After months of counseling, Maria still felt that something was missing.
Her counselor seemed knowledgeable, but whenever she mentioned prayer or her struggles with her faith, there was an awkward pause, and the conversation turned to “evidence-based treatment.” Eventually, she found herself wondering — is there a place where her faith and mental health needs could be addressed together?
Maria’s story is not unique.
More Catholics are realizing they want their faith to be part of the healing process — not something left at the door of the counseling office. The good news is that you don’t have to choose between your mental health and your faith. In my practice as a licensed professional counselor, I’ve seen a growing number of people seeking a faith-based approach — one that integrates sound clinical practice with the wisdom of the Catholic faith.
Some, like Maria, feel that they can only go so far with a counselor who doesn’t acknowledge the importance of their spiritual life. Many Catholic parents are concerned about the values their teenager’s counselor may promote behind closed doors. Some couples have shared unfortunate experiences with secular therapists who encouraged them to separate rather than work on their marriage. Now, they are looking for a marriage therapist who respects their desire to heal their relationship, and recognize their marriage not just as a contract, but a sacrament. Though secular counseling can be helpful for many, the trend is clear: some Catholics want a counselor who understands, values, and incorporates faith into the counseling process.
What sets Catholic counseling apart?
It starts with a holistic understanding of the human person as spiritual, intellectual, psychological and physical. At its core, a Catholic perspective acknowledges that the fullest healing comes from an integrated approach that helps a person to truly flourish. A Catholic counselor understands and respects church teachings, offering a shared foundation of values. That means clients can openly discuss their struggles with faith, prayer, or morality without feeling judged or dismissed. Faith can be actively engaged in the therapeutic process rather than being merely tolerated.
If Catholic counseling is a new experience, some people have questions or concerns about it. Will it still be professional and evidence-based? Yes, faith-integrated counseling still follows best clinical practices. Does it mean just being told to pray more? No, while prayer can be part of healing, Catholic counseling incorporates both faith and psychology, and the Catholic therapist seeks to see the client in the way that God sees him or her. What if I have doubts about my faith? A Catholic counselor can help navigate doubts without judgment. Can I find Catholic counseling that is convenient and affordable? Yes, within the Diocese of Arlington, we are blessed with many options for Catholic counseling, both in-person and virtual, at various price points.
If you feel that you would benefit from counseling, here are a few things to keep in mind. It’s okay to seek a therapist who shares your faith and values. Finding the right counselor is key — ask if you can speak on the phone for a few minutes before scheduling an initial session, and inquire about their approach and how they integrate faith. Look for someone who listens, who you connect with, and who shares your values.
One of the great joys of my vocation as a counselor is having a front-row seat to the process of growth, healing, and transformation in the lives of individuals and couples. I know that even in the most difficult circumstances, restoration and renewal are possible, and I believe that God desires that healing to take place. If you’ve been feeling like something is missing in counseling — or have hesitated to seek help because you want your faith to be part of the process — know that Catholic counseling is an option. You don’t have to choose between your mental health and your faith.
Pruitt, a parishioner of St. Theresa Church in Ashburn, is a licensed professional counselor and founder of Sacred Heart Counseling, a Catholic counseling and telehealth center located in Loudoun County. Learn more at SacredHeartVA.com.
