Secular Counseling
At Grow Through Life Counseling, we provide secular counseling. Our therapists are licensed mental health professionals who use evidence-based practices to support children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We are here to help clients of all backgrounds overcome challenges, build coping skills, and improve their emotional well-being.
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During intake, we take into account each client’s unique family culture—including religion, beliefs, and practices—as part of a personalized approach to care. If faith or spirituality (of any kind) is an important part of your life and coping, we respectfully incorporate that into your treatment plan when requested. Our work is centered around ethical, inclusive, and clinically appropriate care that meets the mental health needs of our diverse California communities.
What’s the Difference Between Secular & Christian Counseling?
While both secular and Christian counseling aim to help people live healthier, more meaningful lives, the core approaches and oversight differ.​
Secular Counseling
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Provided by licensed or pre-licensed therapists with a master’s degree or higher (LMFT, LCSW, LPCC, Psychologist, or associate).
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Regulated by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS), which enforces ethical standards, licensure, and continuing education.
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Focuses on clinical mental health treatment using evidence-based practices.
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Takes into account family dynamics, past experiences, possible physical or chemical imbalances, and interpersonal conflict.
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Culturally inclusive—religious beliefs may be integrated when relevant and requested by the client.
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Considered medically necessary when treating a mental health diagnosis and often covered by health insurance.
At Grow Through Life Counseling, we operate under this model. We support clients using proven clinical techniques while honoring the individual’s values, culture, and beliefs.
Christian Counseling
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Rooted in biblical teachings and spiritual principles.
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Christian counselors are often accountable to their church rather than a state licensing board.
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May not have clinical mental health training or a graduate degree.
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Includes practices like prayer, Scripture reading, and spiritual advice.
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Typically not used for the diagnosis or treatment of clinical mental health conditions.
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Not usually covered by medical insurance.
Christian counseling offers valuable spiritual support, but it is distinct from state-regulated therapy focused on mental health diagnoses and treatment.