FAQ: How is a Christian Framework Integrated into Life To The Full's Trauma Counselling?
At Life to the Full, we define trauma counselling as a specialised service, primarily delivered within our clinical psychology framework. While we do offer spiritual counselling, our preferred starting point for trauma-related cases is typically rooted in our psychological services, drawing on the specialised training of our clinical psychologists. All of our services are available to be delivered within a Christian worldview, should a client be seeking that integration.
We integrate a Christian framework to provide our clients with a deeper sense of meaning, purpose, and hope throughout their healing process. Our clinicians are specifically trained to help clients explore their challenges through the lens of faith.
Here's how we specifically integrate a Christian framework into our trauma counselling:
Addressing Theological Questions like Forgiveness:
When clients have experienced trauma, particularly that which has been inflicted by others, theological questions such as forgiveness often arise. We delve deeply into these concepts within a Christian framework, clarifying that forgiveness does not imply condoning harmful actions or returning to abusive relationships. Instead, it involves acknowledging the transgression and trusting in divine justice, with the belief that God will ultimately call all actions into account.
Embracing Redemptive Stories and Formation:
We emphasise the concept of redemptive stories, guiding clients to lament and grieve their experiences. We firmly believe that God can use difficult experiences for deeper formation and connection with Him. This means acknowledging the pain while finding hope in God's ability to heal and write a deeper narrative. Our conviction is that our deepest formation often occurs when life is hard, rather than when it is easy.
Affirming Identity in Christ:
A core biblical principle we apply is identity, particularly for clients who may feel unworthy or "less than" due to their traumatic experiences. The Gospel provides a powerful counter-narrative, asserting that individuals are beloved children of God and that their inherent worth is not diminished by human experiences. We aim to help clients recognise that their wounds do not prohibit them from coming to God, who is the great healer.
Utilising 'Thought Experiments' for Non-Practising Christians:
For clients who may not be actively practising Christians, we employ "thought experiments" to explore the implications of biblical principles. This approach allows them to scrutinise these truths and examine their existential satisfaction without requiring immediate agreement or belief, as we believe that if biblical truths are indeed true, they will stand up to such examination.
Integrating Prayer and Scripture:
Prayer is a welcome and permitted part of our sessions for all clients who desire it, regardless of whether they are seeing a psychologist, relationship counsellor, or spiritual counsellor. Our use of scripture involves tapping into paradigms that address clients' perceptions of themselves and God, such as their identity in Him and God's character as a loving Heavenly Father. It's crucial for us not to apply Bible verses prescriptively or out of context. Instead, we seek to understand what clients functionally believe about God and the world, guiding them towards a worldview that impacts their healing and relationships, and helps them see their suffering as part of a redemptive story, ultimately fostering hope.
We also make sure to prepare our clients for the challenging nature of trauma counselling, explaining that they may experience a temporary worsening before progress, particularly with modalities like EMDR. We assure them that this engagement with the pain, rather than avoiding it, is a normal part of the healing process and leads to long-term restoration.
Ready to take this important step?
Contact Life to the Full today to learn more and schedule your sessions.