You’ve done some research or heard from your doctor that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is what you or a loved one needs. And, as someone who currently works with me or is interested in possibly setting up an appointment, you may be wondering if I provide CBT. You’re not the only one who’s inquiring; it’s one of the questions I’m most often asked.

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

The therapeutic idea behind CBT is to help you think differently about your circumstances in order to improve your emotional well-being and operate in new ways. Secular clinicians often conduct this therapy in a highly structured format with charts and homework.

Can Christian Counselors Practice CBT?

Some Christian counselors believe CBT is easily integrated with their Biblical worldview, and they readily teach these cognitive-behavioral skills to their clients. On the other hand, some Biblical counselors de-emphasize the specific technique in order to protect counselees from overly subjective perspectives, making changes by one’s own strength rather than by the grace of Jesus Christ, or neglecting other areas that need growth.

Do I Provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

Even though I don’t follow CBT exactly according to the textbooks, when we’re working together you’ll benefit from the strengths of CBT. Absolutely, like other Christian counselors who integrate this technique with their faith, you’ll be encouraged to think in Biblical and healthy ways that lead to a thriving function. But, also like other Biblical counselors who are cautious about CBT, I’m always working even more comprehensively than solely zeroing in on one’s thought life.

For example, when working with someone who has trauma, loss, or is hesitant about counseling, I’m especially focused on developing a safe relationship, offering a place to feel heard, known, and respected, and looking for unmet needs (such as a time to grieve, etc.) before I begin encouraging a new and improved way of thinking.

Or, for example, when a young person has fallen for the lies of culture and is hyper-focused on only one aspect of their personhood, I encourage holistic development and identity in Christ and not just on changing thought patterns.

And when I’m working with a married couple, a mother/daughter pair, multiple family members, etc., I’m there to teach relationship skills and individual responsibility as much as my purpose is to foster transformed minds.

In summary, I believe that the way you think impacts the way you feel and directs what you choose, and in that sense, you’ll experience CBT when working with me. In other words, I encourage healthier, more productive, less sinful, and more Biblically-aligned thinking for all. Additionally, it is my great desire that by meeting with me, you’ll grow more aware of your special place in God’s Kingdom work. I want to inspire a life built around Christ and His truth in every area of your being (physical health, emotions, relationships, etc.) and in every aspect your life (circumstances, job, education, etc.) to receive the greatest result from the counseling process.

Prayer & Blessing

May you love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself. (Lk. 10:27)