“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” - 2 Timothy 3:16-17
A Brief Reflection
After a recent presentation to a group of therapists on marriage counseling, I was approached by a former professor who was in attendance. He came to where I was standing and asked me to clarify what made Christian counseling distinct from other clinical approaches. I recall providing a brief response, but we didn’t have time to fully explore the issue. The reality is there are multiple reasons I practice as a Christian counselor. I’ll explore a few of these reasons in this article, and identify what I believe makes Christian counseling a truly distinct and meaningful endeavor.
A Common Platform
Inherent in the Christian counseling framework is the belief that God is real, that he has provided salvation through his Son, that he engages his followers by the sanctifying work and leading of his Spirit, and that his Word is inspired and true. This foundation of belief provides a common platform to build upon as presenting issues are addressed. Furthermore, this platform of Biblical truth is viewed as integral to the overall process of change in the life of every client.
Safety & Trust
One of the most common reasons clients express seeking Christian counseling, is their desire to engage with a therapist who will view and address what they are going through from a Scriptural lens. This is part of clients developing an essential trust with the counselor, which in turn informs the overall counseling process. In other words, they want to know the counselor will help guide them according to sound biblical doctrine, instead of introducing or challenging them with new age concepts or other secular philosophies.
A Necessary Integration
Practicing as a Christian counselor requires having a thorough knowledge of the human mind and body, and empirically based treatment approaches allowing for the provision of effective clinical treatment. Primary examples include attachment theory and cognitive psychology. Our knowledge of these and many other facets of counseling and human psychology are necessary to helping people develop a greater understanding of themselves, and effectively navigate issues related to their emotions, relationships, and various life experiences.
When joined with thorough understanding of Scripture, a Christian counselor can dive deep into both realms with a client. This makes for a more complete form of treatment, with neither biblical or secular information applied to the exclusion of the other. We can consider an example that helps us recognize why both domains are relevant and necessary.
A Clear Example
When visiting our primary care doctor, we expect them to have the medical knowledge necessary to assess, treat, and prevent the symptoms we’re experiencing in our body. We would not expect them to listen to our concerns, quote a few Scriptures, and send us away with a kind, “Have a nice day!” That would be absurd and unethical. Similarly, it doesn’t make sense to hold a Christian counselor, or any counselor for that matter, to a lesser standard. You would rightly expect them to have clinical knowledge necessary to address the issues for which counseling is being sought.
Moments to Pray
One of the most unique and empowering elements of Christian counseling is allowing for opportunities to pray with a client. In my practice, this generally takes the form of ending a session with either myself or a client saying a very brief prayer. The aim is joining with a client in acknowledging the work God is doing within them and the counseling process. There is absolutely no requirement or expectation for a client or the therapist to pray, however my experience is that clients are largely thankful for those opportunities when offered.
Aiming for Edification
Overall, my desire is to draw people into a deeper fellowship with God, while helping them navigate the emotional, relational, and spiritual complexities of life. The hope is for each client to come away from the counseling process strengthened, edified, and having a greater sense of wholeness in their lives. In that regard, being a Christian counselor is a great joy and privilege for which I am truly thankful.
Eric Gomez
Marriage & Family Therapist
Fulfilled Christian Counseling