe and empathetic environment. As a Certified Christian Counselor, I believe through Christ complete healing is possible. He promises us that "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Ps. 147:3.
(936) 372-6979 View (936) 372-6979
Photo of Judy White Jackson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Judy White Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77338
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Life Coach, Certified Christian Counselor, & Educator; specializing in trauma recovery; social & emotional maladjustments in children, adolescents, and adults. I am experienced in helping clients heal from: childhood abuse (all forms), abandonment issues, post-traumatic stress disorder, relationship recovery, anxiety, depression, grief, anger, career issues, fear of public speaking, the effects of low self-esteem, and alcoholism.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Life Coach, Certified Christian Counselor, & Educator; specializing in trauma recovery; social & emotional maladjustments in children, adolescents, and adults. I am experienced in helping clients heal from: childhood abuse (all forms), abandonment issues, post-traumatic stress disorder, relationship recovery, anxiety, depression, grief, anger, career issues, fear of public speaking, the effects of low self-esteem, and alcoholism.
(281) 672-8698 View (281) 672-8698
Photo of Whitney Graves, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Whitney Graves
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77396  (Online Only)
Hi there! I specialize in guiding overthinkers through the labyrinth of anxiety and trauma. My approach is rooted in a holistic understanding of mental wellness, where we address not just the symptoms but the whole person. I believe that true healing involves more than just talking about your challenges. Together, we'll blend therapeutic techniques tailored to your unique needs, integrating mindfulness, cognitive strategies, and body-centered practices.
Hi there! I specialize in guiding overthinkers through the labyrinth of anxiety and trauma. My approach is rooted in a holistic understanding of mental wellness, where we address not just the symptoms but the whole person. I believe that true healing involves more than just talking about your challenges. Together, we'll blend therapeutic techniques tailored to your unique needs, integrating mindfulness, cognitive strategies, and body-centered practices.
(346) 229-0286 View (346) 229-0286
Photo of Chondra A. Perdue - Renewing The Mind Counseling Services Tx, LLC , MS- LPC, LCPC, LCDC, NCC, MPA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renewing The Mind Counseling Services Tx, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS- LPC, LCPC, LCDC, NCC, MPA
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77338  (Online Only)
Greetings! I, Chondra A. Perdue, am accepting new clients in the states of both TEXAS and NEVADA. Life is a journey that sometimes lands in a space where you may need someone objective or unbiased but trained to help you process thoughts and feelings. I provide counseling services to promote balanced and healthier living.
Greetings! I, Chondra A. Perdue, am accepting new clients in the states of both TEXAS and NEVADA. Life is a journey that sometimes lands in a space where you may need someone objective or unbiased but trained to help you process thoughts and feelings. I provide counseling services to promote balanced and healthier living.
(281) 957-1270 View (281) 957-1270
Photo of Lisa Whitehead, LPC-S, LMFT, RPT, LCDC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Whitehead
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC-S, LMFT, RPT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77346
Experienced therapist currently accepting couples, individuals and teens battling with anxiety, low self-esteem, grief or abandonment as well as survivors of childhood sexual abuse. I provide a safe, judgement free space to help individuals, couples and families find hope and experience healing. I am a doctoral candidate working toward earning a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, specializing in advanced clinical skills and advocacy for marginalized clients and patients.
Experienced therapist currently accepting couples, individuals and teens battling with anxiety, low self-esteem, grief or abandonment as well as survivors of childhood sexual abuse. I provide a safe, judgement free space to help individuals, couples and families find hope and experience healing. I am a doctoral candidate working toward earning a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, specializing in advanced clinical skills and advocacy for marginalized clients and patients.
(832) 664-7994 View (832) 664-7994
Photo of Dr. Rosemary Muzorewa, PhD, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Rosemary Muzorewa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Humble, TX 77396
I’m so glad you took this first step of reaching out for support! Whether you want to navigate difficulties in your life, repair relationships, or build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional wellness - I am here to help! We’ll work together to move past obstacles so you can take steps to achieve your goals. I want the therapeutic process to feel helpful and worthwhile. I work with sincerity, compassion and nonjudgement, and will provide a nurturing environment where you can talk candidly about your concerns.
I’m so glad you took this first step of reaching out for support! Whether you want to navigate difficulties in your life, repair relationships, or build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional wellness - I am here to help! We’ll work together to move past obstacles so you can take steps to achieve your goals. I want the therapeutic process to feel helpful and worthwhile. I work with sincerity, compassion and nonjudgement, and will provide a nurturing environment where you can talk candidly about your concerns.
(281) 612-8934 View (281) 612-8934
Photo of Sherry F Burton - SFBCounselingservices, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
SFBCounselingservices
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77346
I have experience working with individual's and families dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, dual diagnosis, child and adolescent behavioral issues and health and lifestyle issues. I also provide parenting, anger management, decisions making skills and domestic violence recovery for victims group and individual therapy.
