Should You Choose Christian Counseling?

A Therapist warmly engages with a client during Christian counseling session.

In the last few years, 'mental health' and 'mental wellness' has become a popular topic on the lips of many. For years, many did not understand the impact of mental health on day-to-day life but with time, research, and honest conversations the awareness has been raised. Now in many ways the world has accepted the importance and need for mental health support and have ensured that safe and accommodating spaces exist for those who may require it and thankfully the church is not too far behind as we see that Christian counselling exists. The American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) defines Christian counseling as the process of integrating “Christ-centered truth and biblically grounded guidance” into professional mental health practices (AACC, 2024).

In a lot of ways Christian counselling sets itself apart from traditional counselling because it blends Christian principles and practices with evidence based practices/modalities. Christian counselling allows clients to bring in their faith and Biblical principles into therapy sessions and homework assignments.

Is Christian Counseling a Good Option?

Studies show that spiritually integrated therapy improves outcomes for clients who value religion, helping to reduce depression, anxiety, and distress (Pargament et al., 2013). That said, when thinking about whether or not to actually seek Christian counseling specifically, it is important to consider your therapy goals, your current faith journey, or (if you are not religious) whether you feel you may benefit from such an approach. Like regular talk therapy sessions, it addresses emotional and mental health concerns with evidence-based psychological principles however because it integrates biblical truth you should consider what this means. Though you are never forced to engage in practices you're uncomfortable with, at a client's consent most christian counseling sessions can include prayer and meditation on the Bible, more reflection aligned with faith, God, and so forth. Considering all this if you feel that this is the direction that you would like your therapy/counselling sessions to take, then maybe Christian counselling may be a good option for you.

Final Thoughts

Choosing Christian counseling is largely dependent on your beliefs and where you are in life. If you are unsure about whether or not this is the right approach for you, take a moment to reflect on what your therapy goals and needs are. If they align with what Christian counselling offers, then you may be a good candidate for this approach. Either way you are welcome to book a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if this approach or standard counselling/psychotherapy would be best.

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We hope to hear from you and support you on this journey!

Click here to schedule your free consultation (Or call us directly at 905 904 1403)

Your journey toward healing, peace, and purpose starts here. You are not alone.

Sources:

• American Association of Christian Counselors. (2024). Christian Counseling Resources. https://www.aacc.net

• Pargament, K. I., et al. (2013). Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapy: Understanding and Addressing the Sacred. American Psychological Association.

• The Holy Bible.