Christian Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Lydia J Lanigan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MA
Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
Not accepting new clients
" I am comfortable with those who are exploring identity and spirituality, and l I can incorporate
Christian
faith into sessions if and only if that is something you desire.
If you are a teen or young adult who is struggling (or an advocate for one), know that I have spent my career working with young people, and -for real-, I get it. Being a teen (or adult, honestly) is hard! My goal is to be compassionate and authentic (zero judgment zone), meet you where you are, and help you to sort out your experiences, make meaning of them, and build your best life. I especially enjoy connecting with those who are neurodiverse or who have experienced hard stuff. I'm a pretty big nerd/geek, and I am fluent in "gamer," & I am comfortable with modifying to create an environment that works for you.
" I am comfortable with those who are exploring identity and spirituality, and l I can incorporate
Christian
faith into sessions if and only if that is something you desire.
If you are a teen or young adult who is struggling (or an advocate for one), know that I have spent my career working with young people, and -for real-, I get it. Being a teen (or adult, honestly) is hard! My goal is to be compassionate and authentic (zero judgment zone), meet you where you are, and help you to sort out your experiences, make meaning of them, and build your best life. I especially enjoy connecting with those who are neurodiverse or who have experienced hard stuff. I'm a pretty big nerd/geek, and I am fluent in "gamer," & I am comfortable with modifying to create an environment that works for you.

Kelly Rothrock
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
Grounded in compassion and
Christian
faith, my passion lies in supporting women and children on their unique journeys towards mental well-being. With a person-centered approach, I strive to create a safe, empathetic space where individuals can explore their thoughts and emotions freely. By fostering a non-judgmental environment, I aim to empower my clients to navigate life's challenges, promoting self-discovery and resilience. My commitment to fostering positive relationships and tailoring interventions to each person's needs reflects my belief in the transformative power of therapeutic connection.
Grounded in compassion and
Christian
faith, my passion lies in supporting women and children on their unique journeys towards mental well-being. With a person-centered approach, I strive to create a safe, empathetic space where individuals can explore their thoughts and emotions freely. By fostering a non-judgmental environment, I aim to empower my clients to navigate life's challenges, promoting self-discovery and resilience. My commitment to fostering positive relationships and tailoring interventions to each person's needs reflects my belief in the transformative power of therapeutic connection.

Allison Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I specialize with integrating
Christian
principles into the therapy process.
Do you feel alone, down, overwhelmed, or stressed out? Maybe your life has taken a sudden turn in a direction you were not expecting. Or maybe you feel your relationship is not what it used to be, or possibly, you're wondering if you're stuck in an abusive dynamic. In a world filled with challenges, uncertainties, and moments of self-doubt, finding the right professional counselor to accompany you on your journey of self-discovery is crucial.
I specialize with integrating
Christian
principles into the therapy process.
Do you feel alone, down, overwhelmed, or stressed out? Maybe your life has taken a sudden turn in a direction you were not expecting. Or maybe you feel your relationship is not what it used to be, or possibly, you're wondering if you're stuck in an abusive dynamic. In a world filled with challenges, uncertainties, and moments of self-doubt, finding the right professional counselor to accompany you on your journey of self-discovery is crucial.

Melva Hartzog
Licensed Professional Counselor, M, Div, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15214
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Divinity degree, I understand the need for some individual to seek
Christian
counseling for a variety of issues.
"The past cannot be changed. The future is yet in your power." OpenMind Wellness Counseling Services, LLC provides individual and group counseling to adolescents, adults, and older adults. I believe in incorporating an integrative, holistic approach to wellness, acknowledging the role mind-body-spirit play in the healing process. Healing is also promoted through the development of psychosocial areas of life: career, emotional, social, and interpersonal. My therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), including
Christian
- and spiritually-integrated CBT. I am a multicultural competent counselor. I am located in the Oakland area of Pittsburgh, and offer day, evening, and weekend hours.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Divinity degree, I understand the need for some individual to seek
Christian
counseling for a variety of issues.
"The past cannot be changed. The future is yet in your power." OpenMind Wellness Counseling Services, LLC provides individual and group counseling to adolescents, adults, and older adults. I believe in incorporating an integrative, holistic approach to wellness, acknowledging the role mind-body-spirit play in the healing process. Healing is also promoted through the development of psychosocial areas of life: career, emotional, social, and interpersonal. My therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), including
Christian
- and spiritually-integrated CBT. I am a multicultural competent counselor. I am located in the Oakland area of Pittsburgh, and offer day, evening, and weekend hours.

