Problems are part of life
There are times in our lives when everything seems stuck or tangled. Our thoughts keep circling around the same problem, and we lose perspective and clarity. We ask ourselves about the meaning of life, doubt our own value, or feel as if we can barely catch our breath to continue daily life.
In such situations, people sometimes question their faith or religious commitments, or they may doubt the life path they have chosen (marriage, religious life, etc.).
What is meant by psychological counseling?
Psychological counseling provides support in a specific difficult life situation, during a period of reorientation, mourning, personal or social conflicts, or existential questions about meaning. Its goal is to help process, clarify, or find solutions for these challenges.
Psychological counseling is not psychotherapy and not a medical treatment. It does not treat physical or mental illnesses.
What can you expect in a counseling session?
I take time for you and offer an open ear for your concerns. We look at your (difficult) situation together. Through targeted questions and observations, we work out solutions that help you positively change or overcome your circumstances. You should leave the counseling feeling strengthened, happier, and more satisfied.
Who do I counsel?
The service is available to individuals or couples experiencing one or more of the situations mentioned above.
My counseling is also a resource for people who want to live a Christian marriage, are considering a spiritual path, or are already on one.
It is not necessary to be Catholic; the counseling is open to people of other or no religious affiliations.
How can you get in touch with me?
You can reach me at the parish office, by email, or by phone:
Christina Bonacker
Via di Santa Maria dell’Anima, 65
00186 Rome, Italy
0039 06 68.28.18.07
0039 339 6382471
The first session is for getting to know each other personally. During this session, you and I will decide whether we want to continue working together—and if so, in what way.
Possible follow-up sessions are scheduled together.
Your concerns are, of course, treated confidentially.
A few words about me and my religious standpoint
I was born in 1969 in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, and grew up in a Catholic environment. In the following years, I had close contact with the Evangelical-Lutheran Church and various religious communities. I lived for eight years in a Benedictine community.
Since 2006, I have been entrusted with pastoral and charitable duties at the parish of Santa Maria dell’Anima. From my Christian perspective, I aim to help people regain joy, well-being, and inner peace through professional counseling during difficult stages of life.
To build a solid foundation for this work—alongside my professional duties and in direct contact with people of all ages, denominations, and backgrounds—I have completed the following studies and training:
- Theology (distance learning, Würzburg Cathedral School)
- Christian Ethics (Archdiocese of Paderborn)
- Certified Pastoral Counselor (ALH)
- Basic Course in Psychology (ILS)
- Certified Psychological Counselor (ALH)
- Preparation for the examination as a non-medical practitioner for psychotherapy (ALH)
- Client-/Person-centered Counseling (Archdiocese of Paderborn)
Psychological counseling is part of the pastoral ministry of the German Catholic parish Santa Maria dell’Anima.
It is offered free of charge; donations are welcome.
Christina Bonacker
(Certified Pastoral Counselor and Certified Psychological Counselor)
