Christian Therapist for women with anxiety and trauma throughout CA & TX
How to Pause Before Saying Something You’ll Regret | Christian Marriage Counseling in Houston
Do you ever wish you could take back words said in the heat of the moment? My blog explores how to pause before reacting, offering simple tools to manage emotions, communicate with care, and protect your relationships. Read now to learn how to respond, not regret.
Why Pausing Can Save Your Marriage from Unnecessary Conflict
Your husband comes back from the store- without the 3 most important items that you asked him to get for dinner tonight! You emailed him, you texted him AND you told him verbally! It’s almost 6pm, you’re already behind on dinner preparation. The kids are getting antsy, you just wanted to whip up a quick dinner, put the kids to bed and finally have some time to yourself. But because of his mistake- yet again- you find yourself rushing into the car, back to the grocery store to grab 3 simple items.
You want to start screaming. You’re actually so mad that you could cry. And if you did, it won’t be totally shocking. But if you did, he’ll get defensive, he might blame you, you’ll both go back and forth, and dinner will still be late. Only now, you’ll both be in a foul mood.
Many conflicts happen in marriage because couples react before thinking. A huge trigger presents itself, reminding you of the past, and you instantly blow your lid off. Now you’re both trapped in the yelling or silent treatment trap. What good does it do? Nothing.
A scripture that speaks to this is Proverbs 15:28 – “The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.”
Ouch.
Yelling is probably not righteous or kind. And I know you definitely do not want to be wicked or evil.
Heavy words.
The silent treatment is probably not righteous or kind. I can assure you that even though you are completely at your wit’s end with this situation [or whatever other situation you’re currently facing], yelling will only make it worse. Finger pointing will not get dinner cooked any faster. It also won’t rewind time and get the correct dinner ingredients.
Enter marriage counseling in Houston.
My job as a Christian marriage counselor in Houston is NOT to have you eat your feelings or pretend like you’re not upset. It’s also not to take you husband’s side, (because he totally should be able to get 3 simple ingredients from the grocery store). But my goal is to teach couples how to create intentional pause moments to respond with love instead of anger. You get to express your frustration, you get to tell him what’s on your mind, but you learn how to do it without creating a crack in your marriage.
Understanding Emotional Triggers That Lead to Hurtful Words
Marriage can sometimes feel like a battle field. You wake up in the morning and you feel like between your husband and your kids, bombs are thrown at you constantly. Here are some common triggers I’m sure you might have experienced:
Stress: This is a big one. You’re juggling your life as a wife, keeping the home together, managing your husband’s needs, continuing to meet your goals as an entrepreneur or an employee, volunteering at church, engaging in ministry, trying to keep your physical and mental health afloat- the list is endless! You already feel like you are on the verge of a nervous breakdown. So it is little wonder why you snap at the smallest thing. Because that small thing is the actual straw that breaks the camel’s back.
Past unhealed wounds: You’ve been married for a while, and sometimes you wonder if you even still love your husband. Whenever you look at him, you are reminded of past ways in which your trust has been broken, respect has dwindled and you are beginning to feel like “Why am I even here? What’s in this for me?”
Unmet expectations: When you got married you thought things would go one way, but things have taken a different turn. You didn't think things would be this hard. Maybe you thought your husband would be more like your dad- or less like him. But it turns out you find yourself in the very marriage you said you didn’t want.
Feeling Unheard: Just like in the previous example, you get tired of repeating yourself over and over again, of him leaning on you for things you think he should be able to do himself, but you not being able to lean on him. And you are also tired of your feelings going invalidated. You feel invisible and sometimes, unloved.
If you can identify with the above trigegrs, never fear, help is near. As a Black Christian therapist in Houston I help wives and husbands identify personal triggers and respond from a place of grace. We won’t sweep them under the rug, rather we will be able to address them, you’ll learn how to respond to them appropriately, so you can stop stepping on each other’s toes.
Practical Techniques for Pausing Before Responding
If you have found yourself yelling, snapping at or being rude with your spouse one too many times, here are some simple tips to help you pause before responding. Remember that your response will either improve your relationship or put a crack in it. You choose the one that you want.
Take a deep breath: Sometimes all you need is a few seconds between hearing your spouse say something triggering and opening your mouth to respond. A deep breath gives you a few seconds to rethink what is about to come out of your mouth. Breathe in deeply for 4 seconds, then breathe out for 4 seconds. Try to repeat this 4 times. This gives you at least 32 seconds to gather your thoughts.
Ask yourself this before responding:
“Is my statement kind or is it wicked?”
“Will my statement repair my relationship or attempt to rip it apart?”
“Will my statement help my spouse or shatter him?”