Cynthia-Dawn Zebley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
It is okay not to be okay! If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, or feeling stuck, I can help. My clients see me because they are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem or relational/marital conflict. Others see me to gain insight and understanding to a life transition or temporary problem. I provide a safe and warm environment for my clients to feel understood, encouraged, and hopeful. I use evidence-based and goal-directed treatments. I am passionate about working with people to reach their potential and flourish. Therapy within a
Christian
framework is offered upon request.
It is okay not to be okay! If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, or feeling stuck, I can help. My clients see me because they are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem or relational/marital conflict. Others see me to gain insight and understanding to a life transition or temporary problem. I provide a safe and warm environment for my clients to feel understood, encouraged, and hopeful. I use evidence-based and goal-directed treatments. I am passionate about working with people to reach their potential and flourish. Therapy within a
Christian
framework is offered upon request.

Brittany Eshelman
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (Online Only)
I also offer counseling from a
Christian
perspective if my client desires.
Are you tired of being bogged down by worry, relationship challenges, low mood, or low self-image? Are you struggling to manage your emotions? I believe counseling is about helping you become the best version of yourself. I invite clients to come as they are into a space where recovery and healing can take place- while feeling safe, relaxed, and supported in the process. My 10 years of experience has included counseling in community agency, hospital-based outpatient/intensive outpatient clinic, and private practice settings. My approach blends gentleness, warmth, and empathy with teaching skills to promote real life changes.
I also offer counseling from a
Christian
perspective if my client desires.
Are you tired of being bogged down by worry, relationship challenges, low mood, or low self-image? Are you struggling to manage your emotions? I believe counseling is about helping you become the best version of yourself. I invite clients to come as they are into a space where recovery and healing can take place- while feeling safe, relaxed, and supported in the process. My 10 years of experience has included counseling in community agency, hospital-based outpatient/intensive outpatient clinic, and private practice settings. My approach blends gentleness, warmth, and empathy with teaching skills to promote real life changes.

Grace Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MSEd, NCC, LPC
Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
We are a group of
Christian
Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with
Christian
counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com
We are a group of
Christian
Counselors who treat clients of all ages through Biblical truth and the healing power of God's grace. We integrate the best from the discipline of psychology with
Christian
counseling to help people find peace and contentment. We have counselors who specialize in addictions, attachment and trauma issues, grief, relationships, children, parenting, depression, anxiety and most other issues. Our organization has several centers throughout western PA. Please visit our website to see if we have a location that will meet your needs. www.thegracewellnesscenter.com

Dr. Nicole McKinney
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With 20 years experience of empowering individuals, couples and families, I aim to inspire those I counsel. I am passionate about people and the restoration, maintenance and progression of their relationships. I help people adjust to life changes including: academic, family or work related stress; education, employment or military relocation; and loss. I specialize in “before the ring” counseling, financial matters, interracial coupling, pregnancy care, and racial identity of Biracials. For those seeking
Christian
counseling, I am a Jesus follower and I am willing to incorporate faith into therapy upon request.
With 20 years experience of empowering individuals, couples and families, I aim to inspire those I counsel. I am passionate about people and the restoration, maintenance and progression of their relationships. I help people adjust to life changes including: academic, family or work related stress; education, employment or military relocation; and loss. I specialize in “before the ring” counseling, financial matters, interracial coupling, pregnancy care, and racial identity of Biracials. For those seeking
Christian
counseling, I am a Jesus follower and I am willing to incorporate faith into therapy upon request.

