Biblical and Christian Counseling in 97148: Yamhill, OR.

I believe that spiritual beliefs can play an important part in the healing process. I follow the client's lead in bringing spirituality in the room. I am not a pastoral counselor, and do not consider myself a biblical counselor. However, I am Christian, familiar with the Bible, and am comfortable with bringing Christian beliefs into the room if that is what is best for the client.

You can trust that God knows you personally because He designed you exactly as you are! All healing and permanent change comes through Him. When you "confess your sins (brokenness, distress, mistakes) to each other and pray for each other you will be healed" James 5:16. As a pastoral counselor, I am uniquely qualified to walk this path with you. Religion is not the answer, only God is.

As a Christian, I place a high value on the written Word as well as the spirit that it was written in. I am not a theologian and will not pretend to be. I will, however, honor and respect the tenants of Christianity and be very sensitive to your Faith as you see it. I believe in prayer and respect and honor what that means to you as an individual without judgement.

Faith and spirituality can provide comfort and meaning to those guided by their beliefs. I was raised in a Christian household myself so I have an appreciation for the values instilled by religion, the importance of tradition, and the strength of community. My approach to counseling is humanistic and welcoming of all spiritualities. Though I do not incorporate any specific pastoral counsel, I encourage my spiritual clients to draw on their beliefs during the counseling process.

As a general rule, both Christian counseling and secular counseling share the same desire to help people overcome their problems, find meaning and joy in life, and become healthy and well-adjusted individuals, both mentally and emotionally. Most counselors have graduate degrees and have spent years learning their craft. The word "counseling" can have multiple meanings, including offering advice and encouragement, sharing wisdom and skills, setting goals, resolving conflict, etc. Counselors usually probe the past (whether the problem happened a week ago or during childhood) in an attempt to repair the present.

I was a family pastor for 20 years. I have since deconstructed and reconstructed my faith. I now identify as a progressive follower of the teachings of Jesus. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and supportive of people who are on their own spiritual journey. I will respect your beliefs and values and convictions. I will not impose my own biases on you. I am comfortable incorporating scripture or prayer in ways that are helpful for you.