“Will I regret this response tomorrow?'‘
Request a short break before responding: Do not feel the pressure to respond to everything in real time. Sometimes you have to take time to reflect, gather your thoughts and actually craft a good response. And this takes time. Carve at least 30 minutes for this. When you are in a time out, don’t spend the time thinking about how upset you are. Rather, think about what you want to add to the relationship. Thinking about your upset will only increase it.
Pray silently for guidance before responding: This is the most important one. Before you open your mouth to respond in the heat of the moment, say a silent prayer for wisdom and guidance. Nobody is wiser than the Holy Spirit. He will get you right every single time.
If this seems difficult or impossible, the couples I work with in Christian marriage counseling in Houston practice these strategies until they become natural habits. I’ll guide you and help you learn how to communicate effectively with your spouse- yes, even in the heat of the moment.
How Pausing Transforms Conflict into Connection
Keyword: Black marriage counselor in Houston
Explain how pausing reduces escalation, opens space for empathy, and strengthens emotional safety.
A Black marriage counselor in Houston teaches couples how to use pause moments to listen actively and respond constructively.
Scripture: Proverbs 17:27 – “The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.”
If you find yourself feeling impatient at the idea of pausing, know that it reduces escalation. Imagine how many arguments, hurt feelings and misunderstandings could be prevented if only you or your husband took the time to pause and reflect before speaking. Taking a pause also gives space for empathy. Sometimes you rush to judgment before thinking things through.
Sometimes you snap at your spouse simply because you’re tired or stressed. Other times pausing allows you to better understand what your spouse meant. Sometimes you respond before even understanding your spouse’s intentions or point of view.
Pausing can also strengthen emotional safety. When you know that your spouse is mature enough to give you compassion when you fall, and also provide you with grace and understanding, you feel more loved. And someone who feel loved I swore likely to also give more love. We need to give space for humanity in our marriages.
My job as a Black marriage counselor in Houston is to teach couples like you how to use pause moments to listen actively and respond constructively. Communication is an art form that very few people do well. With some simple tweaks your marriage can be transformed in a few weeks.
I’ll leave you with this scripture- “The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered” Proverbs 17:27.
Making Pausing a Daily Habit in Your Marriage
Be patient with yourself. Communication is an art form that is learned over time. If you and your spouse are willing, you can absolutely learn healthy skills that will help you feel loved, respected and heard. One way to incorporate pausing in your daily life is to begin with daily check ins. Ask each other these 2 questions each day:
How did I help you feel loved/respected today?
How can I do better tomorrow?
If the above questions don’t feel deep enough for you, perhaps you can do regular, longer check ins. These can work once a week or even once a month. Go over what you appreciate about one another (I’m a fan of starting and ending on a positive note). Make sure you use specifics. Also talk about 1 thing you think your spouse can do better. When you do this, focus on just 1 thing. Don’t sound harsh or degrading. Feedback should always be done in love. You can also include what you appreciate about one another. Catch your spouse being loving. Never fail to send him or her texts of appreciation. And if you want to take it old school. write a handwritten note too.
Make sure you pray before these discussions so they don’t go left.
Do arguments in your marriage leave you feeling frustrated or distant? As a Black Christian marriage counselor in Houston, I help couples learn how to pause, respond with grace, and turn conflict into connection. Book your free 15-minute consultation today and start creating a calmer, more loving marriage.
About
My name is Ibinye Osibodu-Onyali. I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and Texas. I help women who are struggling with trauma, anxiety and insomnia. I also help couples learn how to speak each other’s language, date each other again and manage conflict in a non-painful way.
Faith, Sensitivity, and Trauma Healing: What a Christian Therapist in Houston Wants You to Know About Brainspotting
Discover how faith, sensitivity, and trauma healing intersect through Brainspotting. A Christian therapist in Houston explains how this gentle, effective approach helps highly sensitive women process overwhelm and find peace. Read my full blog to learn more.
Why Highly Sensitive Women Carry Emotional Trauma Differently
No one likes trauma. No one wants it, but the unfortunate fact of life is that sometimes experiences leave us scarred, bruised and very shaken. Highly Sensitive People have deep empathy, feel things so strongly and notice so much. When they are in a situation or with someone, they tend to have strong emotional memory. So they might not remember exactly what was said or done to them, but they can actually recollect the deep feeling of pain. For others, they might remember what happened, but Highly Sensitive People will be able to go back to the emotions and feel it in their bodies- stomach feels yucky, chest tightens, head starts to hurt, etc.
And because of this strong emotional memory, trauma can feel louder and much more difficult to shake in Highly Sensitive People than non Highly Sensitive People. That deep well isn’t just great for connecting with others, but that deep well also reminds us of bad memories and experiences. Sometimes you feel so misunderstood just because you’re a Highly Sensitive Person. You don’t seem to enjoy the things that others do, they think you are “Too sensitive” or “Dramatic.” And so you spend time pretending to be someone that you’re not. This can actually lead to emotional burnout. Because so much of your energy is spent transforming into someone else- leaving no room for the authentic you.
