When facing a life change or difficult circumstance, it's always useful to have an outside perspective. Counselors are ideal for providing the listening ear that many people need at some point in their lives. There are many types of counselors available, each with their own approach to mental health care. People with Christian values may find it helpful to talk to a Christian counselor. Here are four reasons to seek Christian-based counseling when you're looking for a therapist:

1. Speak to a counselor who understands your point of view

Counselors are trained professionals who bring their expertise to each therapy session. However, counselors are also individuals with their own outlooks and biases. Many people find it helpful to speak to counselors who have things in common with them. If you're a Christian, talking to a fellow Christian can make it easier to discuss your problems. Speaking to a therapist who shares the same basic outlook on life will allow you to approach your problems together from a place of mutual understanding.

2. Receive helpful Christian advice

Therapists primarily provide a listening ear, allowing clients to work out issues for themselves. However, some people prefer speaking to counselors who can offer insight and advice. If you follow a Christian worldview, Christian advice will probably be the most helpful to you. A Christian-based counselor can recommend that you seek God in prayer. They might encourage you to seek answers in the Bible, which can bring you a sense of peace in troubled times.

3. Take advantage of evidence-based psychological treatments

While Christian-based counselors believe in Jesus Christ, they are also mental health care professionals. Christian counselors also believe in evidence-based psychological treatments and will discuss them with you when appropriate. Sometimes medical solutions to mental illnesses like anxiety and depression are in order. Your counselor will help you address your mental health concerns from the perspective of a trained professional. Therapy modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectic-behavioral therapy can encourage people to break free from disordered patterns of thinking.

4. Keep your faith strong as you navigate difficult trials

In life, sometimes your faith will be tested. The way you respond to those tests determines the strength of your faith. Surrounding yourself with good, Christ-like counsel can help you make good decisions that honor God. Christian-based counseling will encourage you to persevere in your faith, even when you begin to have doubts.

Check out local Christian-based counselors to get help.