Jacqueline Boyle
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
In 2019 I graduated from Missio Seminary with a Master of Arts in
Christian
Counseling.
In my personal life I wear many hats. I have been married to my husband Jeb for 20 years. We have three wonderfully-wild and amazing kids (a boy and two girls). I am a
Christian
and I have a deep meaningful relationship with God. I have navigated my own trauma and PTSD. Trauma can be very isolating. The process of healing from my own trauma is what led me want to walk alongside others who are struggling with their own darkest times. My hope as a therapist is that no one has to walk alone. I value the therapeutic alliance and it has been my greatest joy to watch many clients transition from surviving to thriving.
In 2019 I graduated from Missio Seminary with a Master of Arts in
Christian
Counseling.
In my personal life I wear many hats. I have been married to my husband Jeb for 20 years. We have three wonderfully-wild and amazing kids (a boy and two girls). I am a
Christian
and I have a deep meaningful relationship with God. I have navigated my own trauma and PTSD. Trauma can be very isolating. The process of healing from my own trauma is what led me want to walk alongside others who are struggling with their own darkest times. My hope as a therapist is that no one has to walk alone. I value the therapeutic alliance and it has been my greatest joy to watch many clients transition from surviving to thriving.

Shannon Schroeder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (Online Only)
Whether it is pain from the past, challenges of current circumstances, or concerns about an uncertain future, counseling can help. As a therapist, I consider it a privilege to come alongside clients who may struggle with trauma, grief, eating/body image concerns, anxiety, depression or a variety of life transitions/struggles. I work with adolescents (14 and up) and adults of all ages and have had experience in school settings, hospital-based outpatient/IOP levels of care, and private practice. While I work with many people of diverse backgrounds, I am able to offer
Christian
counseling if desired.
Whether it is pain from the past, challenges of current circumstances, or concerns about an uncertain future, counseling can help. As a therapist, I consider it a privilege to come alongside clients who may struggle with trauma, grief, eating/body image concerns, anxiety, depression or a variety of life transitions/struggles. I work with adolescents (14 and up) and adults of all ages and have had experience in school settings, hospital-based outpatient/IOP levels of care, and private practice. While I work with many people of diverse backgrounds, I am able to offer
Christian
counseling if desired.

Ruth Han
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15260 (Online Only)
I am also a
Christian
, so if you want your faith integrated into your work, we can do that too.
The hardest part of starting therapy? Finding a therapist! You are desperate to figure things out, feeling vulnerable and raw, ready to make a change... yet... how can you pick someone from a list of hundreds of people who all sound the same? In an effort to make this process a bit easier, I am active on TikTok and Instagram. I have many short videos on these platforms so that you can get to know me a bit more and see if you feel comfortable reaching out to me. My handle and username on there is "ruthhantherapy".
I am also a
Christian
, so if you want your faith integrated into your work, we can do that too.
The hardest part of starting therapy? Finding a therapist! You are desperate to figure things out, feeling vulnerable and raw, ready to make a change... yet... how can you pick someone from a list of hundreds of people who all sound the same? In an effort to make this process a bit easier, I am active on TikTok and Instagram. I have many short videos on these platforms so that you can get to know me a bit more and see if you feel comfortable reaching out to me. My handle and username on there is "ruthhantherapy".
15 Second Videos
Trinity Wellness Group, LLC
Georgia Louise Scott
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Amy Gamble-Moore
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Amanda Ludwig -Becoming Whole Counseling Consulting
Augustine Lansana
Counseling for the Culture, LLC
Susan Rosemeier
Jason Batten
Blair Currie Mead
Shannon Mick
Adam Thomas
Steininger Counseling
Lisa Ibekwe
Stephanie Smigiel
Debbie Wilkinson
Dominique Dove
Yaron W Pickens
Matthew M Sniscak
Claudette Guider
Jennifer Tucker
Peacefulstart Counseling
Shane Patrick McCabe
Richard Trammel
Experiencing Eden, LLC
Liz Buford

Dana Nicholson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235 (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide the highest quality clinical services that empower you to find your inner strengths and reach your greatest potential. We create a safe, compassionate and caring environment for you to explore your strengths and utilize your gifts to your fullest potential. Life’s challenges can be overwhelming at times and we are here to help you overcome these while becoming stronger and healthier in the process. Love, peace, joy and harmony are possible in your life and we are here to help you elevate to your highest potential. As
Christian
counselors, we believe that no challenge is too big or pain too deep
Our mission is to provide the highest quality clinical services that empower you to find your inner strengths and reach your greatest potential. We create a safe, compassionate and caring environment for you to explore your strengths and utilize your gifts to your fullest potential. Life’s challenges can be overwhelming at times and we are here to help you overcome these while becoming stronger and healthier in the process. Love, peace, joy and harmony are possible in your life and we are here to help you elevate to your highest potential. As
Christian
counselors, we believe that no challenge is too big or pain too deep

