Chris Appleton

Director of Partnerships

My role is to equip churches and Christians in the workplace with relevant training, consultation and therapeutic resources. I’m passionate about supporting their vision to build emotionally and spiritually healthy communities—places where people can grow, heal and thrive.

Chris, can you give us a snapshot of your personal and professional background?

I grew up in a Christian home and my relationship with God slowly grew over the years. When I was 13, I made a personal commitment to having a relationships with Christ. Then, after a period of doubt and questioning in my early 20’s, I rededicated my life to God in earnest and attended Bible College. It was there that I built a strong and biblical foundation for my life and career. Since then, I earned a Masters of Social Work and have served in child protection and as a social work therapist.

What is the connection between your faith and your therapy practice? 

I’ve always felt a deep calling to integrate my Christian faith with the work I do as a therapist. My approach combines the research and tools of psychology with the truth and hope found in Scripture. It’s a profound privilege to walk with individuals as they strengthen their emotional and mental health, experience spiritual healing and deepen their relationship with God.

I’m passionate about helping people find freedom from the burdens that weigh them down. I love seeing clients grow in self-awareness, experience inner healing and develop stronger connections—with God, with themselves and with others.

I also carry a special burden for pastors and ministry leaders. It’s essential for those in leadership to care for their own mental and spiritual well-being. Therapy can offer a safe, supportive space for pastors to process personal and family challenges. As they do this important work, they build the strength, resilience and endurance needed to navigate the demands of ministry in a healthy, sustainable way.

In your new role, how will you work with partners and churches?  

My role is to support churches and Christians in business as they create emotionally and spiritually healthy communities where mental health services are accepted and accessible. 

I love helping congregations see the connection between faith and mental health by providing training on relevant topics like:

• Mental health and faith
• Men’s issues
• Conflict resolution
• Parenting
• Communication
• Healthy boundaries
• Spiritual formation
• Supportive groups for pastors and leaders

I am also passionate about making therapy more accessible by working with churches to explore options for local and on-site therapeutic services, subsidized therapy through our MemberCare+ program and employee assistance plans.  

What about churches who already offer pastoral counselling? 

I am often a resource for pastors and leaders and offer consultation as they support and counsel their congregations. Complex relational issues, trauma and mental health often require specialized intervention and an investment of time beyond the scope of pastoral responsibilities or the support of a friend. This is another way that By Peaceful Waters comes alongside, providing professional and qualified therapy as people pursue healing and wholeness.