Should a Christian see a psychologist or psychiatrist?

TL;DR:

Christians can absolutely seek help from psychologists or psychiatrists, but we must remember that professional advice alone can’t fix every struggle. True healing and understanding comes from God alone.

what does the bible say?

People often seek out the services of psychologists or psychiatrists for help managing mental health difficulties that are impacting their everyday life in areas such as relationships, work, and school. The Bible doesn’t discourage this but points to God as the true Healer. Genesis shows that we are not merely physical beings, but are created in God’s image, with a spirit and soul, which includes emotions (Genesis 1:26, 2:7). Proverbs advises seeking wise counsel (11:14, 15:22). At the same time, God is the ultimate Counselor and Healer, so we should always take our troubles to Him (Psalm 34;18, 42:11). Scripture teaches the power of prayer. Believers are told to cast our anxieties upon the Lord in prayer (Matthew 11:28-30; Philippians 4:6-7; 1 Peter 5:7), communicate with God regularly, and test any advice from human counselors against what Scripture teaches (1 Thessalonians 5:21). God knows us more than any human being can, so we can come to him with that in mind and share our deepest hurts.

from the old testament

God created humans as whole beings—body, soul, and spirit—so taking care of our mental and emotional health is important (Genesis 2:7).
Wisdom and counsel are valued; seeking advice from others is encouraged. However, we need to make sure we are seeking godly and wise counsel (Proverbs 11:14, 15:22).
God comforts and strengthens those who are anxious or troubled (Psalm 34:18, 42:11).

from the new testament

Christians may seek counseling, but any advice must be measured against what the Bible teaches (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Seeking a true Christian counselor is ideal. This is important in all areas of life, and mental health professionals are just one example of this.
Jesus cares for our inner burdens and invites us to cast our anxieties on Him (Matthew 11:28-30; 1 Peter 5:7).
Christians are called to pray to God for help (James 1:5; Philippians 4:6-7) and share our burdens with mature believers as well (Galatians 6:2). Sometimes, even a local pastor may offer counseling.

implications for today

Christians who need counseling are immediately at odds with a secular counselors’ mindset: Psychologists and psychiatrists are typically trained to believe that humans can solve their own problems, but the Bible teaches that we cannot save ourselves apart from God. The work of the Holy Spirit in our lives leads to change.

Christians seeking help from mental health professionals would benefit from finding a biblically grounded believer. But even a Christian psychologist or psychiatrist will never have all of the answers because human knowledge will never compare to God's wisdom (1 Corinthians 2:14-16).

Psychologists and psychiatrists may be able to assist people with mental well-being, but they can make mistakes and usually can’t help every problem. Only God has the complete answers and help for all of life's difficulties. God has given us the Bible as a guide for how to live our lives, relate to each other, and know who He is.

We are to bring our cares and difficulties to the Lord in all situations and find our ultimate hope and help in Him (1 Peter 5:7, Jeremiah 17:7). We can look to God and His Word, which He has given to us for help, especially in times of trouble.

understand

Christians can seek mental health help from professionals.
True healing comes only from God.
Scripture, prayer, and Christian community should guide and complement professional care.

reflect

How comfortable are you with seeking professional help for mental or emotional struggles while trusting God for ultimate healing?
In what areas of your life do you feel the need for both spiritual guidance and practical mental health support?
How can you discern whether advice or therapy aligns with God’s Word and His ways?

engage

How can believers support someone who is seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist?
How can we balance reliance on professional help with dependence on God for true healing and understanding?
How do we help each other recognize when professional mental health care is needed without undermining faith in God?