How We Use Personality Tests in Counseling

8/1/2025

At Prism Counseling & Coaching, we regularly integrate spiritual assessments to support deeper emotional and relational healing. Our favorite is the Christian DISC®. Developed in-house, it is a comprehensive and faith-rooted personality framework. Unlike generic tools, this biblical DISC assessment was created specifically for churches, counseling practices, and Christian organizations. It uses the trusted DISC framework, long used in professional settings, and enhances it with Scripture and spiritual insight.

Many clients first hear about the Christian DISC®, a biblical disc test, when seeking a tool that goes beyond surface-level typology. They want something spiritually grounded that speaks to their lived experiences and personal growth goals. Counselors at our practice often use it to:

Explore communication styles in couples therapy
Strengthen leadership skills for pastors and ministry leaders
Deepen self-awareness during personal growth or faith deconstruction
Help clients reconnect with their spiritual identity

While there are free tools online, many of our clients have tried a biblical disc assessment free and found it too simplistic or ungrounded. The Christian DISC® offers a robust 22–25 page report with real theological depth, making it a great alternative to both free quizzes and secular workplace assessments.

We also appreciate that this christian personality test is built for real-world ministry, not just theory. It helps clients grow spiritually while also becoming better listeners, team members, and leaders.
Finally, if you’re searching for a tool that reflects the life and character of Christ, the jesus personality test section of the Christian DISC® invites reflection on how your natural style can be transformed by grace.

Whether you’re a pastor, therapist, or spiritual seeker, this tool offers deep insight and growth for your journey.

When Summer Makes You Sad: Understanding Reverse Seasonal Affective Disorder

7/19/2023

Emilia had always been a creature of spring. The fresh blooms, soft pastels, and the celebration of Easter — these were the things that filled her heart with a profound sense of joy. But as spring gradually gave way to summer, and the blossoms yielded to a fiery red sun, Emilia could feel a familiar exhaustion creeping into her spirit.

In Phoenix, Arizona, where she lived, the summers were relentless. Come late June or early July, temperatures regularly soared above 110 degrees or more for weeks at a time. The sun blazed and the desert landscape outside her window seemed to ripple and waver in the blistering heat. The city that had been her beloved home began to feel more like a furnace. Emilia, once a social butterfly, started to retreat indoors to escape the sweltering heat. Her weekends, once bursting with excitement as she explored the trails of Piestewa Peak or enjoyed outdoor picnics at Encanto Park, had now been reduced to a monotonous existence within the confines of her small air-conditioned apartment.

There are ways to beat the "sunshine blues"

Emilia noticed her mood shift as the temperatures rose. Restlessness pervaded her nights, and her appetite dwindled as well. She could not shake off an uncharacteristic irritability that tinged her social interactions, even with the people she cared about. A sense of profound sadness and unease would wash over her for no discernible reason. It felt as if the sun that she once worked and played under was now a never-ending heat lamp under which she wilted.

She had heard about Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD), but her knowledge was limited to the "winter blues" common in colder climates. Living under the long summers of Phoenix, it never crossed her mind that she could be facing a reverse form of the disorder until she stumbled upon an article while mindlessly scrolling through her phone one sleepless night. She read about the symptoms of Reverse Seasonal Affective Disorder and it all began to make sense.

What is Reverse Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is linked to the change in seasons, often in temperate climates during the winter when the reduction in sunlight can affect an individual's serotonin levels, leading to (or worsening) depression. The reverse version, called Reverse Seasonal Affective Disorder (RSAD), tends to occur in warm climates during the summer. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, RSAD symptoms include trouble sleeping (insomnia), poor appetite, weight loss, and agitation or anxiety.

In hot and sunny places like Phoenix, Arizona, people can experience RSAD. One might think that in a city that sees more than 300 sunny days per year, seasonal depression would be nearly non-existent. However, the intense heat can lead to many of the same symptoms as winter-onset Seasonal Affective Disorder. For instance, the unbearable temperatures might prevent residents from leaving their homes, leading to a decrease in social activities, exercise, and overall mood. RSAD can also compound already existing mental health disorders such as major depressive disorder and various anxiety disorders.

