Biblical Answer

Can Christians see a therapist for anxiety?

The Bible does not forbid Christians from seeking professional help for anxiety, but rather encourages them to seek help from God. In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches his followers to trust in God and not worry about their daily needs. However, Jesus also acknowledges that anxiety is a natural part of life, and that Christians may struggle with it. The key is not to try to eliminate anxiety altogether, but to learn to trust in God and find peace in the midst of it.

In fact, the Bible suggests that anxiety can be a cross that Christians may voluntarily carry in God's service. John Stott notes that self-denial and self-control are essential for living a life that reflects Christian values. This means that Christians may need to retrain their minds and bodies to trust in God and find peace in the midst of anxiety. While secular psychotherapies may offer temporary relief, the Bible offers a more profound solution: training our minds and bodies to trust in God.

Therefore, Christians can see a therapist for anxiety, but they should not rely solely on secular therapies. Rather, they should seek to deepen their relationship with God and learn to trust in Him. This may involve prayer, meditation, and studying Scripture, as well as seeking help from a Christian counselor who can offer guidance and support. By combining these approaches, Christians can find peace and freedom from anxiety, not just temporary relief. Ultimately, the goal is not to eliminate anxiety altogether, but to learn to trust in God and find peace in the midst of it.