Music and counseling
How i like to use music in counseling:
🕊️ 1. Set the Tone with Worship Music
Before or at the start of a session:
• Play soft instrumental or worship music in the background as clients arrive or during prayer.
• This can calm anxiety, quiet distractions, and create a Christ-centered atmosphere.
Examples:
• Instrumental versions of hymns
• Soaking worship (e.g., Bethel, Upper Room)
• Psalms put to music (e.g., Shane & Shane’s “Psalms” album)
🎵 2. Use Lyrics as Counseling Tools
How:
• Choose a Christ-centered song that aligns with a client’s current struggle.
• Discuss specific lyrics like you would a passage of Scripture:
• “What does this lyric say about God?”
• “How does this reflect your situation?”
Example:
• Struggling with fear? Use “You Make Me Brave” by Amanda Cook.
• Feeling unseen? Use “Jireh” by Maverick City Music to talk about God’s provision.
đź“– 3. Connect Music to Scripture
Help clients see how truth in music flows from the Word of God.
Example Exercise:
• Play a song (or read the lyrics).
• Ask the client to find Scripture that supports the main message.
• Discuss how the Word reinforces what the song proclaims.
🙌 4. Encourage Music for Personal Devotion
Music can be homework!
Assignments:
• Create a personalized worship playlist.
• Journal while listening to a specific song.
• Sing or meditate on a hymn during morning devotion.
❤️ 5. Use Music to Minister to the Heart
Sometimes when a client can’t find the words to pray or express pain, music speaks for them.
Examples:
• Songs of lament (e.g., “Though You Slay Me” by Shane & Shane)
• Songs of hope (e.g., “Firm Foundation” by Cody Carnes)
Let music become part of their emotional and spiritual vocabulary.
🎧 Sample Homework Assignment:
Listen to “Goodness of God” every morning for 7 days.
• Journal 3 things God has been faithful in.
• Write out Psalm 23 as a personal prayer.
Final Tip:
Guard Discernment. Not all “Christian” music is biblically sound. Choose songs rooted in Scripture and aligned with sound doctrine.
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