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MARRIAGE & INDIVIDUAL COUNSELING
Marriage Intervention, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.R.T.)
Are You Struggling with Personal or Marital Challenges?
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Do you feel disconnected in your marriage?
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Are past wounds and emotional struggles keeping you from moving forward?
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Have traditional counseling methods failed to address your spiritual and emotional needs?
You’re not alone. Relationships and personal struggles can be overwhelming, but healing is possible.
At Relational Skills, we offer faith-based counseling that blends biblical wisdom with clinically sound therapy techniques to help you restore emotional and relational health. Even if you’ve never considered yourself a person of faith, the foundation of biblical wisdom is where healing is found.
We believe healing happens when faith meets practical guidance.
Our approach combines:
Let us help you navigate your challenges with wisdom, faith, and proven strategies.

Real Stories, Real Healing
“Our marriage was at a breaking point, but thanks to Relational Skills, we’ve found a new beginning. Their faith-centered approach gave us the tools to rebuild our connection.”

Teresa
🌟 "My husband and I are a blended family and we were looking for ways to improve all that comes with that. We were so thankful to find Anita and Pepe at Relational Skills and their Marriage Mediation program. They gave us a safe space, guidance, and strategies that have given us the best"

Terecita
🌟 "Anita has helped me overcome trauma and even habits that I thought I was never going to be able to get through! Her patience, love and genuineness is impeccable. Thank you so much for everything. If anyone is thinking about it, please do not hesitate!"

Valerie
🌟 "Anita guided me with questions to help me get to the root of the issue, and using ART, I was able to erase and rewrite parts of my story to heal confusion and past pain. If you appreciate efficiency and thoroughness in healing, definitely schedule an appointment with Anita."
Meet Your Counselors: Dr. JM & Dr. Anita Arrunategui
With over 40 years of combined experience in counseling, ministry, and medicine, Drs. JM and Anita Arrunategui have helped countless individuals and couples find hope and renewal.
Having personally walked through marital struggles and healing, they understand firsthand the power of faith and professional guidance in restoring relationships.
Their mission is to:
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Help individuals and couples find lasting healing through Christ-centered counseling.
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Equip and train those called into the counseling ministry.
Heal Trauma and Break Free from Emotional Pain with A.R.T.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.R.T.) is a cutting-edge, evidence-based therapy that helps individuals overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, and emotional distress quickly and effectively. Using eye movement techniques similar to EMDR, A.R.T. allows clients to process painful memories and replace them with positive images, often achieving significant breakthroughs in just a few sessions.

The ART of Rapid Recovery | Laney Rosenzweig | TEDxSpringfield
How Online Christian Marriage Counseling in Lakeland, FL Can Strengthen Your Faith and Relationship
For individuals seeking guidance that aligns with their faith, this approach combines traditional therapeutic techniques with spiritual insights to promote healing and growth. It is designed for individuals who value their Christian beliefs and wish to incorporate those values into the therapeutic process.
Key Features of Christian Counseling
Biblical Foundation: Christian counseling emphasizes the Bible as a guide for understanding human behavior, relationships, and life challenges.
Spiritual Integration: Therapists often explore spiritual practices like prayer, scripture reading, and reflection as tools for healing.
Holistic Approach: The focus is on addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and fostering overall well-being.
Faith-Oriented Solutions: Guidance is provided in ways that align with Christian values while considering psychological principles.
Benefits of Faith-Based Therapy
Alignment with Personal Beliefs
Therapy rooted in faith resonates more deeply when it aligns with personal values. For Christians, this alignment can offer a sense of comfort and reassurance during challenging times.Encouragement in Spiritual Growth
Counseling sessions often encourage clients to grow spiritually as they work through their emotional struggles. This can lead to a deeper relationship with God while addressing mental health concerns.Community Connection
Faith-based therapy can also help individuals feel more connected to their church or religious community by promoting shared values and collective healing practices.Purposeful Healing
By integrating spirituality into therapy, clients may find greater meaning or purpose behind their experiences of pain or difficulty.
