Christian Therapists in Dublin, OH

Photo of Erin Pritchard - Erin Pritchard: EMDR Intensives | Sex Therapy, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Erin Pritchard: EMDR Intensives | Sex Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
5 Endorsed
Online Only
EMDR Intensives are an accelerated, trauma focused therapy model that allow for healing and growth faster than possible with normal weekly therapy, and may include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Christian counseling, and sex therapy.
You’re insightful, high-achieving, and place value on your health, relationships, & personal growth. Things are good, but you know they can be better. You've been in therapy before & come as far as you can "just talking about it." You’re ready to dig deeper & experience profound change. I work with clients to treat underlying causes of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), low self esteem, trauma and PTSD, sexual dysfunction, & relationship concerns. I love facilitating this process with Intensive EMDR therapy, sex therapy, and Gottman Method. My clients are ready for change & don't want to spend years in therapy to get it.
EMDR Intensives are an accelerated, trauma focused therapy model that allow for healing and growth faster than possible with normal weekly therapy, and may include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Christian counseling, and sex therapy.
You’re insightful, high-achieving, and place value on your health, relationships, & personal growth. Things are good, but you know they can be better. You've been in therapy before & come as far as you can "just talking about it." You’re ready to dig deeper & experience profound change. I work with clients to treat underlying causes of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), low self esteem, trauma and PTSD, sexual dysfunction, & relationship concerns. I love facilitating this process with Intensive EMDR therapy, sex therapy, and Gottman Method. My clients are ready for change & don't want to spend years in therapy to get it.
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Photo of Dr. George O Schulz - George O Schulz PhD - Christian Counseling, Psychologist, PhD
I'm a Christian myself, but therapy with me is always a judgement-free space - your beliefs and experiences are respected as your own.
Change can be overwhelming - but you don't have to face it alone. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, or relationship challenges, therapy can help you reconnect your strength and move toward the life you want. With over 30+ years experience, I provide Counseling, Psychological Testing, and Life Coaching. In our sessions, together, without unnecessary medication, we'll uncover the patterns that keep you stuck and build practical skills to manage stress, change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, and build positive healthier relationships.
I'm a Christian myself, but therapy with me is always a judgement-free space - your beliefs and experiences are respected as your own.
Change can be overwhelming - but you don't have to face it alone. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, or relationship challenges, therapy can help you reconnect your strength and move toward the life you want. With over 30+ years experience, I provide Counseling, Psychological Testing, and Life Coaching. In our sessions, together, without unnecessary medication, we'll uncover the patterns that keep you stuck and build practical skills to manage stress, change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, and build positive healthier relationships.
(614) 763-6015 View (614) 763-6015
Photo of Jessica Wade, Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Jessica Wade
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
4 Endorsed
Online Only
CO-PARENTS: Do you find yourself in constant conflict with your child's other parent? Whether living apart or together, even the friendliest of co-parents have differences in how to raise their kids. But, it's not typical to experience unending conflict over every parenting decision; and it may surprise you to learn that 15 years of experience tells me it's probably not actually a parenting fight that brings you back to that "here we go again" feeling. If you find yourself in a never-ending cycle of fighting, passive-agression, and feeling stuck with your co-parenting decisions, contact me.
CO-PARENTS: Do you find yourself in constant conflict with your child's other parent? Whether living apart or together, even the friendliest of co-parents have differences in how to raise their kids. But, it's not typical to experience unending conflict over every parenting decision; and it may surprise you to learn that 15 years of experience tells me it's probably not actually a parenting fight that brings you back to that "here we go again" feeling. If you find yourself in a never-ending cycle of fighting, passive-agression, and feeling stuck with your co-parenting decisions, contact me.
