Christian counseling, often called Biblical or pastoral counseling, focuses on using an understanding of Scriptural knowledge and a Christ-centered perspective to help people live more fully as Christians in God’s image. Christian counseling is distinct from state-licensed mental health, addiction, behavioral or marital counseling, though it can certainly address many of the same issues and supplement that type of counseling with a spiritual perspective.
It can take place within a church, at a denominational health and human services agency, or at Christian schools and counseling centers. Drawing on a Biblical worldview following Christ’s example, Christian counseling is shown to improve relationships, parenting, health, and career satisfaction, bringing about a greater sense of happiness and contentment.