Is Faith-Based Therapy Right for You?
Choosing the right type of counseling depends on your personal preferences and needs.
Question
Relevance
Do you want your faith integrated into therapy?
If your faith plays a significant role in your life, this approach may be suitable for you.
Are you comfortable discussing religion openly?
Openness about spiritual matters will help ensure productive sessions.
Does scripture guide your decision-making?
A reliance on Biblical principles suggests compatibility with this type of counseling.
Would you prefer a therapist who shares your faith?
Having a counselor familiar with Biblical teachings may help foster trust and understanding between you both.
When Christian Counseling May Not Be Ideal
If you prefer therapy devoid of religious influence or would like to focus solely on scientific methods.
If your struggles involve doubts about faith itself (e. g. , questioning belief systems), you may benefit from exploring these issues outside the context of explicit Christian theology first.
If cultural barriers exist between specific denominations or interpretations within Christianity.
Faith-based therapy offers transformative potential by combining mental health expertise with spiritual depth, but it requires careful reflection before committing to determine whether it aligns well with an individual’s goals and values.
Finding Support Through Online Christian Counseling in Lakeland, FL: Combining Faith and Mental Health
Christian counseling is a unique approach to therapy that combines evidence-based psychological practices with the spiritual teachings of Christianity. This integration allows individuals to explore their faith as part of the healing process, addressing emotional, mental, and spiritual concerns holistically. By incorporating Christian principles into traditional counseling methods, therapists can provide clients with a framework that aligns with their beliefs and values. Below is an exploration of how this integration works and its impact on mental health outcomes.
Key Elements of Integrating Faith and Counseling
Counselors often reference biblical teachings to guide therapy sessions. Passages from the Bible are used to inspire hope, promote forgiveness, or encourage reflection on one’s purpose in life.
For instance, Philippians 4:6-7 (“Do not be anxious about anything... ”) may be shared as part of techniques for managing anxiety through trust in God.
Prayer may be incorporated into sessions if the client desires it, providing a direct connection between therapy and their spiritual life.
Guided meditations rooted in Christian traditions can also help clients find peace while addressing emotional struggles.
Christian counseling offers ethical guidance based on biblical standards, helping clients navigate challenges while staying true to their values.
This can be particularly beneficial when facing decisions about relationships, career paths, or personal growth.
Many faith-based counselors encourage involvement in church groups or ministries as part of the therapeutic journey. Engaging with others who share similar beliefs fosters accountability and emotional support.
Benefits of Bridging Spirituality and Mental Health
Benefit
Description
Holistic Healing
Addresses the mind, body, and spirit simultaneously for comprehensive care
Stronger Sense of Purpose
Helps clients connect their struggles to broader spiritual meaning
Alignment with Core Values
Therapy aligns with personal faith, reducing cognitive dissonance
Supportive Community
Encourages participation in faith-based groups for additional encouragement
Challenges in Combining Faith and Counseling
Cultural Sensitivity:The counselor must respect diverse interpretations of Christianity among clients.
Therapist Bias:Therapists must avoid imposing their own beliefs onto clients while maintaining professionalism.
Balancing Faith with Science:Ensuring that psychological interventions remain evidence-based while incorporating spirituality effectively requires skillful practice.
To address these challenges successfully, counselors undergo specialized training that equips them to handle sensitive issues without compromising either psychological integrity or theological soundness.
Is Faith-Based Therapy Right for You?
Are you seeking a therapeutic approach that respects your religious convictions?
Would you benefit from discussions related to spiritual growth alongside addressing mental health concerns?
Do you feel comfortable working within a framework rooted in biblical principles?
By answering these questions honestly and having an open dialogue with potential providers about their techniques and approach toward faith integration, you can make an informed decision about whether this therapeutic style aligns with your goals for healing.