One might think that in a city that sees more than 300 sunny days per year, seasonal depression would be nearly non-existent. However, the intense heat can lead to many of the same symptoms as winter-onset Seasonal Affective Disorder.

It can even impact an individual's spirituality. A person's relationship with God is often a source of solace and hope, a wellspring from which they derive strength and resilience. However, pervasive feelings of anxiety, restlessness, and depression associated with RSAD can contribute to feelings of disconnection from oneself, one's family, friends, and even one's faith. If a person is already dealing with some type of spiritual struggle, such as dealing with grief or loss, the physiological effects of RSAD can compound the already existing feelings of dispair and isolation.

Strategies for Dealing with RSAD
So, how can one combat summertime sadness? The strategies for dealing with summer-onset RSAD are somewhat similar to those dealing with winter-onset SAD:

Light Management: While winter SAD often benefits from more light, RSAD might require less. Blackout curtains or eye masks can help regulate the amount of light you're exposed to, especially when the sun comes out earlier and stays out later.
Maintain a Regular Schedule: Keeping a consistent sleep and eating schedule can help regulate your body’s internal clock and reduce symptoms.
Stay Cool: This one can be tough in places like Phoenix, but try to stay as cool as possible. Overexposure to heat can exacerbate feelings of discomfort or agitation. Take a dip in a pool or try taking a cold shower before bed.
Physical Activity: Regular physical activity can help reduce symptoms of depression and boost your mood. While doing physical activity outside is not advisable if there is a heat warning, you can exercise indoors at home or find a local gym that is air-conditioned and has plenty of space to move around.
Stay Connected: Even if the heat makes going out less appealing, it's crucial to maintain social connection. Use technology to stay connected if physical meetings are not possible.
Professional Help: As with any form of depression, it's important to seek help from your doctor as well as a counselor if your symptoms are severe or persist for an extended period.

Spirituality can provide an oasis, a place of refreshment from the intensity of the outside world.

Creating a Spiritual Oasis
Various spiritual practices can serve as a resource for those dealing with RSAD. Spiritual practices like meditation, prayer, mindfulness, journaling, reading scripture, or simply spending quiet time in reflection can help manage symptoms. Such practices often encourage the cultivation of inner peace and acceptance, helping individuals weather the emotional storms brought on by the changing seasons. By promoting a sense of connectedness and offering a different perspective on suffering, spirituality can provide a buffer against the effects of RSAD. Moreover, integrating spirituality into one's daily routine can foster consistency, which is key in managing RSAD. In essence, spirituality can provide an oasis, a place of refreshment amidst the intensity of the outside world.

Armed with this newfound knowledge, Emilia decided to confront her summertime sadness. She first visited her doctor who talked to her about possible antidepressant solutions. Even if she wasn't ready to try medication, her doctor recommended that she see a therapist or counselor. Being a person of faith, Emilia sought advice from a Christian counselor who helped her implement various spiritual resources and practical strategies. Blackout curtains were hung, sleep schedules were established, a daily devotional time was implemented, and an exercise routine was followed. Emilia also tried her best to maintain her social connections by connecting with friends over iced coffee and getting more involved in summertime activities at her church.

Emilia even began to appreciate the parts of summer that she enjoyed. Pool parties with her family and tubing down the Salt River with friends helped her stay connected (and cool). She was also able to escape the heat by taking weekend trips up north to Prescott and Flagstaff where temperatures were cooler. When she was at home, she learned to appreciate the early mornings before the sun claimed the sky and decided to add a devotional time to her morning routine. She also looked forward to late evenings when the sky filled with dark but welcome rain clouds from the evening monsoons. She'd sit on her balcony at these times, soaking in the cool monsoon breezes, letting the tranquility wash over her like soothing rain. These became her moments of meditation, of connection to the world outside her doors. It was not an easy journey. There were days when the weight of the blazing heat seemed too much, days when the shadows of her mind seemed longer than the shadows cast by the noonday sun. But every morning, she reminded herself that it was not a battle to be won in a day. It was a process, a dance with the sun, a rhythm she had to find and follow. The weeks continued and before long, cooler temperatures returned just in time for her to hang up her autumn decorations.

