“What is Gestalt therapy, and is it biblical?”……Because psychology is a study of human behavior and cognition, people sometimes view it as a comprehensive theory of humanity. No single psychological theory, however, accounts for the sum of human life. It is only through knowing God that we can come to understand His creation, especially the […]

“What is cognitive-behavior therapy, and is it biblical?”……Cognitive-behavioral therapy, which is widely used today, grew out of behavioral therapy. Though many Christians are leery of psychology in general, cognitive-behavior theory seems to be more in sync with biblical principles. The following are a brief explanation of cognitive-behavior therapy and a biblical analysis of its concepts.……Explanation […]

“How should a Christian view Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?”…Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by obsessive thoughts that lead to compulsive behaviors. The thoughts are invasive and feel uncontrollable. Furthermore, the thoughts are anxiety-provoking, compelling the person to carry out certain behaviors to temporarily relieve the anxiety. Both the thoughts and compulsive […]

“What is Adlerian therapy (or Individual Psychology), and is it biblical?”……Pop psychology has invaded our television shows and advice columns and is thriving in the self-help industry. Counseling or psychotherapy is increasingly prevalent in society and seemingly well accepted. Christian reaction to secular psychology is cautious, and for good reason. Some secular psychology fails to […]

“What is behavior therapy, and is it biblical?”……Christians have a variety of views concerning psychology. Some accept psychology as a legitimate field of study useful in assisting people with the problems of life. Others reject it outright. Scientists, too, vary in their acceptance of psychology as efficacious; psychology is, in many ways, an art form […]

“How does psychology work with biblical counseling?”……Secular psychology is based on the teachings of psychoanalysts such as Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung, and Carl Rogers. Biblical, or NoutheticCounseling, (see study on Nouthetic Counseling) on the other hand, is based squarely on the revealed Word of God. Biblical counseling sees Scripture as sufficient to equip the child […]

“What does the Bible say about codependency?”……Codependency is a mental health designation for relationships in which people use one another to get their own emotional needs met, but in a selfish and destructive manner. Codependency is not a mental health diagnosis, but a symptom associated with many psychological disorders. Originally, codependent was a term used […]