The Therapeutic Relationship (Part 1)
Introduction
At Cross Counselling, we believe the true power of therapy lies in the quality of the relationship between therapist and client.
This series of articles is designed to clarify what clients can expect from us and help those considering therapy decide whether Cross Counselling is the right fit. Writing these reflections also helps us stay accountable to our values and refine our practice.
Relationship Before Prescription
Counselling techniques and Scripture can be incredibly helpful—but only within the context of a strong therapeutic relationship.
If a therapist appears detached, more focused on fixing a problem than truly seeing the person behind it, the result often feels impersonal and prescriptive. Clients may feel dismissed, rushed, or even judged. But most people don’t seek therapy for a quick fix—they want to be heard, understood, and supported as they process their experiences.
Equal and Complex
Every person who walks through our doors is treated with dignity and care—not because of what they’ve achieved or how they present, but because they are made in the image of God. That means we approach each client as a unique individual—equal, valuable, and deeply complex.
Before offering techniques or Scripture, we prioritise building a safe, meaningful relationship.
What Builds the Therapeutic Relationship?
We believe three qualities are essential to a healthy therapeutic relationship—one that fosters healing, clarity, and growth:
Being Genuine (Romans 12:9)
Steadfast Compassion (Romans 12:10)
Empathic Understanding (Romans 12:15)
These qualities are drawn from Romans 12 and form the heart of how we counsel at Cross Counselling.
1. Being Genuine
“Let love be genuine…” (Romans 12:9)
Therapists at Cross Counselling don’t hide behind a professional facade. We meet clients as real people. This authenticity builds trust—not through perfection, but through honesty. When clients see their therapist isn’t pretending to have it all together, it gives them permission to be real too. And that’s where true transformation begins.
2. Steadfast Compassion
“Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honour…” (Romans 12:10)
The Greek word here—philadelphia—speaks of brotherly or sisterly love. In Christ, we are kin. That shapes how we counsel.
Clients are never seen as projects. We extend steadfast compassion because every person is worthy of love and honour. This kind of consistent, respectful care creates the safety people need to face what feels shameful or overwhelming.
3. Empathic Understanding
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” (Romans 12:15)
We walk with our clients. We celebrate their joys and sit with them in their pain. Therapy is not clinical detachment; it is relational presence. Empathic understanding means we don’t offer quick solutions—we offer ourselves, fully engaged and emotionally attuned.