Practical ways to choose a counselor

We are a needy people. We have numerous areas of our lives that need touching – not a one of us withstanding. Sometimes those needs are deeper than others. There are times when we need more focused help in an area (or areas) of our lives where we seem to get stuck. So where do we turn? 
 
Virtually every week I hear of someone who is either receiving or needing to get counseling or therapy. That is not an easy decision, and it is an important one. Proverbs 20:5 says, “Counsel in a person’s heart is deep water; but a person of understanding draws it out.” Your counselor matters! Where we turn for that help matters. And there are many places we can turn. I also hear a number of people who look for Christian counseling – which is good. But I would caution that not all counseling is the same – even so-called “Christian counseling”. In fact, I have had the hair on the back of my neck stand on end numerous times when people have described the counsel from their “Christian” counselor, it is sometimes terrible counsel!
 
I want to pass along a guide I was introduced to that offers a number of questions to ask when pursuing a counselor. (The full guide is available HERE.)
 
Ask your prospective counselor these kinds of questions before you start:
 
1. How would you describe your approach to counseling? How do you understand people's problems? How do you help them grow and change through counseling? Please describe the process.
 
2. What books or other resources do you recommend on a regular basis? What books have most influenced your approach to counseling?
 
3. Are you a Christian? How does your faith affect your view and practice of counseling?
 
4. Do you bring Christian truth into your counseling practice? How? What role does Scripture play?
 
5. Do you pray with those you counsel?
 
6. Do you attend church? If so, where? How long have you been a member?
 
7. What is your educational and professional background? What role does it play?
 
8. Are you married? Do you have children? Have you ever been divorced? How does your marriage and family situation affect how you counsel people?
 
Pretty practical questions aren’t they? These are the kinds of questions that may help you identify a counselor that will best help you in the places you need. 
 
Of course we seek the Lord in the process – for He is the good Counselor, He knows what we need. 
 
Hopefully this helps you as you consider these weighty decisions. And do know, I would love to help you in the process –at a minimum to pray with you. So feel free to reach out.
 
Each of us can say, “I am needy, and I am needed.” With Christ we can encourage one another.
 
I hope to see you Sunday at one of the services.
 
Mega blessings,
Pastor John