Christian counseling

Christian counseling is counseling done by a professional counselor who upholds the Christian value system, beliefs and philosophy. The unifying factor is the therapist, him or herself, who has integrated Christianity (Christ-centered and Bible-based), the research of psychology, and the methodologies of psychotherapy. Clients see Christian counseling as a relationship with a caring counselor directed toward increased awareness of themselves, others, the societies and cultures in which they live, and their knowledge of God. It is often focused on solving problems.

Depending on the clinical perspective informing any given Christian counselor's integration, this process may take various avenues and target diverse goals. Indeed, sometimes it may seem paradoxical and target no goal but the actualizing of the present moment in which both client and therapist meet. Some clients are comforted knowing their counselor is a Christian, and they feel such a person's advice can be trusted. Some clients also wish to use the Bible as a reference for their therapy. For some, prayer enters into the counseling process as well.

A degree in "Christian Counseling" is not required; however, ethical and professional standards suggest that someone holding him or herself out to be a Christian Counselor would have become competent. Some schools offer a Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling while teaching Christian Counseling through the classes. There are about 19 programs currently offering teaching in integration on the subject matters. They can be, but are not required to be a psychologist, psychiatrist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, a Marriage, Family and Child Counselor (MFCC), or a Certified Addictions Therapist.

Christian and secular counselors both counsel from a professional standpoint, meaning, they adhere to ethical codes, professional standards, ofen utilize supervision, and do such clinical things as consult the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) as a basis of diagnois. Christian Counselors are distinct from the others in that many see the Bible as their supreme source of truth, continually nurture their own growth in Christlikeness, seek the help of the Holy Spirit during the process of counseling, and consider counseling itself as a form of discipleship or ministry by which they serve others in the name of Christ. Although there are differences among secular and Christian Counseling, both can utilize similar models of therapy. For example, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Family Systems, and Psychodynamic Therapy can be used by both Christian and non-Christian therapists and counselors.