Through her struggle with RSAD, Emilia learned to navigate the ebb and flow of her moods. She learned the importance of understanding and listening to herself (body and soul), of finding beauty in unexpected places, and of finding strength in vulnerability. Most importantly, she learned that even the harshest of summers give way to gentler seasons, and it was her task to weather the storm, to keep going even under the harshest sun, until the skies softened once again.

RSAD is one example of how deeply our environment and health are intertwined. By understanding the signs and symptoms, as well as possible solutions, we can better manage the effects this conditions may have on our lives. If you or a loved one might be dealing with RSAD, don't hesitate to reach out for help. You are worth it. And remember, you're not alone on this journey. If you're looking for support, we at Prism Counseling & Coaching are just a phone call away and would be more than happy to explore counseling options with you. Here's to brighter days ahead, regardless of the season.

The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice; this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.

Avoiding Ministry Burnout

5/2/2023

I’ve counseled a lot of pastors over the years, which is a privilege, but can also be heartbreaking. Pastors are human, and they struggle with the same pressures that everyone does. Yet there can be an unspoken expectation that pastors have to be perfect.

1 Timothy 3:2 indicates that a leader should be “above reproach” and “must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation.” Paul sets the standard high, and we are wise to follow his instruction, but we tend to drain all grace out of these guidelines. Apart from Christ, the New Testament doesn’t present spiritual leaders as flawless, even after they receive the Holy Spirit. Paul lost his temper and got into a disagreement with Barnabas that became so intense that they split ways (Acts 15:36-41). Peter turned away from those who needed the gospel in order to appease the in-crowd (Galatians 2:11-14). External pressure proved to be too much and they caved in. These examples are not an excuse for sin, but we need to be aware of external pressure so that we don’t give into internal temptation. With all of the pressure to perform, some pastors succumb to stress, burnout, and even scandal.

It’s easy to become absorbed in a frenzy of activity. Leaders often take on too many responsibilities, or other people’s problems overwhelm them. A lot of ministers absorb the anxiety and stress from their congregants and staff. They say “yes” too much and overstep their own limits. When the focus is on taking care of other people, time with God and family can fall by the wayside. How do we prevent burnout? Here are three tactics that I suggest for pastors and ministers that are feeling the strain.

A lot of ministers absorb the anxiety and stress from their congregants and staff. They say “yes” too much and overstep their own limits.

1. Rest

Find time for rest. While we don’t have to follow a strict observance of the Sabbath, the general principle is still beneficial and restorative. In the words of Christ: “’The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath’” (Mark 2:27). I suggest resting daily, weekly, and every few months.

Have a daily sabbath time, where you cut off all work at a certain time in the evening.
Also, take whole days off every week. You want at least one day off, but ideally two days off in a row. Two sleeps in a row, without having to wake up to work, can really help you recover from the week.
Take a vacation every few months. Get out of the house and get away. If you can’t get out of town, at least plan a “staycation”, where you stay at a nearby hotel or someone’s home to get away from the distraction of work. Create space in your life so you can breathe.

2. Nourish Your Spiritual Life

Focus on feeding your soul. Do this by connecting with God, connecting with family, and connecting with close friends.
Have alone time with God on a regular basis. Implement silence with prayer so that you have time to listen for God’s voice.

“If a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church?”

— 1 Timothy 3:5

Make your family a priority. Carve out time to date your spouse as well as other times to spend with the kids as a family. These don’t have to be expensive outings. A trip to the park is sufficient for family day. An evening drive to get ice cream can be a memorable date. The point is to intentionally connect with your spouse and your kids. This reflects the passage we mentioned earlier where Paul makes the point that “if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church?” (1 Timothy 3:5).
Develop deeper friendships with two or three other believers. It’s great if you have friends within your congregation, but it can be beneficial to have friends outside of the church who are detached from the nitty-gritty of what’s going on. Connecting with your loved ones in meaningful ways will go far in feeling less alone.