(380) 233-9298 View (380) 233-9298
Photo of Olga S Prokopyuk, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Olga S Prokopyuk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
3 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
I specialize in working with individuals navigating religious trauma, cultural adjustment, and the challenges faced by immigrants or children of immigrants. I also offer premarital and couples therapy to help partners build stronger connections. My goal is to provide a compassionate space for healing and self-discovery. Whether you’re processing the effects of a strict religious upbringing, balancing cultural expectations, or working to strengthen your relationship, I’m here to support you. My ideal clients are those ready to prioritize their well-being, embrace growth, and create fulfilling lives aligned with their values.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating religious trauma, cultural adjustment, and the challenges faced by immigrants or children of immigrants. I also offer premarital and couples therapy to help partners build stronger connections. My goal is to provide a compassionate space for healing and self-discovery. Whether you’re processing the effects of a strict religious upbringing, balancing cultural expectations, or working to strengthen your relationship, I’m here to support you. My ideal clients are those ready to prioritize their well-being, embrace growth, and create fulfilling lives aligned with their values.
(614) 756-6745 View (614) 756-6745
Photo of Emily Leonard, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Emily Leonard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
4 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
I'm here for the girls. If you're a woman (or a parent of a girl 13+) who feels broken, anxious, and like the world speaks a different language than you, I'm here to help you decipher the code with love and patience. Trauma, chronic illness, and neurodivergence change the way we view the world and how we approach it, but we can work together, in the name of Jesus, to bring your heart and mind peace despite it all. There is hope, no matter what, and I want to make sure you see it.
I'm here for the girls. If you're a woman (or a parent of a girl 13+) who feels broken, anxious, and like the world speaks a different language than you, I'm here to help you decipher the code with love and patience. Trauma, chronic illness, and neurodivergence change the way we view the world and how we approach it, but we can work together, in the name of Jesus, to bring your heart and mind peace despite it all. There is hope, no matter what, and I want to make sure you see it.
(513) 845-3973 x508 View (513) 845-3973 x508
Photo of Crissy Bontrager, Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Crissy Bontrager
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Dublin, OH 43016
Life is hard. It doesn’t give breaks, or breathers, or care how hectic your day is. Worst of all, life convinces you that your troubles are entirely your own and everyone else has it all together. The reality is, others share your heartache, anxiety, or trauma. We sit with them. We hear them. Together we find a path through it to manage all that life throws at us. Let me sit and walk with you.
Life is hard. It doesn’t give breaks, or breathers, or care how hectic your day is. Worst of all, life convinces you that your troubles are entirely your own and everyone else has it all together. The reality is, others share your heartache, anxiety, or trauma. We sit with them. We hear them. Together we find a path through it to manage all that life throws at us. Let me sit and walk with you.
(740) 756-6201 View (740) 756-6201
Photo of Deidre Brooke, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Deidre Brooke
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Dublin, OH 43016
While I enjoy working with a wide range of clients, I specialize in trauma, PTSD, Disociative Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar & Substance Use.
While I enjoy working with a wide range of clients, I specialize in trauma, PTSD, Disociative Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar & Substance Use.
(614) 683-2078 View (614) 683-2078
Photo of Mary R Hamparian, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Mary R Hamparian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
1 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Primary training and clinical focus includes cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, person centered therapy, and christian therapy.
I am a licensed professional counselor and supervisor who is passionate about helping people. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I am committed to partnering with you on your journey of life. Together, we will work to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop the skills you need to live a more fulfilling life.
Primary training and clinical focus includes cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, person centered therapy, and christian therapy.
I am a licensed professional counselor and supervisor who is passionate about helping people. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I am committed to partnering with you on your journey of life. Together, we will work to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop the skills you need to live a more fulfilling life.
(380) 225-5143 View (380) 225-5143
Photo of Erin Zarlino, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Erin Zarlino
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
2 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43016
Do you find yourself feeling disconnected, zoning out, or struggling to stay present? Perhaps you notice patterns in relationships that leave you feeling rejected, abandoned, or like a burden. You may have grown up in an environment where emotional safety was lacking. I also work with parents who are raising children while navigating their own experiences. Some feel overwhelmed by your child’s emotions while trying to manage your own, or you're worried you might “mess them up,” or fear of losing your own sense of identity. Perhaps you experienced a painful loss in pregnancy. Postpartum or in parenting and need a space to grieve.