This is where I come in. As a Christian therapist in Houston, I can provide faith-rooted understanding and comfort. My job is to help you process and get rid of trauma without belittling you. God made you highly sensitive for a reason and it’s not part of my job to change you. Rather we can collaborate on how to stay authentic in your faith, authentic in your personality and feel like you have a place in the world. Yes, it’s possible.
Understanding the Link Between Faith, Sensitivity, and Trauma: A Christian Therapist in Houston Explains
As a Christian Therapist in Houston, I’ve seen how sensitivity — though a beautiful gift — can make trauma feel heavier. But with faith and the right tools, healing is absolutely possible. Sometimes as a Highly Sensitive Person, you are so used to people invalidating your feelings, or telling you that you need to “Get over it” that you just mask your pain. You internalize it, pretend like you’re okay but deep inside you are actually struggling and drowning. Because you are a strong person, you might throw yourself into work or help other people to distract yourself from your own pain.
The thing is that trauma can affect both your heart and your spirit. Over time you find that you become resentful. Because most Highly Sensitive People that I know are actually really good at holding the pain of others, supporting others, and helping others feel so much better about themselves. But when it comes to they being supported, they have nobody to support them. Most people just assume that because they are so supportive, they don't need to be supported. And also because of your deep empathy, as a Highly Sensitive Person, you sometimes also invalidate yourself. You are so used to others telling you that you are being dramatic, that you actually gaslight yourself into believing that you're being dramatic. So you learn how to put a smile on your face well silently suffering. But you don't have to go on like this any longer.
As a Christian therapist in Houston, I integrate sensitivity awareness as well as biblical principles. And because I believe that therapy should work, I also incorporate Brainspotting therapy, which is a neuroscience-based approach that helps you actually rewire your brain so that you can have a longer lasting healing from trauma, anxiety and other difficult experiences. You don't have to struggle alone. You don't have to ignore your spiritual needs or your emotional needs. I am fully aware that you are neurodivergent and this has to be celebrated. Sometimes people run away from therapy because they have been burned by a therapist in the past who did not understand what High Sensitivity is. But I happen to understand AND live High Sensitivity. I understand trauma and I also understand the Christian faith. Therefore all parts of you are welcome in my therapy space.
What Is Brainspotting? — and Why It Works So Well for Highly Sensitive People
Brainspotting is essentially a simple way to help your brain heal trauma without having to relive it over and over again. So we know that when you go through different traumatic experiences, or just different difficult experiences, there are parts of your brain that actually store the memories as well as the emotions that are linked to the event. Because many of my clients are high performing Highly Sensitive People, they have gotten really good at pushing those memories and events to the back of their minds so that it does not get in the way of their day-to-day life. I get it. It is simply a coping mechanism. And so through the process of brainspotting, my job is to help you locate those areas in the brain where the pain is stored, to be able to process those events and memories so that your body can actually release the emotional pain that has been stored in your body for a while.
We often think running away from trauma is effective. Well, it is- until it’s not. Some people avoid certain places and things because of trauma they have experienced. Sometimes people find themselves feeling frozen at work or they struggle with distorted thought patterns like “Nobody likes me,” “I have to please everyone so that I don't get fired,” or even thoughts like '‘I am no good.” My job is to help you heal those thoughts and feelings so that they stop taking over your life.
Brainspotting is especially powerful for Highly Sensitive People who have felt overwhelmed by traditional talk therapy. As a highly sensitive person who already feels deeply, you have already felt like you have been reliving the event over and over again. So when you process trauma through traditional talk therapy, it sometimes feels like you're actually being retraumatized. But when you utilize brainspotting, you don't have to give me a play by play of what happened to you. We go directly into the center where the events are stored in your brain, so you can process them without giving me an overview. This method is gentle, precise and spiritually compatible.
Now I often tell my clients that my job is not to be your pastor. So I do not indoctrinate you, but I will pull scriptures that are in line with your experiences so that you can study and let the Holy Spirit minister onto you.
How Faith Deepens the Healing Process
Faith isn’t just a comfort during therapy — it’s a source of strength that helps you process, release, and renew your heart from the inside out. The word of God says “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he'‘ (Proverbs 23:7). Therefore we know that the words and events we meditate on have a direct correlation with who we are. This is why I introduce specific scriptures that are in line with what you are currently experience, so you may meditate on them, and in turn, they transform your life.
Your faith is at the core of who you are, so when you’re doing true transformative work, we cannot exclude faith. Faith complements trauma therapy as I offer deeper insight, there is room for prayer, surrender and spiritual reflection. You can invite God into your healing process. As a Christian therapist in Houston, I believe that faith and therapy are two parts of the same restorative process.