Christian Couples Counseling Lakeland, FL: Bridging Spirituality and Mental Health Through Faith
The integration of Christian faith and counseling practice is a unique approach that blends spiritual principles with evidence-based therapeutic techniques. This model recognizes the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, offering clients a holistic perspective in addressing their challenges. Understanding how faith informs the counseling process can help individuals navigate personal struggles while deepening their spiritual growth.
Key Components of Integrating Faith and Counseling
Biblical Foundations
Counselors who incorporate Christian faith into therapy often draw upon Biblical teachings to provide guidance and support. Scripture is used as both a source of inspiration and a practical tool for addressing issues such as anxiety, guilt, forgiveness, or relational conflict.
Examples:
- Verses on peace (e. g. , Philippians 4:6-7) are referenced to address worry or fear. - Teachings on forgiveness (e. g. , Ephesians 4:32) are applied to help clients reconcile broken relationships.
Prayer in Therapy
Prayer may be used during sessions as an active part of the healing process. It can serve as a means to invite God’s presence into the therapeutic space or to center a session around faith-based intentions.Faith-Informed Interventions
Interventions in Christian counseling often integrate spiritual practices such as meditation on scripture, reflective journaling with a focus on gratitude or blessings, and reframing negative thoughts through a Christ-centered perspective.
Benefits of Faith-Based Counseling
Alignment with Core Values: Clients can explore their struggles in an environment that respects and aligns with their beliefs.
Holistic Healing: By addressing not only psychological issues but also spiritual concerns, this approach fosters emotional and spiritual growth simultaneously.
Community Support: Christian counselors may encourage involvement in church communities or small groups for added support.
Aspect
Traditional Counseling
Christian Counseling
Focus
Techniques based on psychology
Blends psychological theory with scripture
Role of Spirituality
May not address spirituality
Central to the therapeutic process
Methods
Evidence-based interventions
Faith-informed tools (e.g., prayer)
Ethical Considerations
Integrating faith into counseling requires sensitivity to both ethical guidelines and client needs.
Clients voluntarily choose faith-based therapy without coercion.
The counselor respects the client’s level of comfort regarding religious discussions.
Therapists maintain professional competence by blending psychological knowledge with theological understanding effectively.
Challenges Faced by Counselors
Balancing theological accuracy with psychological application.
Addressing diverse denominational beliefs within Christianity.
Navigating ethical dilemmas when secular approaches conflict with Biblical principles.
By bridging spirituality and mental health through intentional integration, Christian counseling provides a transformative framework for healing that honors both human vulnerability and divine strength.
Discover Spiritual Healing and Emotional Growth with Christian Counseling Lakeland, FL
Christian counseling is a unique approach to therapy that emphasizes spiritual growth alongside emotional and mental healing. At its core, this type of counseling seeks to address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—by integrating biblical principles with therapeutic techniques. The focus on spiritual wholeness fosters a deeper connection to one’s faith while navigating life’s challenges. Here are key aspects of how Christian counseling promotes healing and well-being.
Discover Christian Premarital Counseling in Lakeland, FL for Spiritual Wholeness
Spiritual wholeness refers to a state of being where an individual finds harmony between their faith, values, relationships, and emotional health.
- Strengthen their relationship with God through prayer and Scripture.
- Identify areas of spiritual disconnect or struggles in their faith journey.
- Foster forgiveness and grace for themselves and others.
By aligning spiritual beliefs with personal growth goals, clients can experience a renewed sense of purpose and resiliency during difficult times.
Emotional Healing with a Christian Marriage Therapist in Lakeland, FL
Emotional well-being in Christian counseling is often guided by biblical narratives and teachings. Counselors might encourage clients to find parallels between their struggles and those experienced by individuals in Scripture.
- Overcoming fear or anxiety by reflecting on passages such as Philippians 4:6-7 (“Do not be anxious about anything... ”).
- Coping with grief or loss by meditating on verses of comfort like Psalm 34:18 (“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted... ”).
These insights not only provide solace but also reinforce the idea that emotional struggles are part of the human experience—and that healing is possible through divine guidance.