Do you find yourself feeling disconnected, zoning out, or struggling to stay present? Perhaps you notice patterns in relationships that leave you feeling rejected, abandoned, or like a burden. You may have grown up in an environment where emotional safety was lacking. I also work with parents who are raising children while navigating their own experiences. Some feel overwhelmed by your child’s emotions while trying to manage your own, or you're worried you might “mess them up,” or fear of losing your own sense of identity. Perhaps you experienced a painful loss in pregnancy. Postpartum or in parenting and need a space to grieve.
(740) 481-6707 View (740) 481-6707
Photo of Anita Kramer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Anita Kramer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Online Only
Hello, I'm Anita, and I'm here to help you navigate the path to a healthier and more fulfilling life. I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from San Diego State University and have experience working with individuals facing serious mental health and addiction issues. I understand that finding stability and peace can sometimes feel overwhelming, but together, we can explore the best ways to improve your mental health and addiction through therapy sessions that are centered on you and your unique needs. If you are ready to live a healthier life, I am available to meet with you.
Hello, I'm Anita, and I'm here to help you navigate the path to a healthier and more fulfilling life. I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from San Diego State University and have experience working with individuals facing serious mental health and addiction issues. I understand that finding stability and peace can sometimes feel overwhelming, but together, we can explore the best ways to improve your mental health and addiction through therapy sessions that are centered on you and your unique needs. If you are ready to live a healthier life, I am available to meet with you.
(740) 448-6477 View (740) 448-6477
Photo of Sarah L. O'Nesti, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, ME, LPCC, CCTP
Sarah L. O'Nesti
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, ME, LPCC, CCTP
Dublin, OH 43017
My mission is to help my clients find freedom and healing from anxiety, depression, broken relationships, and the impact that daily stress can have on our mental health. My clinical experience has involved 7 years of working with individuals suffering from addiction, anxiety, depression, as well as current or past traumatic experiences. Many people struggle with perfectionism, need to feel in control, social anxiety, feelings of inferiority and fears of abandonment.
My mission is to help my clients find freedom and healing from anxiety, depression, broken relationships, and the impact that daily stress can have on our mental health. My clinical experience has involved 7 years of working with individuals suffering from addiction, anxiety, depression, as well as current or past traumatic experiences. Many people struggle with perfectionism, need to feel in control, social anxiety, feelings of inferiority and fears of abandonment.
(937) 761-3673 View (937) 761-3673
Photo of Luke Richmond, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Luke Richmond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Is anxiety, past hurt, or trauma impacting your life and relationships? I’m here to help. As a trauma-informed, emotionally focused clinician, I am trained to support individuals motivated to make positive changes. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, sleep issues, PTSD, flashbacks, and panic attacks, with a special focus on spiritual abuse and "church hurt." I also provide services for depression, marital challenges, premarital counseling, and sexual addiction recovery.
Is anxiety, past hurt, or trauma impacting your life and relationships? I’m here to help. As a trauma-informed, emotionally focused clinician, I am trained to support individuals motivated to make positive changes. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, sleep issues, PTSD, flashbacks, and panic attacks, with a special focus on spiritual abuse and "church hurt." I also provide services for depression, marital challenges, premarital counseling, and sexual addiction recovery.
(380) 214-2306 View (380) 214-2306
Photo of Kaela Rae Vance, Counselor, LPCC-S, MEd
Kaela Rae Vance
Counselor, LPCC-S, MEd
5 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
You may look like you have it all together, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns you can’t fully explain. Many of the people I work with are carrying unresolved grief, trauma, or emotional pain that has quietly shaped how they relate to themselves and others. They’re functioning—but exhausted—and often wonder why things still feel so heavy despite their best efforts. I work with young adults and middle-aged adults navigating grief, trauma, anxiety, low self-worth, and PTSD, especially those who feel deeply responsible for others yet struggle to feel grounded or at peace themselves.
You may look like you have it all together, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns you can’t fully explain. Many of the people I work with are carrying unresolved grief, trauma, or emotional pain that has quietly shaped how they relate to themselves and others. They’re functioning—but exhausted—and often wonder why things still feel so heavy despite their best efforts. I work with young adults and middle-aged adults navigating grief, trauma, anxiety, low self-worth, and PTSD, especially those who feel deeply responsible for others yet struggle to feel grounded or at peace themselves.
