Not Apples to Apples: Why “Counseling” Needs a Clear Definition

One word is carrying way too much weight right now—and the confusion is hurting people.In this episode of The Steadfast Podcast, Jessie Evans responds to a recent Gospel Coalition article (“Why Women Are Going to Therapy Instead of Church”) and makes the case for a needed distinction: pastoral care/discipleship and clinical counseling are not the same thing. We’re not comparing apples to apples.Jessie breaks down why scope of practice matters, why licensure exists (education, board oversight, ethics, continuing education, evidence-based care), and how well-meaning church “counseling” can unintentionally cause harm—especially when someone is facing anxiety, trauma, postpartum intrusive thoughts, OCD, abuse dynamics, or suicidality.You’ll also hear what “Christian counseling” means at Steadfast Christian Counseling: we are clinically grounded and trauma-informed, and for clients who desire it, we integrate faith ethically and client-led—guided by professional ethics and client autonomy. In other words: evidence-based therapy with a counselor who understands Christian culture and can hold the faith pieces of your story with care—without pressure or agenda.📍 Visit our WebsiteBook a free consultation: ✉️ Join the Steadfast Friday Email Club (weekly encouragement + practical tools): ⛪ Trauma-Informed Church Training: [email protected] for this episodeBare Marriage — Episode 310.Title: Episode 310: Desiring God Thinks Marriage Is Like Peddling Furiously on the Back of a Tandem Bike