How to Find a Christian Counselor: 7 Questions to Ask
Medically reviewed by Valerie Bryan, PharmD
You've decided to get help. That's a brave, faith-filled step. Now comes the practical part: finding the right person. Here's how to find a Christian counselor who is both skilled and safe.
Why It's Worth the Search
“Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14). Good counsel is a gift from God. Finding a good fit may take a little effort, and that's okay.
Know the Types of Help
- Licensed therapists (such as LPCs, LMHCs, LMFTs, LCSWs and psychologists) have graduate training, state licenses and ongoing oversight. Many are Christians who integrate faith into their work.
- Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners can diagnose and prescribe medication. Many people see one of them for medication and a therapist for counseling.
- Pastoral and biblical counselors offer spiritual guidance and are often free or low-cost through churches. Training varies widely, and many aren't licensed, so they may not be the right fit for serious depression, trauma or other conditions.
Where to Look
- Ask your pastor or church staff who they trust.
- Ask your doctor for a referral.
- Check your insurance company's provider directory.
- Search online directories that let you filter for faith-based counselors, such as Psychology Today or the American Association of Christian Counselors.
7 Questions to Ask Before You Start
- Are you licensed, and in which state?
- How do you bring faith into counseling? Listen for respect, not pressure in either direction.
- Will you respect my beliefs if we disagree?
- What experience do you have with what I'm facing? (anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, marriage)
- What approach do you use? Ask about evidence-based methods like CBT.
- What does it cost? Do you take insurance or offer a sliding scale?
- What if we're not a good fit? A good counselor won't take it personally.
Red Flags
- Shaming you, or blaming your struggle on weak faith
- Promising a quick fix or guaranteed results
- Telling you to stop prescribed medication without your prescriber
- Crossing professional or personal boundaries
It's Okay to Switch
Research consistently shows that the relationship between you and your counselor matters a lot. If it doesn't feel right after a few sessions, it's okay to try someone else. That's wisdom, not failure. “Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out” (Proverbs 20:5). Keep looking for the person who can help draw it out.
A Prayer Before You Search
Lord, lead me to the right counselor. Give me courage to make the call, wisdom to recognize a good fit, and patience with the process. Heal me through the people You send. Amen.
Wear the Reminder
Sip some courage before that first appointment: our Faith Took Me Where My Mind Could Not mug.
Keep Reading
- 30 Bible Verses for Anxiety, and How to Actually Use Them
- Is Seeing a Therapist a Lack of Faith?
- Prayer and Therapy Aren't Rivals
Claimed in the Chaos
Your mind may be tired. Your faith may feel fragile. But you are still claimed.
For the first appointment and every one after: the Therapy Doesn't Cancel Faith Brighter Days Box.
If you're struggling right now: you don't have to carry this alone. In the U.S., call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) any time, day or night. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911. Outside the U.S., contact your local emergency number.
This article is for encouragement and education, not medical advice. Please talk with your doctor, pharmacist or a licensed counselor about your own situation.