(380) 210-3631 View (380) 210-3631
Photo of Karen A Burkhart, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Karen A Burkhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
1 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Personally, I am a Christian, and am well-versed in theology and faith practices.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of your life circumstances or relationships? Are you tired of negative thought patterns that leave you depressed and anxious? Has a recent loss, through death or divorce left you agonizing and stuck? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, I would love to come alongside you. I will lend support and a fresh perspective as you process your experiences, thoughts, and feelings, and help you progress from where you are to where you want to be. Sometimes progress comes through acceptance and other times through targeted action; I'd be honored to help you with either or both.
Personally, I am a Christian, and am well-versed in theology and faith practices.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of your life circumstances or relationships? Are you tired of negative thought patterns that leave you depressed and anxious? Has a recent loss, through death or divorce left you agonizing and stuck? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, I would love to come alongside you. I will lend support and a fresh perspective as you process your experiences, thoughts, and feelings, and help you progress from where you are to where you want to be. Sometimes progress comes through acceptance and other times through targeted action; I'd be honored to help you with either or both.
(380) 220-8141 x518 View (380) 220-8141 x518
Photo of Dr. Ronald T. Fleming, PhD, MTh, LPCC-S
Dr. Ronald T. Fleming
Verified Verified
Online Only
Sometimes life can leave us off balance. My desire is to walk alongside and help you gain your footing. With the fast pace of society, there are bound to be challenges. Taking action is the necessary first step toward further growth and development. The hope is to help clients gain insight into building a therapeutic relationship fostered by authenticity and trust.
Sometimes life can leave us off balance. My desire is to walk alongside and help you gain your footing. With the fast pace of society, there are bound to be challenges. Taking action is the necessary first step toward further growth and development. The hope is to help clients gain insight into building a therapeutic relationship fostered by authenticity and trust.
(614) 877-6342 View (614) 877-6342
Photo of Kaleigh Ruegsegger, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kaleigh Ruegsegger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Dublin, OH 43017
To everyone else, you seem like you're doing OK. It looks like you have your stuff together, deadlines are met, and you're juggling five hours' worth of work in two hours' time. But inside, something doesn't seem right. Maybe you feel like you're not doing enough. Maybe you feel like your work has no meaning. Maybe you just don't feel "OK". Does this sound familiar? Don't worry, I've been there, too. I've felt like my life was falling apart, only to be told that I'm "doing so well!" when I voiced my concerns to the people I love. Asking for help is the first step, and the hardest one.
To everyone else, you seem like you're doing OK. It looks like you have your stuff together, deadlines are met, and you're juggling five hours' worth of work in two hours' time. But inside, something doesn't seem right. Maybe you feel like you're not doing enough. Maybe you feel like your work has no meaning. Maybe you just don't feel "OK". Does this sound familiar? Don't worry, I've been there, too. I've felt like my life was falling apart, only to be told that I'm "doing so well!" when I voiced my concerns to the people I love. Asking for help is the first step, and the hardest one.
(380) 225-5491 View (380) 225-5491
Photo of Stephanie A. Jones - Harmony Haven Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Harmony Haven Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
As a member of the Focus on the Family Christian Counselors Network, I provide values-informed care that integrates evidence-based practices with a faith-sensitive approach, supporting the emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being of individuals and families.
Hi there, I'm Stephanie Jones, MA, LPC. I specialize in providing guidance to a myriad of individuals seeking to enhance their mental well-being, overcome obstacles, and cultivate healthier connections and self-confidence. I work with individuals & couples who are committed to personal growth and open to practical strategies that build a positive mindset and support lasting change. For professionals navigating what's next, I help make the path forward clearer—and more meaningful The fastest way to reach me is by submitting a request through Psychology Today. Lastly, I am currently under the supervision of Jeremy Borsos, LPCC-S.
