Christian Counseling in Massachusetts
Christian Counselors in Eastern Massachusetts and Greater Boston
Interview with Greg Handel, PhD
Are you looking for faith-based and psychological principles to guide you on your mental health journey?
At Handel Behavioral Health, our team of Christian counselors provide faith-based counseling in Massachusetts.
Our Christian counselors offer a counseling approach rooted in biblical principles, faith traditions, and evidence-based therapeutic modalities to help you navigate spiritual concerns, everyday struggles, and mental health difficulties’ through a Christian perspective.
If you hold Christian beliefs and if Christian faith plays an important role in your life, you may seek a Christian counselor to gain spiritual enrichment, strengthen your relationship with God, and address any mental health challenges and life concerns you’re experiencing.
We sat down with Greg Handel, PhD and President of Handel Behavioral Health to learn more about Christian Counseling. Greg is one of several licensed professionals with Handel Behavioral Health who offers faith-based counseling for individuals, families, and couples in Massachusetts.
To start working with one of our experienced and compassionate Christian counselors online in Massachusetts or in-person from our Amherst, Franklin, West Springfield, Wilbraham, or Natick offices, contact us today at (413) 343-4357 or request an appointment online.
To learn more about Christian counseling, please read on.
What is Christian Counseling?
Christian counseling integrates bible teachings and faith traditions in the therapeutic process to help individuals improve their mental health from a biblically-informed perspective.
“Typically in Christian counseling, the therapist uses the Bible as the basis for the therapeutic process. The Bible offers a lot of information about perception, emotions, thoughts and behavior, which are the four major areas of psychology practice,” says Greg Handel, PhD.
“Christian counseling may also simply be counseling conducted by a Chrstian, usually requested by a client who is a Christian. In this model, the christian counselor may use the same techniques and/or methodology as a secular counselor but the client knows that their faith will be used in the therapeutic process,” adds Greg.
How Does Christian Counseling Differ From Traditional Talk Therapy?
Christian counselors are trained in the same evidence-based techniques as traditional talk therapists, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, among many others.
However, Christian counselors focus on the navigation of spiritual concerns, everyday struggles, and mental health difficulties’ through the lens of a Christian worldview.
Mental Health Conditions and Life Challenges Christian Counseling Can Address:
Our Christian counselors are here to help you navigate and heal from the following mental health conditions and life challenges:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Stress from life transitions
- Grief and loss
- Anger and Irritability
- Eating Disorders
- Addictions and Substance Use Disorders
- Hopelessness
- Burnout
- Mood swings
- Trauma
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
- Chronic Pain
What Role Does Christian Faith Play in Mental Health Counseling?
Many people identify as somewhat or strongly religious, as a result, their emotional and psychological wellbeing can be closely tied with their faith. You may find that religion has a positive effect on your life, offering a sense of purpose, creating a sense of community, and encouraging values like forgiveness and compassion.
Our Christian counselors will draw on these principles within the therapeutic process, using them to help clients identify the values most important to their wellbeing. If you’re struggling with your faith, our Christian counselors will help you navigate your questions and concerns to better understand the role that religion has on your life.
What are the Benefits of Christian Counseling?
- A holistic approach to healing: Christian counselors provide a holistic approach to healing that recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. You will discover the connection between psychological, emotional, and spiritual concerns in your everyday life, helping you build strength and resilience from the inside.
- Faith-based guidance: Christian counselors are well-versed in Scripture and can provide guidance rooted in Christian values and beliefs. You will discover personal growth rooted in spiritual convictions.
- Addressing spiritual concerns: Christian counselors understand the connection between spiritual questions and concerns with psychological wellbeing. They will offer you guidance on topics like forgiveness, purpose, and meaning in everyday life.
- Confidentiality and trust: Like all professional counselors, Christian counselors adhere to confidentiality guidelines, allowing you to share your concerns and experiences without judgment. You will find a safe and supportive space to discuss challenges and seek guidance without reservation.
- Empowerment and growth: Our Christian counselors are here to help you foster personal growth, resilience, and a deeper connection with faith. You will develop effective coping strategies, find inner strength, and cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in your life.
Start Working With a Christian Counselor in Massachusetts Today:
At Handel Behavioral Health, our team of Christian counselors understand that faith plays an important role in many people’s lives and can serve as a powerful source of healing, strength, and resilience.
Our Christian counselors in Massachusetts are here to help you navigate life’s challenges and find greater meaning in your life.
To start working with one of our Christian counselors online in Massachusetts or in-person from our Amherst, Franklin, West Springfield, Wilbraham, or Natick offices, contact us today at (413) 343-4357 or request an appointment online.
About The Author
Nettie Hoagland
