Christian Therapists in Jackson County, MO

Photo of Jeremy Lotz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Jeremy Lotz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I'm an Individual & Family Therapist licensed since 2005. My background includes 12 years (2005-2017) working full-time in long-term inpatient programs for teens as a therapist & training director before I opened a private practice in 2017. My advanced training allows me to treat a broad scope of issues but I don't pretend to specialize in everything! Specializing only in: 1) Teens / Young adults, 2) Parenting & 3) Christian counseling. I have 20+ years of student ministry & ministry leadership experience. My career in residential care has trained me to treat the toughest challenges teens, young adults, & families can face.
I'm an Individual & Family Therapist licensed since 2005. My background includes 12 years (2005-2017) working full-time in long-term inpatient programs for teens as a therapist & training director before I opened a private practice in 2017. My advanced training allows me to treat a broad scope of issues but I don't pretend to specialize in everything! Specializing only in: 1) Teens / Young adults, 2) Parenting & 3) Christian counseling. I have 20+ years of student ministry & ministry leadership experience. My career in residential care has trained me to treat the toughest challenges teens, young adults, & families can face.
View
Photo of Jan Laws, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Jan Laws
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Springs, MO 64015
I also enjoy a Christian approach to therapy for those who request it.
Looking for help and support? You've come to the right provider. You may be dealing with self-doubt, complex relationships, or other overwhelming difficulties. Perhaps you struggle with anxiety, depression, or hopelessness and have thoughts like "I'm broken" "I'm not enough" or "I'm bad". You may have experienced something traumatic that reinforces these beliefs. You don't have to face these challenges alone. I'm here to help you find joy within yourself by building courage, compassion and confidence. As a therapist, I am committed to helping you thrive. New clients are accepted. Please contact me to learn more. Call 816-600-5580.
I also enjoy a Christian approach to therapy for those who request it.
Looking for help and support? You've come to the right provider. You may be dealing with self-doubt, complex relationships, or other overwhelming difficulties. Perhaps you struggle with anxiety, depression, or hopelessness and have thoughts like "I'm broken" "I'm not enough" or "I'm bad". You may have experienced something traumatic that reinforces these beliefs. You don't have to face these challenges alone. I'm here to help you find joy within yourself by building courage, compassion and confidence. As a therapist, I am committed to helping you thrive. New clients are accepted. Please contact me to learn more. Call 816-600-5580.
View
Photo of Krystal Sanchez, Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Krystal Sanchez
Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Blue Springs, MO 64015
I also have specific training in Christian Counseling for those looking to incorporate Christian beliefs with mental health.
I offer counseling services for all ages. Whether you're suffering from depression and anxiety or you've experienced something traumatic, I can help. I can help because I've been there myself. We all experience unwanted circumstances, emotions, and addictions that are difficult to handle alone. What has been harmed in relationship with others must be healed with relationship. That's where I come in. I will come alongside you or your child and help you where you're at. I will help you gain insight and provide you with the skills to help you with your problem.
I also have specific training in Christian Counseling for those looking to incorporate Christian beliefs with mental health.
I offer counseling services for all ages. Whether you're suffering from depression and anxiety or you've experienced something traumatic, I can help. I can help because I've been there myself. We all experience unwanted circumstances, emotions, and addictions that are difficult to handle alone. What has been harmed in relationship with others must be healed with relationship. That's where I come in. I will come alongside you or your child and help you where you're at. I will help you gain insight and provide you with the skills to help you with your problem.
(816) 434-0107 View (816) 434-0107
Photo of Emma Kirk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Emma Kirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I come from a Christian perspective, however, I allow you to decide if spirituality and faith will be included in your sessions.
Hello! My name is Emma Kirk. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Southwest Baptist University and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Evangel University. I specialize in working with teenagers and young adults with a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, and relational problems. I offer a collaborative approach that draws from several different counseling perspectives based on what your specific needs are. I aim to help you use your strengths and build skills that will help you on your journey of growth and positive change.
I come from a Christian perspective, however, I allow you to decide if spirituality and faith will be included in your sessions.
Hello! My name is Emma Kirk. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Southwest Baptist University and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Evangel University. I specialize in working with teenagers and young adults with a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, and relational problems. I offer a collaborative approach that draws from several different counseling perspectives based on what your specific needs are. I aim to help you use your strengths and build skills that will help you on your journey of growth and positive change.
