Biblical and Christian Counseling in 92618: Irvine, CA.

The greatest counselor anyone could ever have is our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I am a Christian therapist who will serve as God's assistant to help you embrace new behaviors designed to improve your emotional and psychological health. I do not provide traditional pastoral counseling. We will not pray or read the Bible in sessions. I will, however, work to help you become the best version of yourself so you in turn can reflect God's love in all you do and joyfully align yourself to His holy will for your life. Our shared Christian faith will provide a healing atmosphere of shared values and commonality of purpose.

In some churches, psychology is viewed as humanistic and leads people away from God. Conversely, psychological theorists viewed Christianity as harmful and results in psychopathology. As a Christian Psychologist, these views are rejected. Instead, a Christian psychologist understands the value of scripture and disciplines that encourage growth in a relationship with God. A relationship with Jesus is vital in helping a person struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health problems. The goal of Christian counseling is in helping a person to understanding the thoughts and emotions that can limit a person from thriving and encouraging growth in a relationship with God and others.

For many of us, our relationship with God is a primary part of our lives. During difficult times, God is an anchor and a comfort for some. For others, even if we have a relationship with God, He may seem distant or withholding. No matter where you are in this process, your faith story matters. God desires for us to be in relationship with others...and he knows the deep pain of broken relationships. Knowing that you will not be judged for your thoughts or actions, and having a counselor who supports your faith can lead to a deep emotional and spiritual healing.

All of my counseling is grounded in God's word - the Bible. The Bible verses that form the cornerstone of my approach to therapy are:. "For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." 2 Tim 1:7, and "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Phil 4:13.. All healing ultimately comes from God.and God wants the best for us - healing, love, joy and peace.

I'm able to integrate Christian spirituality into counseling and explore how your picture of God helps or hurts you. Your picture of God is often influenced by others. Christianity is valuable in finding forgiveness, removing shame and giving us hope for the future. I also respect your right to live consistently with your religious values and I support your marriage. I do not impose my beliefs, but try to understand the world through YOUR belief system. I have worked with people of ALL religions, including those that are very different from my own.

The presence of God in therapy can be experienced when there is a more direct and open dialogue. As we become more present to each other a sacred space is created. The "space between" where we meet each other and the possibility of the Divine presence. This healing presence has power to transform you and your circumstances. As the philosopher Martin Buber once said,"Religion is Presence."

Every therapist at La Vie is a Christian and many of our therapists have advanced degrees in Theology and have spent years integrating the best of psychological research with sound Christian principles. We affirm the importance of faith in living healthy lives and welcome open conversations about this in therapy. Our approach to counseling from a Christian perspective has been so well received that Dr. Baker's book, "Jesus the Greatest Therapist Who Ever Lived" has sold over a million copies worldwide.

I am a Christian and I am a psychologist. I do not separate these two identities, nor do I believe that you need to separate out your faith and spirituality from your present counseling needs and goals. In fact, I believe the values and beliefs that shape your worldview are integral in psychotherapy -- and I work to take this holistic approach in my therapeutic services. I earned my doctorate at a Christian university (Azusa Pacific University) and the integration of psychology and spirituality was a vital part of my training. I invite you to explore how your faith is impacting your current issues and challenges.

Some persons are concerned that couples counseling or psychotherapy may challenge their faith and they want to work with someone who supports, understands and even shares the importance of faith. Dr. Brainerd also holds a Masters degree in Christian Theology along with his doctorate in Clinical Psychology and not only values faith but can also help with persons who have found that sometime in their life, religion has hurt them.

Embark on a journey of holistic healing and spiritual awakening with a therapist who integrates spirituality into therapy. As a spiritual therapist, I honor the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, offering a sacred space for individuals to explore their innermost selves and connect with their divine essence. Through a blend of traditional therapeutic techniques and spiritual practices such as meditation, energy work, and mindfulness, I guide clients on a path of self-discovery, empowerment, and growth. Whether you're seeking guidance through life's challenges, healing from past wounds, or a deeper connection to your spiritual purpose, I am here to support you.

Are you in need of counseling from a Christian, Biblically based spiritual perspective? I hold a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fuller Theological Seminary and bring an extensive history of experience in spiritually and Biblically based healing ministry. With over twenty years of church ministry experience, I have a unique understanding of the needs of Christian families. I have served on prayer ministry and leadership discernment teams for a number of churches and Christian organizations. My desire is to partner with Jesus as He binds up the broken-hearted and sets the captives free to love (Luke 4:18).

Working with a higher power or a belief in a higher power can be a powerful tool in the therapeutic process. My approach to counseling incorporates an understanding and respect for the role that faith and spirituality may play in an individual's life. We will work together to explore how your beliefs can be integrated into the therapeutic process and utilized as a source of strength and guidance. Together, we will address the issues that bring you to counseling and develop a personalized plan to achieve your goals and improve your overall well-being. Whether you are seeking support for personal growth, coping with difficult life transitions, or healing from past trauma, I am here to provide