As a member of the Focus on the Family Christian Counselors Network, I provide values-informed care that integrates evidence-based practices with a faith-sensitive approach, supporting the emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being of individuals and families.
Hi there, I'm Stephanie Jones, MA, LPC. I specialize in providing guidance to a myriad of individuals seeking to enhance their mental well-being, overcome obstacles, and cultivate healthier connections and self-confidence. I work with individuals & couples who are committed to personal growth and open to practical strategies that build a positive mindset and support lasting change. For professionals navigating what's next, I help make the path forward clearer—and more meaningful The fastest way to reach me is by submitting a request through Psychology Today. Lastly, I am currently under the supervision of Jeremy Borsos, LPCC-S.
(614) 810-4987 View (614) 810-4987
Photo of Schiviena Crawley, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Schiviena Crawley
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also offer Christian counseling if requested.
You wish there was someone who understood you; someone you could talk to without being judged or made to feel bad about your feelings. You’ve suffered a great loss and you haven’t been the same since. You’re wondering if the pain will ever go away and if you’ll ever be happy again. Life has been hard and you’ve questioned if it’s even worth living. You’re bombarded with mental images, thoughts, or reminders about a trauma that won't seem to go away. Grief and trauma have a way of changing our entire world. You desperately want to feel hope again. Or maybe you're experiencing stress and worry about other major life transitions.
I also offer Christian counseling if requested.
You wish there was someone who understood you; someone you could talk to without being judged or made to feel bad about your feelings. You’ve suffered a great loss and you haven’t been the same since. You’re wondering if the pain will ever go away and if you’ll ever be happy again. Life has been hard and you’ve questioned if it’s even worth living. You’re bombarded with mental images, thoughts, or reminders about a trauma that won't seem to go away. Grief and trauma have a way of changing our entire world. You desperately want to feel hope again. Or maybe you're experiencing stress and worry about other major life transitions.
(513) 726-9033 View (513) 726-9033
Photo of Kearston Rudolph, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LSC, LPCC
Kearston Rudolph
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LSC, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello - I am SO glad you're here and that you found me! My name is Kearston Rudolph and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) at Bridges Counseling of Ohio. I work with children, teens and young adults with a wide range of presenting concerns related to: Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Relationship Issues, Creating Boundaries, Communication, Self-esteem/Self-worth, Life Transitions and the stress that simply comes from growing up. I also have a passion for working with the siblings, parents and/or entire family units of my clients to allow the most cohesive and cooperative relationships possible.
Hello - I am SO glad you're here and that you found me! My name is Kearston Rudolph and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) at Bridges Counseling of Ohio. I work with children, teens and young adults with a wide range of presenting concerns related to: Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Relationship Issues, Creating Boundaries, Communication, Self-esteem/Self-worth, Life Transitions and the stress that simply comes from growing up. I also have a passion for working with the siblings, parents and/or entire family units of my clients to allow the most cohesive and cooperative relationships possible.
(740) 224-5975 View (740) 224-5975
Photo of Alyson Bachman, Licensed Independent Social Worker, MSW, LISW-S, ACM
Alyson Bachman
Licensed Independent Social Worker, MSW, LISW-S, ACM
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You may be a good fit for my practice if you are a caregiver, veteran spouse or someone supporting a loved one through chronic illness, disability or complex medical needs. Many of my clients feel emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, or isolated while carrying responsibilities that others may not fully see or understand. You might be balancing medical appointments, caregiving duties, work, family and relationships-while quietly struggling with burnout, anxiety, grief, guilt, resentment or identity changes If you often put yourself last and feel unsure how to keep going without losing yourself, you're not alone.
You may be a good fit for my practice if you are a caregiver, veteran spouse or someone supporting a loved one through chronic illness, disability or complex medical needs. Many of my clients feel emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, or isolated while carrying responsibilities that others may not fully see or understand. You might be balancing medical appointments, caregiving duties, work, family and relationships-while quietly struggling with burnout, anxiety, grief, guilt, resentment or identity changes If you often put yourself last and feel unsure how to keep going without losing yourself, you're not alone.
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See more therapy options for Dublin

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.