(816) 239-3954 View (816) 239-3954
Photo of Kimberly A Martin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jackson County, MO
Kimberly A Martin
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64081
My Christian faith is a constant guide in my life, and I welcome including faith in counseling if this is important to you.
Your concerns are unique to you. I am here for you however life looks right now. I would be honored to work with you to resolve problems that burden you or your family. Counseling should provide a safe and non-judgmental space to tell your story and work through your challenges. I genuinely like to listen. As I hear you, we will walk your journey to wellness together.
My Christian faith is a constant guide in my life, and I welcome including faith in counseling if this is important to you.
Your concerns are unique to you. I am here for you however life looks right now. I would be honored to work with you to resolve problems that burden you or your family. Counseling should provide a safe and non-judgmental space to tell your story and work through your challenges. I genuinely like to listen. As I hear you, we will walk your journey to wellness together.
(816) 327-9966 View (816) 327-9966
Photo of Nikki Lavarias, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jackson County, MO
Nikki Lavarias
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
Populations that I work with are adolescents and young adults, from all races, ethnicities, genders, and cultural backgrounds. My specialties include meeting with clients who experience anxiety, sexual trauma, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, and persons that are considering other career paths or are facing life adjustments. As a graduate from Asbury Theological Seminary, I am also able to integrate spirituality and Christian faith into our sessions if a client desires that.
Populations that I work with are adolescents and young adults, from all races, ethnicities, genders, and cultural backgrounds. My specialties include meeting with clients who experience anxiety, sexual trauma, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, and persons that are considering other career paths or are facing life adjustments. As a graduate from Asbury Theological Seminary, I am also able to integrate spirituality and Christian faith into our sessions if a client desires that.
(816) 992-6019 View (816) 992-6019
Photo of Jamie E Skyta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Jamie E Skyta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64082
I am a Christian and for those who are interested in seeking counseling from a Christian perspective, that could be part of the process, but is not required.
You feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, you have a hard time living in the present, always looking back at what was missing, or looking forward to how things could be. You want to enjoy life, to be happy, and it is exhausting. Or maybe you don’t even know how you feel but you know it doesn’t feel good. You might know where these feelings started, a tough relationship, trauma, a difficult childhood. Or maybe the feelings seem to come from nowhere. You are surviving, but, it doesn't have to be so hard.
I am a Christian and for those who are interested in seeking counseling from a Christian perspective, that could be part of the process, but is not required.
You feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, you have a hard time living in the present, always looking back at what was missing, or looking forward to how things could be. You want to enjoy life, to be happy, and it is exhausting. Or maybe you don’t even know how you feel but you know it doesn’t feel good. You might know where these feelings started, a tough relationship, trauma, a difficult childhood. Or maybe the feelings seem to come from nowhere. You are surviving, but, it doesn't have to be so hard.
(682) 452-6499 View (682) 452-6499
Photo of Tamiika Vincent, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Tamiika Vincent
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC-S, LCPC, AACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
I am a Christian Based Clinician and utilize various treatment modalities but specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
**Currently accepting new virtual clients.** Everyone needs someone to talk to. Someone to help process feelings, emotions, experiences and events. This is normal. Life can be HARD and STRESSFUL. I can help you with that. I specialize in coaching and counseling those who have been struggling with everyday life and are trying to make a change for the better.
I am a Christian Based Clinician and utilize various treatment modalities but specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
**Currently accepting new virtual clients.** Everyone needs someone to talk to. Someone to help process feelings, emotions, experiences and events. This is normal. Life can be HARD and STRESSFUL. I can help you with that. I specialize in coaching and counseling those who have been struggling with everyday life and are trying to make a change for the better.
(913) 347-5244 View (913) 347-5244
Photo of Janice R Love, Pastoral Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Janice R Love
Pastoral Counselor, MS , DMin
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64101
I don’t know when it happened but as a Christian wife and mother I invested much of my energy into making sure my husband and children were successful. I played by the rules of what a “virtuous woman” should be and lost track of the hopes and aspirations I had for my life. I even came to the place where I wasn’t sure who I was or the reason for which I was created. Was it too much to ask to for the things I wanted? Peace of mind with being my authentic self, the space to discover and live out the purpose and destiny for my life, and to tap into God's power to make a difference in the lives of other women walking a similar journey.