Healing Trauma in Relationships: How Brainspotting and the Gottman Method Help Christian Couples Reconnect
When one or both partners carry unhealed trauma, it shows up in the relationship — but through faith-based Brainspotting and the Gottman Method, couples can reconnect with grace and understanding. Brainspotting helps release the emotional reactivity that sometimes shows up as snapping at each other, crying, yelling or even shutting down. Once one or both partners have worked on their trauma, they will be in a better position to work through their relational issues. Trauma can be such a strain on a marriage. Imagine carrying a heavy emotional load on top of trying to work a job, raise kids and be present for your spouse. It’s just too much. But once you’ve dumped the trauma load, you can show up as the more peaceful, open hearted you.
As a Christian marriage therapist in Houston, I can also incorporate your biblical values into our sessions. We dive into the biblical role of a husband and wife, the role of parents, as well as how your upbringing and past experiences have led you to where you are in your marriage. We can use faith as a bridge to bring you back to a place of peace and connection.
Taking the Next Step: Begin Faith-Based Brainspotting Therapy in Houston
Healing doesn’t mean going back through every painful memory — it means letting your mind and spirit find peace again. As a Christian Therapist in Houston, I use Brainspotting to help clients release what’s been holding them back. In the first session, I will do a deep dive into your life. We will go over your family, educational, health, spiritual and emotional background- all of the elements that make you who you are, so that we can collaboratively come up with specific goals that we should focus on when we are brainspotting. This way treatment is targeted to your specific needs. No one size fits all here.
You don’t have to carry it all on your own. If you’re a highly sensitive woman longing for emotional peace and spiritual healing, I’d love to walk alongside you. As a Christian therapist in Houston who uses brainspotting, I help women release trauma and reconnect with joy — without losing their faith or sensitivity along the way. Book your free consultation for Christian trauma therapy in Houston today and let’s begin your healing journey in a safe, faith-honoring space.
About
My name is Ibinye Osibodu-Onyali. I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and Texas. I help women who are struggling with trauma, anxiety and insomnia. I also help couples learn how to speak each other’s language, date each other again and manage conflict in a non-painful way.
Many of my clients are:
5 Misconceptions About Christian Therapy (and the Truth)
Many people misunderstand what Christian therapy truly is. My blog clears up 5 common misconceptions and shares the real truth about faith-integrated counseling. Discover how it supports emotional and spiritual growth. Read my full post to learn more.
“Therapy Means You Don’t Have Enough Faith” — What a Christian Therapist in Houston Wants You to Know
As a Christian Therapist in Houston, I often hear women say they feel guilty about needing therapy — but seeking help doesn’t mean your faith is weak; it means you’re trusting God to restore you through every resource He provides. And sometimes, a therapist is the resource you need. You wouldn’t feel guilt about needing a doctor to help you with a physical challenge, so why feel guilty about being a woman who needs some counseling to help work you through life’s difficulties? It’s okay to be human. Sometimes, humans have struggles and we need help from professionals. It’s important to know that God sometimes works through His people. And some of His people happen to be mental health professionals.
“Christian Therapy Is Only About Prayer” — Why Faith and Psychology Work Beautifully Together
Faith is at the center of Christian therapy, but it’s not the only tool we use. In my Houston practice, I often combine prayer with approaches like Brainspotting and the Gottman Method to help clients heal emotionally and spiritually. And I’m not saying that prayer isn’t a powerful tool- it is the most powerful tool. Therapy isn’t just about having some listen to you as she nods and smiles. Therapy is about giving you practical skills to move forward from your troubles. Like how to process trauma and anxiety through brainspotting, so that thoughts about the difficult things that have happened to you in the past stop creeping up on you. Imagine being able to do things that used to be fun for you, or hang out with loved ones without a care in the world. Prayer and neuroscience can work hand in hand to help provide lasting change. Give Christian counseling in Houston a try.
“Therapists Won’t Understand My Faith” — The Truth About Working with a Christian Counselor
One of the biggest fears Christians have about therapy is feeling misunderstood — but as a Christian Therapist in Houston, I make faith an essential part of every conversation, not something you have to set aside. Because I really believe that your Christian faith is the bedrock of who you are. We cannot separate you from your identity in Christ. At least we shouldn't have to. Working with a Christian counselor means that you will be understood on a spiritual level and not judged for your beliefs. Therapy becomes a safe space where you can both express yourself emotionally, gain new coping tools to anchor you through life, and all the while providing room for spiritual reflection.
“Christian Therapy Is Just for Women” — How Couples Benefit from Faith-Based Counseling
While many women find healing through Christian therapy, couples can experience transformation too. Through Christian marriage counseling in Houston, I help partners rebuild emotional safety and strengthen their faith together. In counseling, you will learn how to support one another during times of stress. I do this specifically by using the Gottman Method, which I pair with biblical principles. Therapy can help you rebuilt trust, deepen your connection and strengthen your shared faith. You get to learn what healthy communication looks like, how to air your opinions and feelings in a kind, but assertive way, as well as what to do when the inevitable conflict shows up. You’ll also learn how to strengthen friendship, intimacy and connection.
