What Does the Bible Say About Counseling?
Takeaway: Many Christians are uncertain about the relationship between their faith and their mental health. Is it okay to seek counseling as a Christian? And what does the Bible say about therapy? As a Christian and a therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how healing it can be to combine the two. In this post, I’ll address what our religion says about mental health so you can feel confident getting the support you need.
Understanding the relationship between religion and mental health
As Christians, we're often given the implicit (or sometimes even explicit) message that religion and mental health are two completely separate topics. As a Christian counselor myself, I've heard these harmful misconceptions. The truth is that we can receive the power of the Holy Spirit through therapy.
But you don't have to take my word for it. Let's draw on the God's word to discover what He has to say about the power of counseling.
What does the Bible say about therapy?
As Christians, we know that we can only be healed through God's wise guidance. After all, there's a reason why He is called "Wonderful Counselor."
At the same time, we know that Holy Spirit can often work through other human beings. Consider how He sent Jesus Christ, His only son, so that we may have eternal life. He also spreads His word through members of the clergy, the Church community, and even through mental health counselors.
Here are some examples of what the Bible verses that discuss the concept of counseling.
Isaiah 9:6
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
This verse touches on the concept of our Lord Jesus Christ as Wonderful Counselor. I see therapy as a gift from God, one that allows us to draw on His own authority through a human relationship.
Psalm 32:8
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.
Here, God promises us that He will always guide us. If you are feeling drawn to the idea of counseling, consider that this might be God encouraging you to seek therapy as a way to gain wisdom and deepen your relationship with Him.
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
This verse speaks to the power of prayer. Many counselors incorporate prayer into sessions, and engaging in this practice with someone else can help you deepen your prayer life.
Proverbs 11:14
For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.
We're not meant to navigate through this life alone. A righteous person should humbly ask God (both directly and through trusted sources, like a professional Christian counselor) for guidance.
Proverbs 12:15
The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise man listens to advice.
While we like to feel in control as humans, we also believe as Christians that the way to the truth is through Christ. Working with a Christian counselor can help you nurture your relationship with the Holy Spirit and follow the light.
Proverbs 12:18
Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Counselors can serve as a trusted spiritual guide that can call you toward all the truth you're seeking through God. Therapy sessions provide you with a dedicated space to reflect and turn toward God for help.
Proverbs 19:20
Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end, you will be counted among the wise.
The Word of God encourages us to be humble and accept instruction from others. We don't know everything, and we're not meant to. Seeking spiritual guidance from a counselor can help us see what our own eyes may be blind to.
Myths about faith and mental health
Many Christians face stigma in seeking mental health care. Harmful myths keep members of the Christian community from getting the support they need. In reality, our emotional well-being is closely tied to our spiritual health, and I believe that blending faith and mental health support can be a beautiful thing.
Here, I break down some common myths about religion and therapy so you can feel empowered to seek counseling if you're feeling called to it.
Myth: Mental health issues are a result of personal sin or spiritual weakness.
Going through a struggle—including a mental health-related struggle—isn't your fault. We know that as people, we're bound to face trials and tribulations. It's a condition of being a human. While the Bible teaches us to acknowledge our limitations, it also encourages us to seek out the Lord in our times of struggle. Christian counseling can help you do just that.
Myth: Praying can solve your mental health problems.
God wouldn't want you to forgo medical treatment if you were sick. The same goes for mental health care. God can send his divine love and healing through the powerful tool of therapy. Counseling is a gift He has given us to help us grow closer to Him.
Myth: Seeking therapy means that I don't have faith in God.
Using a tool that God has given us shows your divine trust in him. By incorporating your faith principles into your work in therapy, you put your relationship with God at the forefront while also getting the professional mental health support you need to feel better.
Benefits of seeking Christian counseling
Interested in giving Christian counseling a try? Here's what you can gain. Check out my blog post on what Christian counseling is (and why it's important) for even more information.
Get support from someone who understands your values
Even if you're already connected to a Church community, getting specialized one-on-one time with another Christian can be a valuable part of your spiritual growth. Plus, many Christian counselors (including myself) are also licensed mental health clinicians, which ensures that you're getting expert support.
Improve your relationship with God
Working with a Christian counselor isn't just about building your relationship with another Christian. It also serves to bring you closer to God. Having this sacred time to connect with the Holy Spirit can help you feel more connected to the divine than ever before.
Get spiritual clarity
Are you struggling with your faith? Christian counseling can also be a space where you reflect on your spiritual blockages and rekindle your relationship with God.
Christian counseling can help you find both spiritual and emotional healing
As both a Christian and a licensed marriage and family therapist, I enjoy helping my clients find both spiritual growth and emotional healing through therapy. Though I'm based in Austin, virtual sessions allow me to help people throughout the state of Texas, as well as in California.
We can incorporate your religion as much (or as little) as you'd like during our work together, which may include checking it at the door if that's what you prefer. Please know that I'm also eager to support clients of all different faith backgrounds.
If you're interested in learning more about my approach to Christian counseling and whether my services are the right fit for you, I encourage you to reach out. I look forward to hearing from you and hopefully supporting you on your journey forward!
