Psychology based in Christian teachings
My approach to counseling for anxiety combines psychological principles with Christian teachings to help individuals cope with, and overcome anxiety from a faith-based perspective. It aims to address not only the emotional and cognitive aspects of anxiety but also the spiritual dimensions that can contribute to healing and growth.
Below are some key principles and approaches that might be integrated into our conversations:
Prayer and Trust in God
Encouraging prayer as a means of seeking comfort, guidance, and strength. Fostering a deeper trust in God’s plan and providence can help alleviate anxiety.
Biblical Wisdom
Integrating teachings from the Bible that relate to anxiety, such as verses that emphasize trust, hope, and casting one’s burdens on God (e.g., Philippians 4:6-7, Matthew 6:25-34).
Cognitive Restructuring
Helping to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and replace them with more positive and realistic perspectives. This can involve aligning thoughts with God’s truths and promises.
Mindfulness and Meditation
Incorporating Christian mindfulness practices that focus on being present in the moment and connecting with God through meditation and contemplative prayer.
Self-Care and Sabbath
Teaching the importance of taking care of their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Emphasizing the concept of Sabbath rest as a way to recharge and draw closer to God.
Community and Support
Encouraging connection with a Christian community, such as a church or small group, for emotional support, encouragement, and prayer.
Forgiveness and Grace
Exploring the concepts of forgiveness, both towards others and oneself, as well as embracing God’s grace and unconditional love as a source of healing.
Scripture Memorization
Memorization of Bible verses that offer comfort and strength during moments of anxiety. These verses can serve as a “toolbox” of coping strategies.
Purpose and Identity in Christ
Helping individuals understand their identity as children of God and encouraging them to find purpose and meaning in their relationship with Christ.
Professional Collaboration
While Christian counseling integrates faith, it’s important to acknowledge that severe anxiety might require collaboration with mental health professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, especially when therapy or medication is necessary.
Following Christian principles, I will provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore your anxieties, your faith, and your journey towards healing and peace. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, reach out today for a free consultation so that we can begin together to bring relief and renewed spiritual strength.
Definitions
Combines psychological principles with Christian teachings to help individuals heal from emotional distress and psychological difficulties.
Addresses the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, aiming to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress and psychological difficulties.
Focuses on helping individuals process their traumatic experiences and address the cognitive distortions and beliefs that often result from trauma.
Focuses on helping individuals within family relationships understand and address their interactions, conflicts, and dynamics in order to create healthier and more functional relationships.
Employing a mindful approach toward therapy, this process is designed to help those who struggle with intense emotions and have difficulties regulating their emotions and behaviors.
Aims to reduce the distressing symptoms of PTSD by helping individuals confront and process traumatic memories and situations that they have been avoiding.
CPT or CBT?
When working with clients who struggle with trauma I like to use Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), a 12 session program. Most clients are successful in this time frame but we can add additional sessions if needed.
Clients struggling with depression/anxiety would most often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). The session amount may vary however most will see changes within 8 sessions.
