Anonymous asked:
I need to some therapy for anxiety and other issues. Would choosing a counselor who is able to help with these things and also offers Christian counseling be a good option? I'm afraid of getting legalistically biblical guidance that will make things worse. Is this a valid concern?
I answered:
First of all- congratulations on deciding to get help! That is an awesome step that takes courage and faith and we are super proud of you!
Now to your question. Your concern is completely valid.
Feeling like a therapist gets where you are coming from can be an important part of cultivating the trust and good communication that makes for a productive experience. Some people find having a therapist who is familiar with or shares their faith background is a positive in that sense. Others don’t want a therapist or counselor who focuses on that for exactly the reasons you describe in your question.
Neither of those are right or wrong. It is about finding what works for you. That might mean trying counselors and seeing who you click with, and that is perfectly okay too.
Christian or not, it is important that you have a counselor you feel comfortable with. It is also important that you have one who is qualified. There is a big difference between someone who has done the appropriate education and training who happens to be Christian and someone who just uses a term like “Christian counselor”.
I don’t care if they how Christian they are, I want my doctor to have the proper training and licensure. The same goes for mental health professionals.
It’s great that you are seeking the help of a trained professional. Finding the right one for you might take some effort, but the pay off will be worth it!