Jesus and Therapy [Book Review]

Tabitha Yates’ Jesus and Therapy is a thoughtful, heartfelt, and much-needed contribution to the conversation about mental health and faith within the Christian community. With compassion and clarity, Yates challenges the false narrative that trusting Jesus and seeking therapy are somehow incompatible. Instead, she presents a vision of wholeness that honors Christ while affirming the God-given wisdom and tools offered by mental health professionals.

The central theme of the book is beautifully summarized in Yates’ own words:

“Jesus is not at war with mental health professionals. You can walk hand in hand with both Jesus and a therapist. In fact, you are doing the bravest thing of all by allowing someone in who can walk you through the hard things. We were never meant to go on this journey alone.”

This perspective will resonate deeply with many readers who have wrestled with the stigma surrounding therapy in church contexts, reminding them that leaning on others is not a sign of weakness but an act of courage and faith.

Yates writes with vulnerability, weaving her personal experiences into a larger conversation about healing, community, and the integration of faith and psychology. She confronts misconceptions often heard in Christian spaces, such as the idea that prayer alone should resolve mental health struggles or that seeking therapy indicates a lack of trust in God. By addressing these barriers directly, she opens the door for healthier, grace-filled conversations in churches and Christian families.

The book is also highly practical. Yates provides insights not only for individuals seeking healing but also for pastors, ministry leaders, and Christian counselors who desire to walk alongside others. Her guidance encourages leaders to foster church cultures where therapy is not taboo but embraced as part of holistic discipleship.

Who Is The Intended Audience

That said, it is important to note who this book is, and is not, for. As someone who did not grow up with church hurt or childhood abuse, I personally felt like someone standing outside, looking into her conversation. Does not mean it was not edifying, but I personally felt a disconnect.

Christians or ministry leaders who are firmly opposed to counseling or who hold a strong distrust of mental health professionals will likely struggle with this book’s message. Yates does not try to appease these viewpoints but instead unapologetically affirms therapy as a vital means of God’s healing work. Readers should also be aware that the book contains several trigger warnings, as Yates addresses difficult issues head-on. Those engaging with this resource should prepare themselves emotionally and consider pacing their reading if necessary.

Our Thoughts

Overall, Jesus and Therapy is a hopeful, challenging, and affirming resource that bridges the gap between faith and mental health. It invites Christians to embrace both the spiritual and the psychological dimensions of healing without shame or guilt. For those open to its message, it offers encouragement, liberation, and a renewed sense of God’s care through both prayer and professional support. Pastors, ministry leaders, and Christian counselors will find in it a valuable tool for their own growth and for equipping the people they serve. We give it a 4 out of 5.