Is Christian therapy the same as pastoral counseling?

Christian therapy ("counseling" is often used interchangeably) is not the same as pastoral counseling. The role of each is different and ideally is complimentary to each other. Generally speaking, the role of pastoral counseling is spiritual guidance. Many pastors also give good advice about life and relationships that is very valuable. For many pastoral counseling may be all they need.

Professional therapists (LMFTs, psychologists, etc.) serve a different role in counseling. Therapists bring clinical knowledge and skills that pastors generally don't have. Also, the nature of the work is different. A therapist will primarily help you to explore and work through emotional issues. Guidance is also given very differently. Unlike pastors, professional therapists are ethically responsible to guiding through the CLIENTS value-system. Another major difference is the clinical training professional therapists have. Pastors generally will refer more complicated or long-term cases that may involve clinically significant symptoms like depression, anxiety, addiction, etc. or difficult relational problems to professional therapists/counselors.

As a point of clarification, if I am serving the role as a CHRISTIAN therapist I will remain consistent to the faith, as this is the specified role I was hired and trained to fill.

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