I'm a licensed counselor and life coach. And, I had been in the ministry for years. With that said, my dilemma has always been what to say when someone asks me, “Are you a Christian counselor?” or "How do you describe your spirituality?" I think it's only fair to make an attempt to answer these questions for anyone who may want to hire me as their life coach and/or counselor.
Are you a Christian Counselor?
Some people prefer a Christian therapist. Even though I don’t promote or label myself as a Christian therapist, I've been hired by many Christians. After interviewing me, they know that I’ve been studying the Scriptures for years. They know that I believe Jesus is human and was a great prophet, and that I believe He is God and is alive and lives in me. Thus, I meet their qualifications as a Christian counselor. I’m glad! I love working with them!
Some people have been severely wounded by Christianity. The word Christianity or Christian or Bible or church or Jesus may produce a trauma response in the same way people who have been emotionally, physically or sexually harmed might experience if their abuser's name is spoken or if they see the perpetrator: tightness in the chest area and gut, anxiety, shakiness, feeling like passing out, etc. For years I have facilitated the healing of those who have been spiritually/religiously harmed and abused within Christianity. They hold a special place in my heart. After they interview me, they usually sense my empathy; I get it.
How would you describe your spirituality?
I'd sum it all up with: Spirituality is about relationship. Therefore, my spirituality is wrapped up in in the relationships I have with Jesus Christ . . . God, with myself, my family, my friends, my clients, acquaintences and even strangers.
Note:
. . . Many people hire me who don’t have any spiritual or religions concerns - or if they do, they don't want to address them with me. After they interview me, they know I will make no attempt to interfere with that.
. . . I don't want to push my own agenda no matter who I’m with or for whatever reason! To do so is unethlical, invalidating and invasive. It defeats the purpose of the counseling and coaching process.
This is the best I can do to answer the two questions: “Are you a Christian counselor?” or "How do you describe your spirituality? They are not easy to answer! Please give me a call if you need more clarification on this issue. And, I hope you find a life coach and/or therapist who encourages you to freely Live Your Design - you're worth it!
Pamela Merten - Director: Living Your Design Life Coaching & Counseling
Life Coach/licensed professional counselor with specialty authorization for drug and alcohol counseling
Phone and in-person sessions are available. (414) 430-3122