There is much research indicating that stress levels throughout the world are rising. Be it general financial worries, health concerns, grief or loss or a host of other problems, people are over worked and over stressed. One such remedy in alleviating such distress is mental health counseling.

Counseling comes in many forms. From the once popular psychoanalysis that was Fruedian based, to newer methods of experiential and cognitive therapies that are highly focused and short term in nature. Each and every method has their strengths and weaknesses. What's most important is tailoring the particular treatment to the client and his or her specific needs. We are all different, and utilizing the proper intervention for the client is considered truly the "art of therapy"

From a Christian perspective, this tailored therapy would involve incorporating not only biblical references, but transcripts from the life of Christ, and how he was able to cope with difficult times and difficult people. Effective counseling avoids focusing solely on inherent weaknesses and or deficiencies in the client. A good therapist will build upon the clients strengths, and christian couples counselor incorporate past resiliency and strategies that assisted the client in getting past difficult times before. Some of these strengths were spiritually based, and the client was able to draw upon past experiences of Christian focused prayer, along with associated meditation and reflection. Many Christian clients reported that "God was their support system", an anchor for them during the storms of life.

Christian counseling is unique in many ways. Approaching therapy with a non-judgmental and non-condemning way, a therapist is not only guided by the ethics of his or her discipline, but the ethics of Christ as well. Needing to conform to a "higher power"so to speak, and teaching the values of Christ (Love, Kindness, Forgiveness) places the Christian therapist in a unique position as a counselor, and one that demands the utmost of integrity.

Psychotherapists have many obstacles to deal with nowadays. From a scrutinizing healthcare system (insurance companies) to clients that are less then motivated, the challenges of becoming an effective counselor inhibits many from entering the profession, and accelerates the departure of those already dealing with pressures beyond their control. Christian counselors are not immune to the struggles of today's modern therapists. Fortunately, for many, building on their faith during these difficult times has not only kept many in the profession, but has provided them an opportunity to work with their clients in a more flexible and accommodating way.

Christian counseling can be a wonderful resource for those who are open to incorporating their Christianity into the healing process. Having additional spiritual support can not only provide an inner peace that many are lacking, but can give guidance and direction for many of life's troubling issues.