Counselling with Caroline

Welcome to Counselling with Caroline

There are times and circumstances in which we may feel, like the psalmist, Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is desolate. (Ps. 143:4 KJV) However, there are practical, godly steps that can be taken towards spiritual and mental recovery.  Biblical therapy assumes that the Lord God Almighty, who made us and the world in which we live, is able to help us, through Christ Jesus, the Word of Life, back to a better state of readiness to serve Him and continue on our earthly pilgrimage with renewed vigour and spiritual health.  A humble willingness to say, Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; (Ps. 143:10 KJV), can set us on the road to recovery of body, mind and spirit through the redemptive power of our gracious Lord God.

My approach utilises scriptural wisdom about human nature, behaviour, our best use and treatment of our bodies and seeks to foster a lively, loving and practical relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, our Saviour.

Many Christians have been led to believe that their issues are only 'medical' or 'physical' and that the Word of God has nothing useful to say to them about their issue.  Biblical counselling sees the whole person as an embodied soul, precious to God, whose needs in this world are bound up with their earthly pilgrimage and the loving purposes of God, their heavenly Father.

If you lack assurance about your salvation in Jesus Christ, have been dreadfully hurt or abused in the context of Church, are beset with a sin you can't seem to overcome, feel your spiritual life is empty or wonder about the purposes of God in your chronic condition, Biblical counselling can help.

What is Biblical Counselling?

Biblical counselling is a Christ-centred approach to addressing emotional, relational, and spiritual struggles using the wisdom and authority of Scripture. It focuses on the heart's root issues, offering hope and lasting transformation through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Unlike secular therapies, biblical counselling provides practical solutions aligned with God's design, helping individuals find peace, joy, and strength in His promises for life's challenges.

How does it differ from secular counselling?

Biblical counselling is fundamentally distinct from secular approaches in its foundation, goals, and methodology. While secular counselling often relies on humanistic theories and therapeutic techniques rooted in psychology, biblical counselling is grounded in the unchanging truth of God’s Word.

Foundation: Secular counselling typically views human struggles through the lens of psychology, emphasising self-actualisation, personal fulfilment, and behavioural adjustments. In contrast, biblical counselling sees Scripture as the ultimate authority on human nature, sin, and suffering, addressing the heart as the root of all struggles (Jeremiah 17:9).

Goal: The primary goal of secular counselling is often the alleviation of symptoms, improved coping strategies, or personal happiness. Biblical counselling, however, seeks deeper transformation—restoration of the individual’s relationship with God and growth in Christlikeness (Romans 8:29). While symptom relief is valued, the focus is on aligning thoughts, behaviours, and desires with God’s truth, experiencing the peace of God which passes understanding and a godly contentment whatever the circumstances.

Methodology: Secular counselling relies on techniques like cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, or behavioural modification, which can have a limited benefit. When we know and understand our Bibles well, we can see that all the most beneficial and scientifically supported therapies have their roots in Biblical wisdom. Biblical counselling integrates practical wisdom with theological insights, addressing issues like anxiety, depression, or relational conflicts through the lens of sin, redemption, and God’s promises. The counsellor prayerfully applies biblical principles, fostering dependence on Christ and the Holy Spirit for lasting change.

Ultimately, biblical counselling offers a hope that transcends human ability, pointing individuals to the gospel of Jesus Christ as the source of true peace and healing. This approach not only helps individuals navigate life’s challenges but also equips them to live faithfully in light of God’s sovereign purposes.