3. Set Limits

Finally, you want to set boundaries. Get over the messiah complex — you cannot do it all.

Become accustomed to saying “no.”
Don’t be afraid to delegate and ask others to take over certain responsibilities. This means letting go.
Consider getting a personal assistant to answer emails and to screen phone calls.
When you counsel your parishioners, don’t get overly involved in their problems. Only meet with them for two or three sessions, then refer them out to a faith-based counselor in the community.

What should you do if you're on the edge?

Get away. An emergency sabbatical is better than just quitting on the fly. What your soul may be wanting and needing is a break.
Get some counseling. Find a counselor or therapist who has experience working with pastors. Online counseling may be an option if you live in a small community, and you don’t have a counselor close by.
Don’t make any major decisions until you are able to step back, get some rest, and hear from God.
More than anything, be prayerful.
Gain some wisdom from other leaders you respect. 

Take good care of yourself, so that you can more effectively tend to God’s people.

Rev. Tres Adames, MDiv, BCPC

Tres works with pastors and leaders struggling with issues around leadership, stress, boundaries, and self-differentiation. He has been working with pastors and leaders for over 10 years.

Meet Tres

Responding to Those Deconstructing

6/14/2022

by Rev. Tres Adames, MDiv, BCPC

How pastors, families, and churches can be there for those who are deconstructing

In the summer of last year, well-known evangelical pastor, David Jeremiah, declared that those leaving evangelicalism (termed "Exvangelicals") could be an indication of the beginning of the end times. While this was merely speculative, and might have intended to help current believers feel better about what they were seeing, this approach does little to build empathy with those who have already felt hurt by the church. The posture of a Christian (especially pastors) should be one of compassion and understanding, not othering (especially demonizing) those who think differently than we do. It also seems counter to the evangelical message itself. We should pursue and love others, especially when they have genuine questions around God, faith, and their purpose and direction in life.

As a pastoral counselor, I have been working for several years with clients who have deconstructed their faith. I have personally deconstructed and reconstructed my theology many times, so the process doesn't scare me — I'm ready to go there with clients. Meanwhile, I know that many churches and pastors are trying to figure out how to respond to those in their congregations undergoing deconstruction. They don't want to demonize other people, but have a real heart for those who are hurting and seeking answers. From my own experience, here are a few things to understand and consider if you are working with someone who is deconstructing:

Listen to the podcast version of this article:

**Many people who are experiencing a deconstruction of their faith don't even want to deconstruct.**

1. Many people who are experiencing a deconstruction of their faith don't even want to deconstruct. Questioning one's faith can be an emotionally exhaustive process that may lead a person to a place where they feel like they may lose their church, their family, and their friends. There's a lot on the line so try to be sensitive to this. Many have previously been ardent believers, faithful givers, and actively involved in their local church.

2. If someone is honest with you about their doubts, view it as an act of bravery.
Many people who are deconstructing are afraid of being rejected by people who have been close to them for years. Many are afraid of simply being labeled a "backslider." Even if they don't experience this reaction, they still may not be completely comfortable with spiritual conversations if they feel like they might be misunderstood. Try to listen more than you speak.

3. Understand that people land in different places.
Not everyone who deconstructs gives up on faith altogether. Some change churches or denominations. Others might even opt to stay in their current community but adjust their personal beliefs. Others choose to identify as "spiritual-but-not-religious." Some might choose to become agnostic or even atheist, but others might not choose a label at all. Spirituality is a process, so it's important not to judge someone in the middle of their unfolding story.

Spirituality is a process, so it's important not to judge someone in the middle of their unfolding story.

4. Don't push them into reconstruction.
While deconstruction can be a precursor toward the reconstruction of a deeper, more vibrant faith, the process is so incredibly unique to each person. It's tempting to suggest that they should "still focus on Jesus" or not "throw out the baby with the bath water," but some people may need to go through a season where they step away from faith altogether, especially if they have trauma around religion or if they experienced abuse in the church. Such tragedy can deeply affect a person's perception and experience of God, so they may need to distance themselves so they can disentangle and heal.