“Therapy Takes Forever” — Why Christian Counseling in Houston Can Bring Real Change Sooner Than You Think
Many people assume Christian counseling in Houston will take years before they feel better — but with brainspotting and a faith-based approach, I’ve seen Houston clients experience real peace in far less time. Therapy does not have to drag on forever- at least that’s not my approach. We create specific and flexible goals, and once those goals have been met, you get to graduate from therapy. This is also why I love brainspotting so much. It cuts down on your time in therapy because we bypass the cit chat and guessing. You get to work on deeper layers of your brain- resulting in faster outcomes. And once we top this off with an invitation to God to take control of each session, you have success.
If you’ve been unsure about trying therapy because of what you’ve heard, now’s the time to see the truth for yourself. As a Christian Therapist in Houston, I help women and couples find healing that honors both their faith and their emotional health.
You don’t have to keep wondering what peace feels like — schedule your free consultation for counseling in Houston today and start your journey toward the calm and clarity God designed you to have.
About
My name is Ibinye Osibodu-Onyali. I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and Texas. I help women who are struggling with trauma, anxiety and insomnia. I also help couples learn how to speak each other’s language, date each other again and manage conflict in a non-painful way.
Many of my clients are:
How Christian Counseling Helps You Navigate Anxiety and Stress
Discover how Christian counseling provides peace and perspective when anxiety and stress feel overwhelming. Learn how faith-based therapy integrates practical tools with spiritual grounding to help you find calm and clarity. Read my full blog to begin your journey toward peace.
Finding Peace in the Chaos: How a Christian Therapist in Houston Helps You Calm Anxiety and Overwhelm
Anxiety can make your world feel smaller by the day — but as a Christian Therapist in Houston, I’ve seen how faith and gentle therapeutic tools can help women and couples find peace that lasts. Going to therapy is not a sign that you are weak or that your faith is lacking. Going to therapy is a sign that you have identified an area of struggle and you are willing to work through it, rather than ignore it. Remember that God sometimes uses His people to help His people. Think about Christ’s mission. He asked the disciples to go and spread the gospel through the ends of the earth, and part of their work was showing compassion and healing broken hearts too. I believe that a part of my job as a Christian therapist in Houston is to help pull people out of struggle and walk them into the light. Because life does not have to feel dark and desolate every day.
I help women and couples find calm through faith and also evidence based, research backed therapy that I spent many years learning. In addition to the faith I have in Jesus, I have also spent many years learning about culture, relationships, the brain, trauma, anxiety and many areas that have held people back. Because in this world, you will have trouble. Jesus already told you that. It’s not only important to reach out to someone who has faith in Jesus, but a professional also trained to help you navigate rough waters. Please do not struggle alone.
Inviting God into the Healing Process: Why Faith Matters in Christian Counseling for Anxiety
Faith doesn’t erase anxiety — but when we invite God into our healing process, we discover a new kind of strength that calms both mind and soul. As Christians, you are already saved by grace. But because we live in a fallen world, there is a lot to grapple with. And sometimes it look sleek wrestling with anxiety, or wrestling with communication issues within your marriage, or not knowing how to make friends as an adulthood, or the aftermath of trauma and pain from your past. Sometimes your heart feels super heavy and you want to be able to speak to someone who will not just get you, but will also be able to provide you practical tools so that you know how to fight through those difficult emotions.
As a Christian therapist in Houston, I believe in a whole person approach. This means I like to look into every domain of your life- I’ll ask about your physical health, emotional health, mental health, relational health and spiritual health. To ignore one part will be to ignore a piece of the puzzle. Now why would I do that? What I am essentially doing is nurturing both emotional and spiritual resilience. And yes, prayer and the word of God are always welcome when you work with me. If you are looking for a faith based therapy approach, Christian counseling for anxiety might just be right for you.
Brainspotting and Faith: A Gentle Path to Releasing Anxiety at Its Root
As a Christian Therapist in Houston, I often use Brainspotting to help clients find calm — not just through insight, but through deeper healing that connects both body and spirit.
Brainspotting helps uncover and heal the hidden emotional roots of anxiety. There are centers in your brain that store trauma as well as big emotions, my job is to give you access to those centers so that you can process it, digest it and no longer need to think about it over and over again. That’s brainspotting in a nutshell. It cuts down on therapy time because we don’t have to talk through what you went through. Rather you get to feel through what you went through.
In addition to brainspotting, I also integrate prayer and scripture if my client is comfortable with it. You get to use every tool you have to help you on your path to wholeness and healing. We cannot ignore your spiritual self if we want to do good therapy. Many Christians appreciate brainspotting’s gentle nature and how it helps the body release tension without reliving trauma. In a nutshell, you don’t have to give me a play by play of all the difficult experiences that happened to you in order to find healing.
