Biblical Counselling
Biblical Counselling looks to the wisdom and teaching of the Triune God as delivered to us through the Word of God, the Bible. Acknowledging that the one who made us and sustains us day by day, knows best how to help us when we are in desperate need, Biblical Counselling looks 'up' rather than 'in', to the resources of the divine, infinite God, rather than the depleted 'will power' of broken and hurting humans.
Biblical Counselling is not about a counsellor listing your sins and telling you to repent (although often we are brought to recognise areas for repentance by the Lord Himself), but rather, it is a process of opening aspects of your life in front of us and looking to see where Biblical light can bring release, freedom, comfort and help in going forward.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.
Biblical Counselling is about examining our lives in the light of the scriptures. Under the spotlight of God's Word, we can often find where we have gone adrift, where gaps in our scriptural knowledge have left us vulnerable or where we have tried to 'go it alone' without God.
Often we realise that we have been living in practical independence, in our own strength, doing things intuitively which do not seem wrong (because everyone else is doing it that way), but which have led us into difficulties or which have left us wondering where God and our faith comes in for our help and comfort.
Biblical Counselling is, essentially, looking at how our relationship with God is functioning and where it could be improved. The fruit of a healthy relationship with God is a healthier relationship with others and a better approach to life in general. We would hope to go forward with a 'lively hope':
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (1 Peter 1:3)
"Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1
My name is Caroline and I'm glad you're here. I have been involved in Christian and Biblical counselling since 2007, and working with clients since then. The Word of the Lord is sufficient for wisdom and to meet the needs of God's people. Help to apply that word in individual cases is what I seek to supply by God's grace and enabling.
Professional Development
Academic Qualifications
- 2010 Level 4 Diploma in Christian Counselling (Accredited by the Association of Christian Counsellors and the Open College Network)
- 2008 Level 3 Christian Counselling (ACC & CPCAB)
- 2007 Level 2 Christian Counselling (ACC & CPCAB)
- Post Graduate Certificate in Education (Bishop Grosseteste, Lincoln)
- BA Hons Theology and Religious Studies, Inc. Medical & Behavioural Ethics (Bristol University)
Personal experience
I grew up attending the Church of England and became a Lay Reader in my local church at 18. I was converted from religion to faith at 21, after having gone astray into Ecumenism and Liberalism. The Lord graciously showed me my sin and the error of my ways and I became a Bible believing Christian.
I have been married to my lovely husband Jeremy since 1995. We have not been blessed with children but have been blessed with peace about not having them. Our church journey has brought us to a Reformed position.
I began my working career as a primary school teacher and progressed to the post of assistant head. I then took several years out in order to learn to cope with Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and ruptured disks in my cervical spine. Through this, the Lord taught me patience and to wait on Him for His plans for my life, rather than charging ahead in my own strength! I have spent much time doing part-time church administration, working in Sunday schools, building websites and training to be a counsellor.
I have been counselling professionally since 2008 and have over 3000 hours counselling with people from all walks of life, with all kinds of issues.
Statement on My Qualifications and Professional Standing
I am deeply committed to providing the highest standard of care and expertise in my counselling practice. With a strong foundation in counselling qualifications, years of experience in addressing complex and long-term therapy needs, and extensive Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in evidence-based approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I offer a level of professionalism and competence equivalent to that of a psychotherapist.
It is important to note that the terms counsellor and psychotherapist are not legally protected titles in the United Kingdom. Both terms describe professionals trained to support individuals in managing emotional, psychological, and relational challenges. My qualifications and experience affirm my right to be regarded in the same light as a psychotherapist, as I bring both academic rigour and practical expertise to my work.
In the past, I have been listed on an Accredited Register and have been a member in good standing of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the Association of Christian Counsellors (ACC). These memberships reflected my commitment to professional standards and accountability. However, I have chosen to voluntarily withdraw from these organisations because their requirements have, at times, conflicted with my biblical ethics and the uncompromising standard of God’s Word.
My approach to counselling is rooted in integrity, compassion, and a steadfast dedication to helping individuals grow and heal in a way that aligns with God’s design for humanity. This commitment ensures that every client receives not only competent and professional care but also counsel that is faithful to Scripture and the hope of the gospel.
I am confident that my qualifications, experience, and ethical convictions equip me to offer effective, compassionate, and biblically grounded care, meeting or exceeding the standards expected of those in the field of psychotherapy. My practice reflects not only professional competence but also a profound commitment to God’s truth and the well-being of those I serve.
Therapy Approaches
Biblical That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (1 John. 1:1)
Mindful Be ye mindful always of his covenant; the word which he commanded to a thousand generations; (1 Chronicles. 16:15)
Acceptance & Commitment
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (John. 8:32)
Renewing the Mind And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans. 12:2)
My Ethics Statement for Counselling Practice
At Counselling with Caroline, I am committed to offering counselling that is firmly grounded in the teachings of the Bible and the principles of the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith. My desire is to glorify God through this ministry by providing compassionate care and guiding each individual to find hope, healing, and restoration in Christ.
1. Biblical Foundation
I believe the Bible is the inspired, inerrant, and sufficient Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16–17). It serves as the ultimate authority and guide for all matters of life and godliness, including counselling. In every session, I prayerfully rely on Scripture to understand human struggles and to provide solutions rooted in God’s truth.
2. Christ-Centred Care
I am convinced that true healing and transformation come through the redeeming work of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). My goal in every session is to direct individuals to the gospel and biblical wisdom as the ultimate source of hope and as the means by which lives are restored, relationships reconciled, and anxieties stilled.
3. Compassion and Dignity
As we are all created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), I approach every person with respect, dignity, and compassion, regardless of their background or circumstances. I aim to reflect Christ’s love by creating a safe, non-judgmental, and grace-filled environment where burdens can be shared openly.
4. Confidentiality and Trust
Confidentiality is a sacred trust in my practice. I strictly adhere to biblical principles and legal requirements to safeguard personal information. Exceptions occur only when required by law or when there is a risk of harm to the individual or others, in line with both Scripture (Proverbs 11:13) and legal obligations.
5. Holistic Understanding of Human Struggles
I recognise that sin, suffering, and the brokenness of this fallen world are at the root of many human struggles (Genesis 3; Romans 8:22). While I value insights from medical and psychological fields, I believe spiritual renewal through Christ and the Word of God is central to addressing the whole person—mind, body, and soul.
6. Accountability, Supervision, and Excellence
I am committed to maintaining the highest standards of biblical integrity, professional conduct, and ethical care, as outlined in the
1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith. I regularly meet with my supervisor for professional supervision, ensuring that I am held accountable and continually growing in my practice. This oversight enables me to provide care that honours God and serves my clients with wisdom and humility.
7. Non-Negotiable Principles
I adhere to clear biblical commands, including the sanctity of life, the honouring of marriage, and the call to repentance and faith in Christ (Exodus 20:13; Hebrews 13:4; Mark 1:15). While I lovingly uphold these truths, I provide counselling in a compassionate manner, particularly for those seeking repentance and restoration.
8. Encouragement Toward Sanctification
I encourage each client to pursue holiness and growth in Christlikeness through the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:29; Philippians 1:6). I view counselling as part of discipleship, helping individuals live faithfully under God’s providence and promises.
9. Dependence on God’s Grace
I acknowledge my dependence on God for wisdom, humility, and strength in this ministry (James 1:5). I trust Him to bring lasting transformation and healing to the hearts of those I serve.
