3 CHRISTIAN THERAPISTS & EXPERTS.
I think the intersection of our faith and our mental health is a controversial one. For so long, it’s been taboo to seek help for our sadness, worry, erratic behavior or unresolved trauma. The elephant in the room during most of those conversations is this- we should not place therapists and mental health professionals in the place of God. The concern is that we would no longer bring our problems and concerns to the feet of Jesus. I understand the hesitation. However, I think we should take that approach with every resource that the Lord has given us on earth. Medical doctors, technology, entertainment and so many other things have to submit under the authority of Christ.
I think the Bible (particularly Proverbs) points to the validity of wise counsel and talking through our problems. Proverbs 1:5 says, “A wise man will hear and increase in learning, and a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel." & Proverbs 11:14 says, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in the multitude of counselors there is safety." Personally, I’ve found that talking through my problems is almost like raking up the impurities of my heart. I can take the newfound knowledge into my prayer closet with the Lord. Similarly, when the Lord points out a blemish in my mind and heart, I can pray about it, hear the Lord and include wise counsel.
I’ve compiled a short list of my favorite therapists, psychotherapists, and mind-experts. Look, I have a parasocial relationship with these folks lol. I don’t know them personally and I do not personally stand by and vouch for every word, but I think they manage to hold both curiosity, and wisdom as thought Christian thought-leaders. Enjoy!
Dr. Sarita Lyons @drsaritalyons
Dr. Sarita Lyons is a Psychotherapist out of Philly. The word “dynamic” wouldn’t do her justice. She handles the intersectionality of Black women and the Christianity with thoughtfulness and a real handle on the biblical text. While I do not think she is working out of a practice, I believe she has the gumption and boldness to usher in the next generation of faithful Black women. Her book, “Church Girl” is a gamechanger.
Kobe Campbell @kobecampbell_
Seminary trained, licensed trauma therapist, Kobe to be exact lol. Her social media is bursting at the seams with bite-sized, helpful content. She has tons of online resources! She wrote a book, “Why Am I Like This?” and I love how her practical, but hopeful mind works.
Jo Hargreaves @thefaithfilledtherapist
Jo is a psychotherapist based out of the UK. I love her approach when not trying to contort scripture for the sake of psychology. Instead, she breaks down a lot of the practical, neurological ways that our faith practice and scripture contribute to our overall wellbeing. In short, the mental health field is only adding language and data to what Jesus has already instructed. It’s just catching up.
I hope this helps! They shouldn’t replace the assistance of a personalized therapist relationship, but they can provide a framework for the ways to hold both faith and mental health services.
