Biblical and Christian Counseling in 95623: El Dorado, CA.

Our daily struggles are opportunities for emotional and spiritual growth. They are literally faith builders. When situations get too uncomfortable, one either reacts or escapes, or does both. Some times these daily trials can become too large to navigate alone. I find great joy in assisting people during trying times back into a healthier and happier life. I have a warm and non-judgmental approach that provides an opportunity to address both short and long term goals, crisis situations, and long-term underlying issues. I help my clients explore their past and how it is showing up in their present. “…be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” ~(NIV) 2 Chronicles 15:7

Although I am not a strictly biblically based therapist, I am deeply steeped in Christian, Jewish & Buddhist traditions. My personal life is deeply contemplative and guided by a spiritually passionate commitment to aligning myself with the G-D within and who holds us in spiritual unity. I am fluent in many traditions but was raised Christian with strong faith as a core abiding principle in our home life. I carry this forward today and am committed to helping myself and others evolve spiritually. For Christian couples who seek counseling, and wonder how the Gottman Method works with their faith, I use the Biblical Reference Guide to help support the spiritual application of this method.

As a Christian, I value and appreciate people's faith and will work with you with that in mind. Prayer for our troubles is important; but just as if you had a broken bone, you would go to a medical doctor, when you have relationship, psychological, or emotional problems, you seek help from a professional counselor. I work with individuals who want to really know their true value in Christ but have had life experiences that have led them to believe something different. I also work with couples who, although both have their faith, still need relationship and communication skills, need to learn to negotiate their differences and build love and respect in their relationship.

Large numbers of studies indicate that practicing a mainstream faith confers significant health benefits, especially mental health benefits, and that people who use “religious coping” (i.e. prayer, confession, seeking strength and comfort from God) adjust better to stressful events. Additionally, for some people, knowing that their therapist shares their faith and core values can provide a sense of security and comfort as they walk together through important life decisions. At our counseling center we want you to know that our therapists are perfectly willing to address and integrate issues of faith into your therapy.

In Christian life, the goal is to become more real; more fully all you were created to be in relationship to God and to other people. I will help you access all that is available to you in the Christian faith that can help you in your journey and relationships. Whether you struggle with faith itself, trauma, relational conflict, or other life issues, I provide a safe environment for you to struggle and be authentic without fear of judgement. I also support you in maintaining your autonomy and freedom of choice in your decisions. I draw on the wealth of psychological knowledge in the Christian faith and in psychology and science to help you become a healthier, more fulfilled relational being.

Yes, I do practice Christian counseling and I use biblical references when the clients are Christians or want to know what the Bible says. Counseling is about treating yourself and others in a loving way. That fits beautifully with the Bible's teaching. I have studied and taught the Bible for many years, been a Director of Women's Ministries and taught at a Christian college. If you have questions please call me.