I don’t know when it happened but as a Christian wife and mother I invested much of my energy into making sure my husband and children were successful. I played by the rules of what a “virtuous woman” should be and lost track of the hopes and aspirations I had for my life. I even came to the place where I wasn’t sure who I was or the reason for which I was created. Was it too much to ask to for the things I wanted? Peace of mind with being my authentic self, the space to discover and live out the purpose and destiny for my life, and to tap into God's power to make a difference in the lives of other women walking a similar journey.
(913) 354-8916 View (913) 354-8916
Photo of Ann Elizabeth Svensson, Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Ann Elizabeth Svensson
Counselor, LPC-T
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Hello! Thank you for visiting with me! Fostering “next steps” in all areas of life defines my approach to counseling. My experience with childhood loss, a pervasive family history of depression and anxiety, and a recent diagnosis of ADHD have created opportunities to learn and grow personally and professionally. A Christian foundation grounds my decisions personally and professionally. I believe God works powerfully through relationships and promises to guide us.
Hello! Thank you for visiting with me! Fostering “next steps” in all areas of life defines my approach to counseling. My experience with childhood loss, a pervasive family history of depression and anxiety, and a recent diagnosis of ADHD have created opportunities to learn and grow personally and professionally. A Christian foundation grounds my decisions personally and professionally. I believe God works powerfully through relationships and promises to guide us.
(816) 551-2467 View (816) 551-2467
Photo of Melissa R Vaughns-Guein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Melissa R Vaughns-Guein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, CGCS, CCTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Grandview, MO 64030
I am also a Licensed Minister working with families within the church who have dealt with family loss, divorce, empty nest as well as their daily Christian walk.
Over the last 20 years I have enjoyed meeting and working with people in their homes not only as a therapist but a parent educator, and advocate. It has been my experience that by meeting in the comfort of their own home people feel more encouraged to change when they can talk authentically with someone who actively listens to their concerns and issues utilizing reflective strategies. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Both Missouri. I am certified in trauma, anxiety, grief, and Child Parent Psychotherapy.
I am also a Licensed Minister working with families within the church who have dealt with family loss, divorce, empty nest as well as their daily Christian walk.
Over the last 20 years I have enjoyed meeting and working with people in their homes not only as a therapist but a parent educator, and advocate. It has been my experience that by meeting in the comfort of their own home people feel more encouraged to change when they can talk authentically with someone who actively listens to their concerns and issues utilizing reflective strategies. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Both Missouri. I am certified in trauma, anxiety, grief, and Child Parent Psychotherapy.
(816) 425-0649 View (816) 425-0649
Photo of The Forge Initiative, Inc. in Jackson County, MO
The Forge Initiative, Inc.
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
Our counselors strive to provide counseling to men that is biblically sound and applicable to all of life's unique challenges. In the midst of the questions, troubles, and problems of life, we are here to offer help, healing, and hope. Our team has advanced degrees and decades of experience in Christian counseling and desire to offer compassionate care and guidance to help resolve difficulties, comfort sorrow, ease pain, and provide guidance for making wise decisions. We also have years of experience working in banking, engineering, and in the non-profit world, giving us unique insight into issues men face.
Our counselors strive to provide counseling to men that is biblically sound and applicable to all of life's unique challenges. In the midst of the questions, troubles, and problems of life, we are here to offer help, healing, and hope. Our team has advanced degrees and decades of experience in Christian counseling and desire to offer compassionate care and guidance to help resolve difficulties, comfort sorrow, ease pain, and provide guidance for making wise decisions. We also have years of experience working in banking, engineering, and in the non-profit world, giving us unique insight into issues men face.
(913) 392-3147 View (913) 392-3147
Photo of Erin Bell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Erin Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
If desired, I also offer shame-free Christian counseling to grow deeper in knowledge and faith spiritually within a therapeutic lens.
