Be Counseled Biblically

Understanding Biblical Christian Counseling

You seek a doctor for physical illness; therefore, seek a Christian counselor for mental, emotional, and behavioral issues. Biblical counsel offers profound wisdom—do not neglect it.

The Gap Between Psychology and Christian Counseling

In a world saturated with mental health resources, the search for a counselor who truly integrates faith and clinical expertise can be challenging. Many Christians seek help to navigate a landscape where spiritual needs are often overlooked or minimized.

Jane Perkins identified this gap, which resulted in her opening Are You Ready Counseling, LLC. She recognized the need for counselors who acknowledge and integrate biblical principles in therapy. Christians are underserved in the counseling profession. Providing true Biblical counsel to those seeking holistic care truly honors Christians as it acknowledges that we all possess a mind, body, and spirit that needs attending with God’s assistance. Biblical Christian counseling answers this need.

Secular psychology, despite its value, disregards this crucial dimension, hindering complete healing for those rooted in faith.

Seeking out a counselor is a sign of strength instead of weakness. (Proverbs 11:14)

Refer to this Blog Article to hear more about Jane’s Testimony: “What is Biblical Counseling”

To read Jane’s and Are You Ready’s Statement of Faith

I’ve Had a Christian Counselor: What’s the Difference?

– A Matter of Foundational Principles

It’s confusing. “Christian counselor,” “biblical counselor,” and “faith-based counselor” often mean different things. You must do your research to find the right fit. The core beliefs behind each title vary greatly.

• Biblical Counselors:

  • Their training varies. Some have a bachelor’s degree. Some have a master’s from a Christian school. Others have certificates from groups like ACBC or CCEF.  
  • They often lack formal psychology training.  
  • Insurance usually doesn’t cover them. Insurance views this as a “religious practice,” not medical treatment.
  • They rely heavily on the Bible for guidance. 
  • They focus on spiritual change and living by biblical rules.

• Christian Counselors:

  • The minimum educational requirement for licensure is a master’s degree in counseling psychology, clinical mental health counseling, or a related field.  
  • They are open to discussing your Christian beliefs. Despite this, faith is not considered enough, and you can expect psychological principles to be the leading force that drives the session. Some see a balance between clinical expertise and faith as valuable.
  • Usually values a holistic approach. Meaning they understand healing includes both mind and spirit.

• Faith-Based Counselors (Not Always Christian):

  • May focus on a specific faith (e.g., Christianity) or encompass various faith traditions, attempting to create an inclusive environment.
  • They use your faith in therapy, based upon your interpretation, but their beliefs can differ.
  • Careful research is required to determine their faith perspective and how it influences their counseling approach.

• Christian Counselors who Counsel Biblically

  • The minimum educational requirement for licensure is a master’s degree in counseling psychology, clinical mental health counseling, or a related field.
  • They are dedicated Christians who value and apply God’s Word personally to their lives. (They know the Bible and, therefore, can apply it to life’s problems.)
  • They are dedicated Christians who use the Bible as their primary guide.
  • They are part of a Christian community.
  • They may use therapy methods but avoid beliefs that go against the Bible.
  • They focus on healing and change.
  • They use biblical teachings in sessions, looking at root problems and offering faith-based solutions.  
  • They understand that people have a spiritual side, and mental struggles often connect to spiritual issues.
  • They use the Bible as their guide, helping you live by its principles.
     

Scripture helps us understand who we are, our purpose, our relationship with God, and how to deal with life’s challenges. (Proverbs 2:6)

Biblical Christian Counseling: Active Application of Scripture

As Christians, we eagerly anticipate God’s presence when we invite Him into our troubles and trials. (Isaiah 30:18)

God designed you for connection; He did not create you to go through life alone. (Hebrews 10:24-25)

God utilizes anything that overwhelms you or affects your coping ability; He incorporates it into your spiritual journey. (Romans 8:27-28)

Biblical counseling addresses root causes, providing holistic healing, and guides you through emotional, mental, behavioral, and relational issues. (Matthew 15:18-20)

Biblical counseling examines your character and targets areas needing change.

Your identity and relationships directly influence your thoughts and responses to life events; your ability to change depends on whom you belong to. (Romans 14:7-8 & Ephesians 2:19)

See Blog Article: “Walking Through Grief God’s Way”

Find Healing: Online Christian Biblical Counseling for Your Needs

• Anxiety and Fear: Helping to find peace and security in God’s promises.
• Compulsive Behavior: The pain of dealing with the fear that an OCD trigger requires a multifaceted approach that includes trusting in God’s sovereignty.
• Depression: Offering comfort and guidance in times of sorrow and despair.
• Grief and Loss: You wait for the relief of waking, but it never comes. The loss and the absence ache, taking your breath away. Your heart shatters. Christian grief support provides biblical perspectives on mourning and finding hope.
• Relationship Issues: Addressing conflict and promoting reconciliation through biblical principles.
• Addictions: Seeking freedom from destructive behaviors and finding strength in Christ.
• Spiritual Struggles: Assisting with doubts, questions of faith, and finding deeper connection with God.
• Anger Management: Helping to control anger and find healthy ways to express emotion.
• Trauma: Helping individuals to process and heal from past traumatic experiences.

Healing Happens When You Invite God into the Pain.

Why Choose Are You Ready Counseling?

• Authentic Biblical Approach: Grounded in the inerrant Word of God, not just humanistic theories.
• Experienced Professional: 27 years of licensed counseling experience, combining clinical expertise with biblical wisdom.
• Holistic Healing: Addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—for lasting transformation.
• Specialized Care: Focusing on anxiety, panic, compulsions, and complex grief, providing targeted support.
• Personalized Attention: Offering a free 20-minute consultation to ensure a comfortable and informed decision.
• God-Directed Therapy: Guided by God’s wisdom and guidance, recognizing His sovereignty in the healing process.

Take the First Step: A Free 20-Minute Consultation

If you’re seeking a counselor who understands your faith and provides professional guidance rooted in biblical principles, contact Jane Perkins for a free 20-minute consultation. Discover how Are You Ready Counseling can help you find lasting peace, healing, and restoration through faith-based, biblical Christian counseling.

I am Ready to Begin CounselingI still have Questions I want to explore more

  (417) 448-0144.