Psychology & Spirituality
Are you looking for counseling that respects your faith?
For people of faith, mental health and spiritual health are closely intertwined. Indeed, studies show that religious belief is associated with individual well-being, prosocial behavior, emotional resilience, and other positive mental health outcomes. Yet, for much of modern history, the study of psychology has appeared to be at odds with – and even in opposition to – religious faith.
This does not need to be the case.
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As a person who values religious, academic, and experiential knowledge, I've spent my career looking at ways to understand, bridge, and weigh what I learn from psychology with what I learn from faith. Rather than being in competition, the two provide two complementary perspectives through which to perceive and interpret the world:
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My faith keeps me grounded, gives me a positive outlook on life, instills in me the value of human dignity and individual potential, and gives me hope for people to change, grow, and progress in life.
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My training gives me tested tools, knowledge, and language to model psychological processes, identify healthy versus unhealthy behaviors, address significant mental and emotional health issues, and help people find workable solutions to problems of the human condition.
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Psychology and spirituality share many of the same concerns:
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Finding purpose in suffering and finding ways to alleviate it.
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Making meaning in our lives.
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Coping with grief, loss, pain, and disappointment.
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Looking for greater happiness, peace, and health.
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Having – and exercise – free will.
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Living a good life.
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Having a sense of identity.
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Respecting human dignity.
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Identifying values.
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Forming lasting relationships.
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Finding purpose.
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Navigating an ethical and moral life.
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Learning resilience.
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Changing and becoming.
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Achieving forgiveness.
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And more.
Unfortunately, many in the field of psychology approach faith as outsiders or even antagonists. Few have training or experience in religious cultures, beliefs, and practices. At the same time, many people of faith avoid counseling for fear that their deeply-held spiritual beliefs, practices, and experiences will not be respected, understood, or taken seriously. Or worse, that their faith will be discouraged, undermined, or damaged by therapy.
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I have had a lifelong interest in, and respect for, different cultures and religions, including taking courses in psychology and spirituality, world religions, and scripture. Personally, I have had the privilege of associating with and learning from friends, colleagues, and clients from a variety of nationalities, cultures, and faiths. I have a commitment to human dignity and religious freedom for people of all faiths – including those who profess no religion at all – and strive to create an environment where it is safe to speak of the things of the soul, and find healing in the process.
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I invite you to bring your whole self to counseling. Even if we do not share the same faith, know that your beliefs and experiences will be respected. Together, we can draw from your cultural, religious, and spiritual wisdom and strength to help you overcome your current challenges and live a life consistent with your values.
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