For Couples Under Stress: How Christian Marriage Counseling and the Gottman Method Bring You Back Together
When stress creeps into your marriage, it doesn’t just affect your schedule — it impacts your connection. That’s why I use the Gottman Method therapy, grounded in research, to help Houston couples find their way back to each other. Stress, anxiety and miscommunication can create emotional distance in a couple. But you don’t have to throw in the towel, because a skilled marriage therapist can give you practical communication, friendship, intimacy and conflict resolution tools to finally learn how to live in unity and peace. I love to take my couples back to what first brought them together, then tie it into their biblical beliefs about marriage.
I believe that if each party within a couple plays his or her role properly, they will have a strong, healthy marriage. Things get out of hand when we start to step on each other’s toes and forget to embrace the fruit of the Holy Spirit. Through Christian marriage counseling in Houston, I specialize in helping high-performing, highly sensitive Christian couples in Houston find how to manage big emotions, communicate their needs and pour into one another.
Moving Forward with Faith: How to Begin Christian Counseling in Houston
Taking the first step toward counseling can feel intimidating — but as a Christian Therapist in Houston, I want you to know that this step is about grace, not perfection. Therapy begins with a quick 15 minute consultation call. During that call you become familiar with may voice and general demeanor. I believe you can tell a lot about a person from a simple phone interaction. Beyond that, you also get to ask my questions about my process and I learn more about how I can support you. We are essentially assessing if we are the right fit for one another.
After that, if we decide that we are the right fit, my assistant will onboard you into our secure client platform. You’ll fill all the paperwork online, getting you ready for our first virtual therapy session. The first session is an assessment of who you are- we will go through your childhood, family of origin, you school years, educational, career, emotional, physical and relational background. This gives me all the pieces I need to create a collaborative, personalized treatment plan for you.
After that we meet every week to begin to chip away at the goals we set together. We work together until we both feel like you have accomplished what you wanted therapy to do in your life.
You don’t have to keep battling anxiety or stress on your own. As a Christian Therapist in Houston, I help women and couples reconnect with peace, faith, and one another through practical, research-based, and spiritually grounded therapy. If you’re ready to heal from the inside out, schedule your free consultation call for therapy in Houston and discover how God can meet you right where you are — in your healing journey.
About
My name is Ibinye Osibodu-Onyali. I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and Texas. I help women who are struggling with trauma, anxiety and insomnia. I also help couples learn how to speak each other’s language, date each other again and manage conflict in a non-painful way.
Many of my clients are:
Christian Therapist in Houston: Blending Faith and Mental Health
Find peace and purpose with a Christian therapist in Houston. Faith-based counseling for anxiety, trauma, and marriage healing. Schedule a session today.
Christian Therapist in Houston: Finding Healing Through Faith and Therapy
Faith based therapy is a bridge between spiritual and emotional healing. We do not have to separate your Christian values when you come to therapy, because therapy is one avenue through which you can heal your mind. And many people don’t know that your mind, will and emotions are located within your soul. There has been a growing number of Christian women who are seeking therapy that is able to honor their faith, understand their cultural background and also help maintain their mental well being. Please note that therapy does not replace your Christian faith, but it actually strengthens it. When I work with clients, prayer and Bible scriptures are welcome in the room to help guide you in your healing.
Now I am not replacing your pastor or the work of The Holy Spirit. My job is to put forth scriptures that you can study further to help in your journey of healing. I’m not necessarily explaining the scriptures to you, but we can walk through them together. I believe that all the domains of your life- physical, spiritual, emotional, relational, environmental and even career. As a Christian Therapist in Houston, I help clients find strength in both Scripture and science.
How a Christian Perspective Changes the Therapy Experience
When you work with a Christian therapist in Houston, you’re not just talking about coping skills — you’re exploring how God’s truth can bring peace to your mind and heart. Christian counseling in Houston is very unique. Sessions are rooted in your vales, prayer and biblical reflection . We can use biblical truth to guide your decision making. Part of my process is also utilizing different modalities such as brainspotting therapy, to help you break past those stuck points. The goal is always to help you break past trauma, anxiety and other difficult experiences so that you can finally live the full life that you want. We can dive into Christian principles such as what faith looks like in action, dying to self, letting The Holy Spirit do a big work in you, laying your burdens down and renting your mind daily. We can walk the talk.
Brainspotting helps you clear your mind of the clutter so that you can focus on living the full life that you now you have in Christ.
