CHRISTIAN PSYCHOLOGIST - SUTHERLAND SHIRE
Therapy for Christians
For many people, faith is an important part of identity, relationships, and decision-making. It can shape how we understand suffering, healing, responsibility, forgiveness, and growth.
Christians do not need to see a Christian psychologist to receive effective psychological treatment. However, some individuals prefer to work with a psychologist who understands and respects their faith background, values, and church context.
For some clients, this reduces the need to explain spiritual language or cultural nuances. For others, their concerns are directly connected to their faith, church experiences, spiritual identity, or questions about belief.
At Tender Studio Psychology, faith can be thoughtfully integrated into therapy if a client would like this. Sessions remain grounded in evidence-based psychological practice, and faith-based discussion is incorporated in a way that aligns with each individual’s preferences.
If you are considering therapy and would like to explore whether a faith-informed approach may be suitable for you, you are welcome to make an enquiry.
Do I need to be a Christian to attend Tender Studio?
No. Tender Studio Psychology provides psychological services to individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age, gender, cultural background, beliefs, or life experience.
Psychologists are bound by professional codes of ethics that require respectful, non-discriminatory, and evidence-based practice. Therapy is provided in a way that is impartial and responsive to each client’s individual needs.
Clients of any religious or non-religious background are welcome. Faith-based discussion is not introduced unless a client chooses to raise it. Where requested, spiritual beliefs can be incorporated into therapy in a manner that aligns with the client’s preferences.
DOES THIS SOUND FAMILIAR?
Some Christians who seek therapy describe experiences such as:
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I’ve been hurt in a church context and am finding it difficult to trust again.
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I feel pressure to earn God's love.
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I support others but don't have space to talk about my own struggles.
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I find vulnerability difficult.
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I want to develop healthier boundaries.
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I struggle with feeling worthy - spiritually and personally.
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I feel weighed down by guilt or shame.
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I feel stuck in my faith.
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I would like someone outside of my church community to speak openly with.
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I'm trying to manage intrusive or distressing thoughts.
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I feel ashamed of parts of my story.
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I am reflecting on purpose and meaning.
INTEGRATING FAITH AND PSYCHOLOGY
A Thoughtful, Evidence-Based Approach
At Tender Studio Psychology, therapy remains grounded in evidence-based psychological practice. For clients who wish, Christian faith can be thoughtfully and respectfully integrated into the therapeutic process.
For some individuals, faith shapes identity, values, decision-making, relationships, and meaning-making. When relevant, therapy may explore how these beliefs interact with emotional patterns, coping strategies, relational dynamics, and self-perception.
Integrating faith and psychology may look like:
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Exploring psychological patterns through the lens of personal beliefs and spiritual values
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Reflecting on themes such as guilt, shame, forgiveness, identity, and grace
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Processing church-related experiences in a structured and supportive way
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Examining how faith influences boundaries, relationships, and life transitions
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Creating space for doubt, questions, or spiritual tension without judgement
Some clients prefer therapy that remains primarily psychological, with faith acknowledged but not actively incorporated. Others choose to intentionally integrate spiritual reflection into sessions. The direction of therapy is guided by each client’s preferences and goals.
The purpose of integrating faith is not to provide pastoral counselling or theological instruction, but to ensure that therapy is aligned with the whole person - including their worldview, values, and spiritual framework.
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ABOUT THE PSYCHOLOGIST
Faith-Informed Psychological Practice
Brittany Van de Straat is the Principal Psychologist at Tender Studio Psychology.
Brittany has a longstanding Christian faith and has been part of a church community for over 15 years. In addition to her qualifications as a Clinical Psychologist, she holds a Diploma in Christian Ministry and Theology and serves as an ordained ACC pastor within her local church.
Her role within the church is separate from her work as a psychologist. Psychological services provided at Tender Studio Psychology are delivered in accordance with professional standards, ethical guidelines, and evidence-based practice.
Brittany welcomes clients from a range of Christian denominations and backgrounds, as well as those who are exploring faith or hold different beliefs. Faith-informed therapy is available where requested, and integration of spiritual themes remains client-led. Brittany delights in working as a Christian psychologist.
If you'd like to know more, we welcome your questions - contact us at hello@tenderstudiopsychology.com.au.
Exploring Growth and Clarity
If you are struggling with self-doubt, shame, or spiritual tension, therapy may provide a space to explore these experiences in a thoughtful and structured way. Faith can be integrated into the process where desired, while therapy remains grounded in evidence-based psychological practice.