Even if you are concerned that the person is going down the wrong path, remember that it's the Holy Spirit who saves, not you.

5. Love no matter what.
Seek to fulfill Jesus' second greatest commandment — if you love God, love others. Many approaches to evangelism focus on using relationships to lead people to Christ. Yet, it's important to realize that this is a completely different situation. Don't just use the relationship to evangelize. Many of those who are deconstructing understand the gospel quite well and can articulate it by heart. Besides, no one wants to just be someone else's "project." We all desire to have authentic connection and validation by others. Simply love and let go of the outcome. Even if you are concerned that the person is going down the wrong path, remember that it's the Holy Spirit who saves, not you. Your only call is to love and be Christ to other people.

6. Do your own introspection as a leader and as a church.
None of this means that you have to deconstruct yourself. If it's distressing to talk to someone who is deconstructing, it might be time to work on yourself. Asking yourself (and your church) some hard questions can be incredibly valuable. I've listed some ideas below. These questions are less about finding concrete answers and more about what you discover as a result of having these conversations:

Is it possible for someone to be a part of our church who holds differing beliefs than that of the official doctrines of our church and/or denomination? If so, how? If not, why?
How can our church be a place where people can wrestle with authentic spiritual questions and raw emotions without facing negative consequences (such being viewed with suspicion, treated differently, or even asked to leave)?
If spirituality is a process, what does that mean? What does it look like?
How has my own faith changed during the past 5 years? 10 years? What challenges have I faced that rocked my faith? What did I learn and how did I process through that?
Who can I go to when I have my own questions (or even doubts) about my faith? Do I feel safe asking those questions with certain people? Are there some people I don't feel safe having those conversations with?
Does someone else's deconstruction threaten my own faith? If so, why does it bother me so much?
Can I be someone's friend without turning them into a "project" to fix, but genuinely be their friend regardless of what they end up believing? What makes it hard for me?
Do other people who love me disagree with some things that I believe? Is that okay?

About Tres Adames

Rev. Tres Adames is a Board Certified Pastoral Counselor and provides resources on the subject of deconstruction in the following areas:

Counseling for those experiencing deconstruction, as well as a host of other spiritual, relational, and emotional issues.
Consulting for pastors and therapists who are working with individuals and families going through deconstruction.
Teaching an online course for counselors and therapists on helping clients navigate faith transition professionally and ethically.

New Course on Deconstruction for Counselors and Therapists

We have recently created a new course (primarily for counselors and pastors) on this important topic. This new training supports and upholds the personal faith and perspective of the faith-based counselor, but offers insight for working with people who hold beliefs different from your own. This course is meant to help people who are deconstructing receive care that is person-centered, ethical, sensitive, and trauma-informed.

Learn More

<<Previous

How We Use Personality Tests in Counseling

When Summer Makes You Sad: Understanding Reverse Seasonal Affective Disorder

One might think that in a city that sees more than 300 sunny days per year, seasonal depression would be nearly non-existent. However, the intense heat can lead to many of the same symptoms as winter-onset Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Spirituality can provide an oasis, a place of refreshment from the intensity of the outside world.

Avoiding Ministry Burnout

A lot of ministers absorb the anxiety and stress from their congregants and staff. They say “yes” too much and overstep their own limits.

1. Rest

2. Nourish Your Spiritual Life

“If a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church?”

— 1 Timothy 3:5

3. Set Limits

What should you do if you're on the edge?

Rev. Tres Adames, MDiv, BCPC

Responding to Those Deconstructing

**Many people who are experiencing a deconstruction of their faith don't even want to deconstruct.**

Spirituality is a process, so it's important not to judge someone in the middle of their unfolding story.

Even if you are concerned that the person is going down the wrong path, remember that it's the Holy Spirit who saves, not you.

About Tres Adames

New Course on Deconstruction for Counselors and Therapists

Article Topics

Archives

We're ready to help. Let's begin.

Peoria Location

Phoenix Location

About

Services

Education

Contact