I see a variety of clients in various life situations and complexities, and I view the space you share with me an honor and privilege. It’s a big step in committing to understanding what's happening for you and reaching out for help. I respect your desire for understanding yourself and the situation you're in, for a deeper level of self-reflection, and a desire for implementing change. You're already doing hard work right now searching for the right fit, and in valuing personal growth and investing in yourself by reaching out. I look forward to connecting with you. I am committed to walking alongside of you every step of the way!
If desired, I also offer shame-free Christian counseling to grow deeper in knowledge and faith spiritually within a therapeutic lens.
I see a variety of clients in various life situations and complexities, and I view the space you share with me an honor and privilege. It’s a big step in committing to understanding what's happening for you and reaching out for help. I respect your desire for understanding yourself and the situation you're in, for a deeper level of self-reflection, and a desire for implementing change. You're already doing hard work right now searching for the right fit, and in valuing personal growth and investing in yourself by reaching out. I look forward to connecting with you. I am committed to walking alongside of you every step of the way!
(816) 209-1522 View (816) 209-1522
Photo of Chantele Mercier Ferguson, Psychologist in Jackson County, MO
Chantele Mercier Ferguson
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
As a therapist, I focus on client-needs from both a Christian and evidence-based perspective.
As we journey through life, we can experience challenges that stifle our personal growth or block our connection with others. Sometimes, we feel ill-equipped, disappointed, alone, hurt, or afraid. But there is hope-- hope for understanding, peace, empowerment, and joy. Whether you would like to broaden your understanding of your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, or deepen your connection with others, there is hope and there is help. Together we can enhance self-awareness and other-awareness. We can work to understand and strengthen your ability to manage your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We can develop healthy problem-solving and life skills.
As a therapist, I focus on client-needs from both a Christian and evidence-based perspective.
As we journey through life, we can experience challenges that stifle our personal growth or block our connection with others. Sometimes, we feel ill-equipped, disappointed, alone, hurt, or afraid. But there is hope-- hope for understanding, peace, empowerment, and joy. Whether you would like to broaden your understanding of your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, or deepen your connection with others, there is hope and there is help. Together we can enhance self-awareness and other-awareness. We can work to understand and strengthen your ability to manage your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We can develop healthy problem-solving and life skills.
(816) 463-4646 x5 View (816) 463-4646 x5
Photo of Dr. Cary Corley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Dr. Cary Corley
Licensed Professional Counselor, DOC, LPC-S, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64064
At Lakewood Family Therapy our goal is to offer excellent therapy from beginning to end for all of our clients and their families. We are a dedicated group of professional Christian counselors, bringing healing to the family, and giving hope for the future. Dr. Corley offers professional counseling for marriages, families, and individuals. For more information about our practice or our counselors, or to set up a free 15 minute phone consult, please visit our website www.lwfamilytherapy.com .
At Lakewood Family Therapy our goal is to offer excellent therapy from beginning to end for all of our clients and their families. We are a dedicated group of professional Christian counselors, bringing healing to the family, and giving hope for the future. Dr. Corley offers professional counseling for marriages, families, and individuals. For more information about our practice or our counselors, or to set up a free 15 minute phone consult, please visit our website www.lwfamilytherapy.com .
(816) 207-2228 View (816) 207-2228
Photo of Stan Archie, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Stan Archie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC, SATP-C, ThD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
Stan Archie is a Christian centered supervisor and counselor whose primary focus is to use principles of the behavioral sciences to support individuals, couples, families, groups, and organizations in realizing their passion and potential according to their desired outcome.
As a therapist and supervisor, Stan works through an Attachment Theory lens. He values working with a treatment team, and utilizes a multidisciplinary approach, highly valuing each individual for his/her own uniqueness. He believes in a holistic approach to counseling through exploration of psychological, emotional, spiritual, and relational aspects of one's life. Therapy modalities that will be utilized in treatment include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Attachment Theory. He considers it a privilege to walk alongside individuals while through the healing process while reaching their goals.
Stan Archie is a Christian centered supervisor and counselor whose primary focus is to use principles of the behavioral sciences to support individuals, couples, families, groups, and organizations in realizing their passion and potential according to their desired outcome.
As a therapist and supervisor, Stan works through an Attachment Theory lens. He values working with a treatment team, and utilizes a multidisciplinary approach, highly valuing each individual for his/her own uniqueness. He believes in a holistic approach to counseling through exploration of psychological, emotional, spiritual, and relational aspects of one's life. Therapy modalities that will be utilized in treatment include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Attachment Theory. He considers it a privilege to walk alongside individuals while through the healing process while reaching their goals.
