Cynthia A. Thomas, LCSW

My Philosophy for Christian Counseling

 

The training I have as a therapist is combined with scripture and prayer as a part of each session. When I counsel from a faith-based perspective, my treatment style leans strongly toward Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT.) I believe that the call of Romans 12:1-2 for the renewal of our minds is key to the transformation we can expect to go through when we dedicate ourselves as a living sacrifice to our God and go from one degree of glory to the next growing toward Christlikeness (2 Corinthians 3:17-18.) The renewal of our minds to a way of thinking that is in line with our faith is the truth which will set us free. (John 8:32)

 

In counseling from a faith-based perspective, it is important that I am focused on how I can best represent my God as His ambassador in order to facilitate the ministry of reconciliation in whatever situation is presenting itself (2 Corinthians 5:16-20.) I try to offer the hope of God creating all things new. I offer the truth that Jesus Christ came into the world not to condemn us for everything we’re doing wrong, but to save us for abundant life now and eternal life to come (John 3:16-17; John 10:10.)

 

My goal in a faith-based session is to assist the counselee toward having an encounter with the living God who created them and wants to lead them, every day, in His good plan for their lives (Jeremiah 29:11.) Ultimately, He will be their Wonderful Counselor for the rest of their lives (Isaiah 9:6.)

 

My sessions often end with a homework assignment and a “scripture prescription” that the counselee is to meditate on throughout the week.

 

 

 

Authors whose material I frequently use in counseling sessions:

 

1-     Dr. Neil T. Anderson (Freedom in Christ Ministries)

2-     Dr. H. Norman Wright (Talbot School of Theology- Marriage & family counselor)

3-     Dr. Gary Chapman (wrote The Five Love Languages)

4-     Jimmy Evans (wrote Marriage On the Rock, Freedom From Your Past)

5-     Rick Warren (wrote The Purpose Driven Life)

6-     Jerry Bridges (wrote The Discipline of Grace)

7-     Dr. James Dobson (Focus on the Family)

8-     Dennis & Barbara Rainey (FamilyLife- marriage and family ministry)