Immanuel Approach

What Is the Immanuel Approach?

The Immanuel Approach is a spiritually-integrated, trauma-informed method of emotional healing developed by Christian psychiatrist Dr. Karl Lehman. It combines principles of neuroscience, attachment theory, and Christian spirituality to help individuals experience God's compassionate presence in the midst of emotional pain, trauma, or personal challenges.

Rather than focusing solely on analyzing or retelling difficult memories, the Immanuel Approach helps clients:

• Strengthen their connection to God as an active and caring presence

• Build internal stability and emotional resilience through joyful, positive memories

• Explore unresolved emotions or trauma with a deep sense of safety and support

• Experience healing as a relational and spiritual process, not just a psychological one

What Makes the Immanuel Approach Unique?

Unlike traditional therapy methods that may focus solely on cognitive processing or emotional release, the Immanuel Approach:

• Prioritizes relational connection — with God and others — as the foundation for healing.

• Engages the brain's relational circuits, increasing emotional resilience and reducing overwhelm.

• Strengthens a person’s internal sense of safety, allowing them to approach trauma or distress without re-traumatization.

• Facilitates direct, personal experiences with God, rather than simply talking about God or faith.

Clients are gently guided to recall positive memories of feeling connected, safe, or thankful — which activates joy and relational connection — before exploring areas of struggle or pain. From that place of stability, individuals are better able to face and process past wounds, often experiencing God's presence and care in ways that are deeply transformative.

What to Expect

• Start with connection: Each session begins by focusing on a peaceful or joyful memory to help you feel safe, grounded, and connected with God.

• Invite God’s presence: We gently invite God's presence into the process, trusting Him to guide and bring comfort.

• Follow your pace: You decide how deep to go — there’s no pressure to revisit anything you're not ready for.

• Explore with support: As thoughts, emotions, or memories arise, we stay attuned to God’s care and your needs in the moment.

• End with peace: Sessions often close by reflecting on what felt meaningful and ensuring you leave feeling settled and supported.

Who Is It For?

The Immanuel Approach may be right for you if you:

• Want to integrate your Christian faith into the healing process

• Are dealing with emotional pain, trauma, or grief

• Feel spiritually disconnected or stuck

• Prefer a gentle, relational approach to therapy