I have experience working with individual's and families dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, dual diagnosis, child and adolescent behavioral issues and health and lifestyle issues. I also provide parenting, anger management, decisions making skills and domestic violence recovery for victims group and individual therapy.
(832) 895-7796 View (832) 895-7796
Photo of Ticily Medley - New Day PSC - Dr T Medley, PhD, LMFT-S, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
New Day PSC - Dr T Medley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77396
NOTE: New Day will be (unavailable) on vacation May 28 - June 11. I’m a recovering perfectionist. And I thought I was doing pretty good with my journey, until I experienced an unexpected major stroke. That major life crisis was, ironically, a great opportunity to reassess what I was doing to take care of myself…physically and emotionally. As a high-achieving Black woman who was recovering from perfectionism, turned into a Black woman who is a stroke survivor, I’m passionate about helping other high-achieving women of color to pause, to breathe, and to assess what they are doing to take care of themselves…physically and emotionally.
NOTE: New Day will be (unavailable) on vacation May 28 - June 11. I’m a recovering perfectionist. And I thought I was doing pretty good with my journey, until I experienced an unexpected major stroke. That major life crisis was, ironically, a great opportunity to reassess what I was doing to take care of myself…physically and emotionally. As a high-achieving Black woman who was recovering from perfectionism, turned into a Black woman who is a stroke survivor, I’m passionate about helping other high-achieving women of color to pause, to breathe, and to assess what they are doing to take care of themselves…physically and emotionally.
(832) 261-7671 View (832) 261-7671
Photo of Sherri Fielder, MA, LPC, CART, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sherri Fielder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77396
Do you ever feel like you are constantly running on the hamster wheel of life? Life around you is happening and you feel stuck watching everyone and everything move past or around you like everyone is living their best life...except for you. If you think about it, the running wheel is actually an exercise device created to build strength. You just need to know how to harness the energy and work with your present life to build something better. In our society we look for the quick fix. Make it happen in a flash is not where reality lies, but allow me to help you on a journey to living life with more ease and clarity.
Do you ever feel like you are constantly running on the hamster wheel of life? Life around you is happening and you feel stuck watching everyone and everything move past or around you like everyone is living their best life...except for you. If you think about it, the running wheel is actually an exercise device created to build strength. You just need to know how to harness the energy and work with your present life to build something better. In our society we look for the quick fix. Make it happen in a flash is not where reality lies, but allow me to help you on a journey to living life with more ease and clarity.
(346) 707-3891 View (346) 707-3891
Photo of Heather Jewell, MS, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Jewell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77346
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) specializing in therapy for individuals 12+, couples, and families, as well as ADHD evaluations. My approach is rooted in the belief that you are the expert in your own life, and that understanding yourself better holds great power. I firmly believe that it is never too late to break free from unhelpful patterns and cultivate relationships that bring joy. Everyday I witness people transform and grow, regardless of how long they have felt stuck or what they have experienced in the past.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) specializing in therapy for individuals 12+, couples, and families, as well as ADHD evaluations. My approach is rooted in the belief that you are the expert in your own life, and that understanding yourself better holds great power. I firmly believe that it is never too late to break free from unhelpful patterns and cultivate relationships that bring joy. Everyday I witness people transform and grow, regardless of how long they have felt stuck or what they have experienced in the past.
(281) 784-3510 View (281) 784-3510
Photo of Laurina Sellu, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laurina Sellu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77346  (Online Only)
One of the terrible things about mental health related issues is the darkness that tries to silence your voice. It may feel like a hand tightening around you; you can’t breathe, you can’t speak, and if you do not loosen its grip and fight it off you, you may even lose your life to it. It does not want you to reach out for help. It wants you to suffer in silence because the more you try to fight it off alone, the more exhausted you will become. That is where I come in. If you have been silently suffering alone, be it depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief, let me help you. Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is accept help.
One of the terrible things about mental health related issues is the darkness that tries to silence your voice. It may feel like a hand tightening around you; you can’t breathe, you can’t speak, and if you do not loosen its grip and fight it off you, you may even lose your life to it. It does not want you to reach out for help. It wants you to suffer in silence because the more you try to fight it off alone, the more exhausted you will become. That is where I come in. If you have been silently suffering alone, be it depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief, let me help you. Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is accept help.
(361) 317-3451 View (361) 317-3451
Photo of Susana Deltoro (Hablo Español), MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susana Deltoro (Hablo Español)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Humble, TX 77346  (Online Only)
I am a Bilingual English/ Spanish Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas practicing as a Therapist. My practice is now fully remote. I work to provide clients with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives. If you ever have a question, please ask. I do not have all the answers, but I will help you find them. I've recently added Immigration evaluations to my services.
I am a Bilingual English/ Spanish Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas practicing as a Therapist. My practice is now fully remote. I work to provide clients with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives. If you ever have a question, please ask. I do not have all the answers, but I will help you find them. I've recently added Immigration evaluations to my services.
(346) 220-0910 View (346) 220-0910
1
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.