(913) 747-4132 View (913) 747-4132
Photo of Pamela S Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Pamela S Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64131  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I serve clients with a focus on results applied from both a Christian and clinical perspective.
Dr. Taylor, Counselor, Coach, Consultant, and owner of New Hope Counseling Center. I offer a non-pathologizing, collaborative, strengths-based approach to individuals, couples, families, and businesses in the form of therapy or consulting services. Areas of Interest: Relationship Issues - Couples/Families & Premarital, Adolescents, Loss/Grief,Transitions, Work-Life Balance, Spirituality Concerns, Depression, Anxiety, etc.
I serve clients with a focus on results applied from both a Christian and clinical perspective.
Dr. Taylor, Counselor, Coach, Consultant, and owner of New Hope Counseling Center. I offer a non-pathologizing, collaborative, strengths-based approach to individuals, couples, families, and businesses in the form of therapy or consulting services. Areas of Interest: Relationship Issues - Couples/Families & Premarital, Adolescents, Loss/Grief,Transitions, Work-Life Balance, Spirituality Concerns, Depression, Anxiety, etc.
(816) 340-6649 View (816) 340-6649
Photo of Tina B. Stone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Tina B. Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
I am a second-generation Christian family therapist who has been in practice since 1987, married for 34 years, 2 adult twin daughters, and now 2 sons (both daughters married). My overall philosophy is to assist clients in bringing balance to their lives by examining the emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of their lives. It is important to see the individual as a part of a system, as what may work for one person may not work for another due to current family dynamics and unresolved issues from their past.
I am a second-generation Christian family therapist who has been in practice since 1987, married for 34 years, 2 adult twin daughters, and now 2 sons (both daughters married). My overall philosophy is to assist clients in bringing balance to their lives by examining the emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of their lives. It is important to see the individual as a part of a system, as what may work for one person may not work for another due to current family dynamics and unresolved issues from their past.
(913) 225-8254 View (913) 225-8254
Photo of Barbara J Dickerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Barbara J Dickerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
Waitlist for new clients
I bring a Christian perspective to my counseling, however, will not judge or preach.
If you are in a difficult time in your life and are experiencing emotional pain, you may be ready to make personal changes. Your past experiences and your reactions to those experiences make you who you are, which makes perfect sense. We can't always stay the same and move on in our lives. I am a directive, involved, compassionate, experienced therapist who is willing to provide insight, options, and perspective to help you resolve individual, marital, family issues.
I bring a Christian perspective to my counseling, however, will not judge or preach.
If you are in a difficult time in your life and are experiencing emotional pain, you may be ready to make personal changes. Your past experiences and your reactions to those experiences make you who you are, which makes perfect sense. We can't always stay the same and move on in our lives. I am a directive, involved, compassionate, experienced therapist who is willing to provide insight, options, and perspective to help you resolve individual, marital, family issues.
(913) 601-7146 x49 View (913) 601-7146 x49
Photo of Sharree Jensen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jackson County, MO
Sharree Jensen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS-MFT, PLMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050
Let's be real. You are here looking for a therapist because something in you knows it is time for change. Whether that change is just for you or within your relationships... whether it is old stuff you "should be over," new stuff that is just hitting, or another combination of life's challenges... I'm here, ready to walk through it with you. You are here, and that is the first courageous step. Let's take the next step together by scheduling a free consultation call to see if we are a good fit. Please note: In order to provide you with personalized & flexible therapy, I do not accept insurance. I do accept HSA, Debit, & Credit Cards.
Let's be real. You are here looking for a therapist because something in you knows it is time for change. Whether that change is just for you or within your relationships... whether it is old stuff you "should be over," new stuff that is just hitting, or another combination of life's challenges... I'm here, ready to walk through it with you. You are here, and that is the first courageous step. Let's take the next step together by scheduling a free consultation call to see if we are a good fit. Please note: In order to provide you with personalized & flexible therapy, I do not accept insurance. I do accept HSA, Debit, & Credit Cards.
(816) 925-9541 View (816) 925-9541

See more therapy options for Jackson County


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.