What picture do you create in your mind when you imagine Christian counseling services?

Close your eyes. What do you see?

Do you see a pastor sitting across a desk from you, holding a Bible open to a passage and sharing his thoughts on how it applies to your situation?

Or do you imagine a man or woman in an office seated next to you like Bob Newhart on The Bob Newhart television show?

Christian counseling services can be like either scenario. It all depends on the counselor.

Pastor or Trained Therapist

Many Christian counselors are both pastors and therapists. They may be ordained ministers who have received additional training or certification in psychotherapy and traditional counseling methods. Or they may be counselors who rely upon the Lord to bring insight and healing, but who are not ordained in any particular denomination.

Which is right for you? Choosing a therapist is a highly personal matter. You want to find someone you connect with, first and foremost, someone you feel comfortable with and can trust. If you’re not comfortable speaking to the therapist, chances are he or she may not be able to help you.

A good Christian therapist provides you with a feeling of safety so that you can explore your emotions. He or she helps you understand God’s plan.  Christian counseling can help people with myriad problems ranging from depression to substance abuse, but it has to be based in sound Biblical principles or else it just becomes traditional counseling or therapy. There’s nothing wrong with that, but it’s not Christian counseling per se.

God Has a Plan for Your Life – and It’s Good!

One thing that distinguishes Christian counselors from other types of counselors is the focus on the Lord and his desire that we live whole, healthy lives.  Christian counselors look to the Bible for guidance on how our lives should unfold, and pray for understanding and wisdom so that their clients can achieve peace and resolve their problems. While traditional therapists do not invite God in, a Christian counselor won’t ask God to leave! It’s that simple, but that complex. But it works for believers, and it can work for you, too.

Christian counseling combines the healing power of prayer and belief with the wisdom of traditional therapy.  Dr. Douglas Frey of Home Heart Counseling offers services for individuals and couples seeking help with their problems. Please call 952-920-2789 for an appointment.  The office is located in Eden Prairie, and is easily accessible to Chanhassen, Chaska, Shakopee, Minneapolis and other Western Suburbs.