Finding Emotional Support Through Christian Marriage Counselors Lakeland, FL
Prayer is an integral tool used in Christian counseling sessions.
1.Centering the Mind:Prayer helps clients focus on what matters most while letting go of unnecessary worries or distractions. 2.Building Trust:Sharing prayers enhances trust between the counselor and client by creating a safe space for vulnerability. 3.Encouraging Hope:Communicating with God during sessions reinforces hope for positive transformation.
Finding Support Through Christian Marriage Counseling Lakeland, FL
Christian counselors strive to bridge gaps between spiritual practices and evidence-based psychological techniques to meet individual needs effectively.
| Area | Faith-Based Approach | Psychological Strategies |
|-----------------------|-----------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------|
| Stress Management | Meditation on Scripture | Relaxation techniques (e. g.
| Relationship Issues | Encouraging forgiveness as taught in the Bible | Communication skill-building |
| Anxiety/Depression | Promoting trust in God’s plan | Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) |
By addressing both spiritual struggles and mental health concerns holistically, clients are empowered to achieve lasting change.
Key Takeaways from Christian Based Counseling in Lakeland, FL
Christian counseling focuses on more than just symptom relief; it seeks transformative growth rooted in faith-based values. By addressing core issues related to spirituality along with emotional challenges, individuals can cultivate deeper self-awareness, stronger connections within their community, and a stronger relationship with God—ultimately leading them toward lasting peace and well-being.
Finding the Best Christian Family Counseling Lakeland, FL: Tips for Choosing the Right Provider
Choosing the right Christian counseling service is an important step in addressing emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. Finding a trustworthy provider who aligns with your faith and therapeutic needs ensures a supportive experience that fosters growth and healing. Below are practical tips to guide you through the process of selecting the best Christian counseling services.
Before starting your search, take time to reflect on why you’re seeking counseling. Understanding your goals will help you find a provider whose services align with your expectations.
- Are you looking for help with specific mental health challenges like anxiety or depression?
- Do you want guidance in navigating a life transition or relationship issue?
- Is integrating faith into therapy important for your healing process?
By identifying your priorities, you'll narrow down providers who specialize in areas relevant to your concerns.
Counselors offering Christian-based services should have appropriate qualifications and certifications.
- Educational background: A master’s or doctoral degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field is essential.
- Licensure: Ensure they are licensed by relevant state authorities to practice counseling or therapy.
- Faith-based training: Ideally, they should have specialized training in integrating Christian principles into therapeutic practices.
Christian counselors vary in how they incorporate faith into their sessions. Some may rely heavily on scripture-based teaching, while others balance traditional therapeutic models with spiritual guidance. It is important to ask about their specific approach during an initial consultation.
Key questions to ask include:
- How do you integrate biblical principles into therapy sessions?
- Do you use specific prayer practices as part of treatment?
- Are evidence-based psychological methods used alongside spiritual guidance?
Therapeutic relationships thrive on trust and rapport. When choosing a provider, ensure that their values align with your beliefs and that you feel comfortable discussing personal matters with them.
Some factors influencing compatibility include: - Shared denominational beliefs (if this is important for you).
- Communication style – does it resonate with your personality?
- Openness to discussing sensitive issues without judgment.
Source
What To Look For
Example
Friends/Family
Personal experiences
Trusted recommendations
Online Reviews
Insights on professionalism & effectiveness
Client testimonials
Church Community
Referrals from pastoral staff
Local resources
Practical details can influence your decision-making process significantly: - Cost: Does the counselor accept insurance or offer sliding-scale fees?
- Location: Is the office conveniently located, or do they offer virtual sessions if required?
- Scheduling flexibility: Can appointments fit within your availability?
Final Thoughts
Taking the time to choose the right Christian counselor ensures a meaningful therapeutic journey rooted in both professional expertise and spiritual understanding. By evaluating credentials, exploring approaches to faith integration, assessing compatibility, and considering logistics carefully, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision that meets both emotional needs and spiritual goals effectively.
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