Nancy Mitchell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MABC
Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15122
I also offer
Christian
and faith-based counseling to those who request it.
Are you OK? So many of us are experiencing anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Some of us feel stuck in our careers or lost in destructive patterns in our relationships. Perhaps you’re still grieving a lost loved one and feeling as though the hole in your heart will never heal – or maybe some trauma in your past has you trapped in a cycle of unwanted or unhealthy thoughts or behaviors. There is hope! We were designed to heal, and healing often takes place within safe relationships and connections with others. Therapy provides that safe relationship where real change can occur.
I also offer
Christian
and faith-based counseling to those who request it.
Are you OK? So many of us are experiencing anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Some of us feel stuck in our careers or lost in destructive patterns in our relationships. Perhaps you’re still grieving a lost loved one and feeling as though the hole in your heart will never heal – or maybe some trauma in your past has you trapped in a cycle of unwanted or unhealthy thoughts or behaviors. There is hope! We were designed to heal, and healing often takes place within safe relationships and connections with others. Therapy provides that safe relationship where real change can occur.

Kara Simone Pennybaker
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS
Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
I am a
Christian
Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I specialize in treating teens and adults who struggle with depression and anxiety. My goal is also to help you find meaning and purpose in everyday life. I take a holistic view of problems, and I use various counseling techniques to help you navigate new ways of processing and adding to your quality of life. I have a great deal of respect for your choice to seek therapy, as I believe you are the expert of your own experience. As such, I use a person-centered approach and work together with you to determine the best treatment course.
I am a
Christian
Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I specialize in treating teens and adults who struggle with depression and anxiety. My goal is also to help you find meaning and purpose in everyday life. I take a holistic view of problems, and I use various counseling techniques to help you navigate new ways of processing and adding to your quality of life. I have a great deal of respect for your choice to seek therapy, as I believe you are the expert of your own experience. As such, I use a person-centered approach and work together with you to determine the best treatment course.

Kaelin Wakeley
Pre-Licensed Professional, CMHC, NCC
Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Life gets hard for many reasons. Maybe you're in the middle of a transition or struggling to make relationships work. From navigating parenthood to the stress of high school, I provide a safe refuge for clients to come and share their stories. I particularly enjoy working with children and teens 8-18 who are struggling with anxiety. When you have used all the methods you can think of to ease those anxious thoughts or help your kid be their most confident self but are at a loss, I can help you move towards peace! I also address spiritual issues and can incorporate the
Christian
faith into session as the client desires.
Life gets hard for many reasons. Maybe you're in the middle of a transition or struggling to make relationships work. From navigating parenthood to the stress of high school, I provide a safe refuge for clients to come and share their stories. I particularly enjoy working with children and teens 8-18 who are struggling with anxiety. When you have used all the methods you can think of to ease those anxious thoughts or help your kid be their most confident self but are at a loss, I can help you move towards peace! I also address spiritual issues and can incorporate the
Christian
faith into session as the client desires.

Trinity Wellness Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15202
I work with women & couples who identify with
Christian
Faith to provide effective counseling from a Biblical perspective, grounded in formal training, and life experience. I'll get to know your strengths, values, beliefs, and goals, & help to get to the root issues. A thorough assessment & treatment from a holistic approach will get the best outcome, to not just "feel" better, but find freedom from your symptoms & patterns. I do not discriminate against anyone of any race, gender, or lifestyle, & believe ALL humans have value and should be treated with love and respect, so if you would like to work with me please schedule today!
I work with women & couples who identify with
Christian
Faith to provide effective counseling from a Biblical perspective, grounded in formal training, and life experience. I'll get to know your strengths, values, beliefs, and goals, & help to get to the root issues. A thorough assessment & treatment from a holistic approach will get the best outcome, to not just "feel" better, but find freedom from your symptoms & patterns. I do not discriminate against anyone of any race, gender, or lifestyle, & believe ALL humans have value and should be treated with love and respect, so if you would like to work with me please schedule today!