Faith-Based Tools for Anxiety, Trauma, and Marriage Healing
Whether it’s anxiety that won’t quiet down or a marriage weighed down by unspoken hurts, faith-based therapy can offer both comfort and clarity. Faith and therapy come together in the therapy room in unique ways. For example, when you have experienced trauma, you are able to connect back to people in the Bible like Job, who lost everything. You can look at how he reacted, how his friends played a role in his mental health, and finally how The Lord responded to him. Christian trauma counseling in Houston can help you find healing.
If you are dealing with anxiety, there are many biblical examples of people going through anxiety, Whether it is David who had to repeatedly run for his life, or Sarah who was worried about whether or not she would bear a child, or Peter who was questioned about his affiliation with Jesus. There are many examples you can connect with. We can talk about how you connect to the biblical figures, what you learn from their experiences, as well as how you can shift your behavior to learn from theirs. We use this alongside brainspotting to help clear your brain of the funk.
Whether it’s anxiety that won’t quiet down or a marriage weighed down by unspoken hurts, Christian therapy in Houston can offer both comfort and clarity.
Why Houston Christians Are Embracing Faith-Integrated Mental Health Support
Across Houston, more Christians are realizing that faith and therapy don’t compete — they collaborate. We can have a deep love for the Lord and still seek healing through a therapist. Therapy can become an extension of God’s healing hand in the same way that a physician can be an extension of healing when your physical body is experiencing an ailment. It is great to have a professional therapist who is a Christian, who can implement biblical values and help you heal your emotional struggles. We no longer have to look at therapy as a taboo subject. It’s okay to allow someone to help you while still utilizing your faith as aa guiding tool.
How to Choose the Right Christian Therapist in Houston for You
Finding the right Christian therapist in Houston means finding someone who honors your faith while helping you grow through life’s hardest seasons. If you have been looking for a Christian therapist in Houston, here are some ideas for you. Think about demographics such as age, gender, race, nationality, etc. Because if you don’t feel comfortable with your therapist, therapy won’t work for you. Look for someone who has experience in the issue you are struggling with (anxiety, trauma, managing high sensitivity, marriage troubles, etc). It is also important to ask about how the therapist can blend psychology with biblical values. If it is important to you that the therapist is from a specific denomination, then ask. If you have any theological leanings that need to be brought up, then bring them up too.
If you’ve been praying for peace but still feel weighed down by anxiety, trauma, or marital strain, you don’t have to walk this journey alone. As a Christian therapist in Houston, I offer a space where faith and therapy work hand in hand to restore hope and healing. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation for Christian counseling in Houston today to begin your journey toward emotional and spiritual renewal.
About
My name is Ibinye Osibodu-Onyali. I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and Texas. I help women who are struggling with trauma, anxiety and insomnia. I also help couples learn how to speak each other’s language, date each other again and manage conflict in a non-painful way.
Many of my clients are:
Emotional Overload and Trauma: How Brainspotting Brings Peace for Highly Sensitive Women — Guidance from a Christian Therapist in Houston
Feeling emotionally overwhelmed can be exhausting—especially for highly sensitive women carrying past trauma. My blog explores how Brainspotting, guided by a Christian therapist in Houston, helps calm the mind, release pain, and restore lasting peace. Read the full post today.
When Emotions Feel Too Big — The Reality of Trauma for Sensitive Women
When you are a highly sensitive woman, your emotions feel BIG. Whether it’s joy, anger or sadness, you feel very deeply. Now let’s get this straight, it doesn’t mean that your emotions have to control you. You are in fact in complete control over your own emotions. But when you have too many things going on at the same time, it feels as if the world might implode on you. You also are typically on the verge of tears when you’re angry, sad, overwhelmed or even sad. Emotional exhaustion is real because you sometimes get tired of riding the emotional wave. One minute you feel happy, and another minute, something else shows up. You sometimes wonder if you’re normal.
And if you’re a highly sensitive woman who has experienced trauma, these big emotions will be magnified. Normally trauma causes people to be hyper sensitive to what’s around them. So when you’re someone who already feels emotions deeply, who is also going through trauma, it becomes a tidal wave. Sometimes you’re overwhelmed in every area of your life. Work deadlines have you feeling harried. You and your husband are not getting along, and the kids just won’t give you a break. So in every domain, you feel like the burden is so heavy.
This is where I come in. As a Christian therapist in Houston who is especially versed in working with highly sensitive women, I understand that you can’t stop yourself from feeling so deeply. It’s simply how God wired you. My job is to understand the level of emotional depth that you bring to the table. I’ll show you how to come to acceptance with your sensitivity, learn how to use your emotions for good, so you don’t feel like you’re weighed down all the time.
Brainspotting as a Safe Space for Emotional Release
Brainspotting is one of my golden tools for processing trauma and deep emotions. I find that it takes much less time than traditional talk therapy. Maybe you’re sick and tired of talking about your life experiences over and over again. You’re sick and tired of turning life events over in your head without a solution. Well brainspotting helps to pinpoint the trauma, actually process it and finally digest it so that it stops living rent free in your head. You won’t forget that the trauma happened to you, but it will no longer elicit a strong emotional reaction when you think about or talk about it.
