Has your light become dimmer over the years? Are you struggling to find your true path and calling? Do you wish for guidance from a trained professional who will understand and respect that your number one priority is building a relationship with God? If so, you are definitely not alone.
More and more of our clients throughout the Weldon Spring, Missouri, area are looking for faith-based counseling that can heal the mind and the soul. They want to be able to not only discuss the issues they are having but also openly discuss God, the Bible, and their belief in the power of prayer. At Bizelli Counseling Group, you’ll find options across the spectrum. Seeking Christian counseling that integrates your relationship with Christ into your healing journey? We’re here for you. Are you a generally open-minded individual who wants to explore the intersection of spirituality and mental health? Our practice is a safe space for you, too.
The Value of Faith-Based Counseling
People prefer to seek guidance from those who support, rather than challenge, their faith. In fact, according to a nationwide survey by the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC, now APCE), 83% of Americans believe their spiritual faith and religious beliefs are closely tied to their state of mental and emotional health. Three-quarters have stated it's important for them to work with a therapist who integrates their values and beliefs into the counseling process. And more respondents said they would prefer to see a religious counselor (29%) than a typical psychiatrist (27%), psychologist (17%), or family doctor (13%).
Selecting the Right Faith-Based Counselor
Just as no two people are alike, no two faith-based counselors are alike either. They will differ on a few different things:
How much religious training (if any) they have had.
How much religion is incorporated into their practice.
The populations they serve.
Their psychological expertise.
Beyond this, some faith-based therapists aim to holistically integrate the mind, body, and spirit of people of all faiths, while others focus solely on applying scripture to modern-day problems instead of social sciences. You will also find that some faith-based counselors will be licensed by the state, and some will not. The reason for this is a state license prohibits a therapist from imposing personal beliefs onto clients. But a Christian faith-based counselor is free to speak openly and candidly about his or her faith with the client. And, while state-licensed mental health professionals are well trained in emotional counseling, they aren’t necessarily trained to help heal on a spiritual level. That’s where we come in.
Bringing Faith Into the Therapeutic Process
For many people, faith shapes how they understand themselves, their relationships, and the challenges they encounter. However, faith-based counseling does not have to mean choosing between spiritual guidance and established therapy methods. Christian counseling at Bizelli Counseling Group creates space for those beliefs within the therapeutic process rather than treating them as separate from emotional wellness. A therapist from our team can:
Incorporate Christian values and biblical principles alongside established therapy techniques Help you explore concerns from a perspective that reflects what matters most to you
Personalize sessions according to your needs, comfort level, and the role you want your faith to have in therapy
You don't need to be experiencing a crisis to benefit! Individuals, couples, and families may seek support through Christian counseling for anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relationship difficulties, family conflict, major transitions, or questions involving purpose and identity. Working with a Christian counselor provides an opportunity to discuss both psychological and spiritual concerns in an environment where your faith is understood and respected.
The Next Steps
Faith-based counseling can provide support through difficult seasons while encouraging personal reflection, emotional growth, and a deeper connection with your beliefs. Like any mental health journey, though, you need the right provider. It’s a good idea to start the process by doing some research and finding local faith-based counselors in your area. Get on the phone with them and ask some questions. The most important thing is whether or not you feel comfortable talking with them. If you or someone you love is interested in exploring faith-based treatment, turn to Bizelli Counseling Group in Weldon Spring. Our team serves clients throughout St. Charles County, including O'Fallon, St. Peters, and Wentzville, as well as Chesterfield in St. Louis County. Here, all faiths are welcome. Give us a call today to learn more!