Under the Fig Tree Christian Counseling & Meditati
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BA
Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
This very gifted & knowledgeable
Christian
counselor meets people at the intersection of stabilizing stress/mental health & identifying spiritual balance through seeking peace and healing.
Trained in multi-modalities of psychotherapy and clinical social work, schooled in Theology, experienced in ministry, Certified in desensitizing trauma & anxiety (EMDR, Brainspotting, CBT), authorized to mediate divorce & custody agreements, created group therapy curriculum (grief, addiction & hoarding), 30+yrs under guided direction by clergy she has devoted her life’s work to a faith-based practice by studying healing of the mind, body, & soul from a Spiritual/Biblical perspective. Mary guides a unique approach for those seeking peace, hope, & healing through specific to each person; the ideal client wants change.
This very gifted & knowledgeable
Christian
counselor meets people at the intersection of stabilizing stress/mental health & identifying spiritual balance through seeking peace and healing.
Trained in multi-modalities of psychotherapy and clinical social work, schooled in Theology, experienced in ministry, Certified in desensitizing trauma & anxiety (EMDR, Brainspotting, CBT), authorized to mediate divorce & custody agreements, created group therapy curriculum (grief, addiction & hoarding), 30+yrs under guided direction by clergy she has devoted her life’s work to a faith-based practice by studying healing of the mind, body, & soul from a Spiritual/Biblical perspective. Mary guides a unique approach for those seeking peace, hope, & healing through specific to each person; the ideal client wants change.

Psalms of Healing, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ACS, MA
Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (Online Only)
Psalms of Healing is a
Christian
group counseling practice that specializes in faith based and non-faith based sex addiction and betrayal trauma recovery.
Psalms of Healing LLC offers CSAT trained coaches with a primary focus on trauma, betrayal trauma, sexual addiction, and EMDR. Psalms of Healing specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. They also work with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Their passion is to provide a safe space for their clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Psalms of Healing is a
Christian
group counseling practice that specializes in faith based and non-faith based sex addiction and betrayal trauma recovery.
Psalms of Healing LLC offers CSAT trained coaches with a primary focus on trauma, betrayal trauma, sexual addiction, and EMDR. Psalms of Healing specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. They also work with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Their passion is to provide a safe space for their clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.

Georgia Louise Scott
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC, MA
Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122 (Online Only)
I am also trained to provide
Christian
counseling.
Are you looking for a therapist who helps you explore the depths of your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions? Do you want practical tools that will help you begin to feel better in-the-moment? I understand the challenges you face: anxiety, feeling stuck, navigating change, and the desire for connection. I will offer you a helping hand and empower you to tackle these challenges head-on. We will work together to pull back the curtain on your inner world so that you can choose to live your life more authentically within your values. My goal as a counselor is to walk alongside you as you discover your path to true flourishing.
I am also trained to provide
Christian
counseling.
Are you looking for a therapist who helps you explore the depths of your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions? Do you want practical tools that will help you begin to feel better in-the-moment? I understand the challenges you face: anxiety, feeling stuck, navigating change, and the desire for connection. I will offer you a helping hand and empower you to tackle these challenges head-on. We will work together to pull back the curtain on your inner world so that you can choose to live your life more authentically within your values. My goal as a counselor is to walk alongside you as you discover your path to true flourishing.

Jodi Lynn Buzzell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
I have experience in
Christian
counseling and can incorporate one's beliefs in treatment.
Life has its challenges can be overwhelming and stressful. Individuals, families and couples can be effected by these issues . If you are feeling anxious, depressed or suffering from emotional or substance uses issues, experiencing family or relationship conflicts, let my 12 years of experience working with children, adults, families and couples, assist. My approach for families and couples, is exploring patterns in relationship dynamics, providing insight and improving communication . I have worked with adults and children to develop coping skills to manage emotional issues. Therapy is client centered, strength based and the goal is to empower and reach full potential.
I have experience in
Christian
counseling and can incorporate one's beliefs in treatment.
Life has its challenges can be overwhelming and stressful. Individuals, families and couples can be effected by these issues . If you are feeling anxious, depressed or suffering from emotional or substance uses issues, experiencing family or relationship conflicts, let my 12 years of experience working with children, adults, families and couples, assist. My approach for families and couples, is exploring patterns in relationship dynamics, providing insight and improving communication . I have worked with adults and children to develop coping skills to manage emotional issues. Therapy is client centered, strength based and the goal is to empower and reach full potential.
See more therapy options for Pittsburgh
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.