In the moment when you’re brainspotting, it might feel emotionally heavy because the memories come flooding back. You will also feel the emotions in your physical body, but as time goes on, you will actually feel a sense of relief and resolution. Just like a tidal wave. It might come in fast at first, but it eventually returns back to its source.
I especially love that brainspotting is gentle. You can unpack trauma and go right back to work afterwards. Will there be tears involved? Perhaps. Is it always easy? No. But it tends to be quicker and more effective over time than traditional talk therapy methods for trauma. Some of my clients love it because they don’t have to do so much talking. It sounds strange, but I’ve sat with clients in silence for about an hour and they’ve walked away with massive relief.
Brainspotting is ideal for highly sensitive women because you don’t have to spend so much time trying to express the myriad of emotions that are coming up for you. We go straight to the source of where the actual emotions are being held in your brain. No beating about the bush. Maybe it’s time to work with a trauma therapist in Houston who offers brainspotting sessions.
The Spiritual Side of Healing — Inviting God into the Therapy Process
As a Christian therapist in Houston, I hold the belief that you should not have to separate your spiritual beliefs from your mental health. Your mind, will and emotions are stored within your soul. So that being said, how can we separate your beliefs from your healing? It’s impossible. Your faith is a matter of your soul. Therapeutic healing does not have to conflict with your faith. There is lots of room for prayer and Bible scriptures in the therapy room. After all, “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7). As you feel yourself being pulled by the emotions that will undoubtedly come up as we process trauma, it is important to ground yourself. Sometimes clients are silently praying as they are brainspotting. I can also pray with you if you so desire and I love to pull scriptures of comfort so that you have The Holy Spirit guiding you in your healing.
A skilled Christian therapist in Houston can hold both trauma and faith in balance. I can put on my therapist hat and also invite faith into the room. The two are not mutually exclusive. I can understand how trauma has affected you, but also understand that you have Jehovah Rapha who can heal every broken heart. You do not have to sideline your beliefs when you work with me. Therapy can simply be viewed as part of your healing journey with God. Sometimes God sends you a professional whom He works through.
How Brainspotting Reduces Emotional Burnout and Restores Mental Energy
After you’ve experienced either one or several traumatic events, it begins to take a toll on you. You might feel irritable- snapping at everyone around you. You find yourself bursting into tears or your emotions are all over the place. Trauma will do a number on you. Trauma is also emotionally exhausting. You get tired of crying, looking over your shoulders, feeling unsafe, isolated, worrying if something bad will ever happen again. It’s rough. Brainspotting helps reset your nervous system and restore clarity. It’s almost like all the heavy thoughts finally clear out of the way so that you can get back to the real you. No more doubting yourself, no more fear, no more hiding, You get to show up just as you want to be. Freedom!
Imagine being able to connect with new friends, go out like you used to, without worrying about getting hurt. You can get on a plane and travel without worrying for 7 hours. You can deeply connect with a romantic interest and show up authentically. Little things won’t trigger you anymore. No more nightmares, scary dreams, worrying, crying yourself to sleep. You can lay down at night and actually look forward to rest.
As a Black therapist in Houston, not only do I understand the unique needs of highly sensitive women, I also understand the importance of helping Black women heal from trauma. I know how you have to hold everything on your shoulders. I know how difficult it is for you to even trust someone enough to open up to them. You don’t have to pretend to be someone you aren’t. Show up just as you are. You don’t have to explain your life or culture to me. I just get it. And if you choose to wear your bonnet, I’m all for it.
You Don’t Have to Be Strong All the Time — Let Support Hold You for Once
You don’t have to continue to hold it all together. You need a space where you can finally open up and be vulnerable. You get to talk about all the things that have held you down for years. You don’t have to be the strong woman when you are in therapy, you get to be the healing woman. I want you to know that there is strength in being able to open up and be honest. Just lay your burdens down.
If you have been feeling weighed down, know that there is someone out there who is ready to support you through your trials. You’ll feel seen, you don’t have to be the strong woman, and you can just breathe easy.
You’ve carried those heavy emotions long enough — it’s time to let someone else hold space for you.
As a Christian therapist in Houston, I use Brainspotting Trauma Therapy to help highly sensitive women process trauma gently and reconnect with peace. You don’t have to keep bottling it up or doing it all alone. Book your free consultation for trauma counseling in Houston today and experience emotional relief with care that honors both your heart and your faith.
About
My name is Ibinye Osibodu-Onyali. I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and Texas. I help women who are struggling with trauma, anxiety and insomnia. I also help couples learn how to speak each other’s language, date each other again and manage conflict in a non-painful way.
Ready to get rid of anxiety, finally kick insomnia or for marriage counseling?