How do I know if I need counseling?
This is a very personal question. A basic rule is that if there are issues that trouble you to the point that they interfere with either your functioning in life or your well being, then it may be time to seek professional help. This is especially true if you have tried to handle it on your own and it has not gotten better. You can always come to see us for one session in order to help you sort out whether or not we can be helpful to you.
Will I get Christian counseling?
Yes, all counseling will be Christian counseling and prayer will be with you and/or for you.
What is Pastoral Counseling and just what are the qualifications to become a Pastoral Counselor?
Pastoral counseling combines the insights and principles of Christian faith and theology with the knowledge and skills of counseling. Its primary goal is to help people experience increasing mental, emotional, and spiritual health through the process of counseling conversations and with God's presence as the foundation. Pastoral counselors are clergy who have received graduate level training in both religion and counseling for an approach that integrates counseling and theological perspectives. A typical program of study includes a four-year professional degree from a seminary and a masters or doctoral degree in pastoral counseling, with supervised practical experience. I am an active member of the American Association of Christian Counselors and Board Certified by the International Board of Christian Counselors.
How does Christian counseling differ from other counseling?
At Pastoral Christian Counseling, we believe the Bible is the holy, inspired, inerrant Word of God, therefore, we base our counsel on the clear direction and the basic principles we find there. The Bible guides us in dealing with abuse, past hurts, anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, communications, marital and family issues, interpersonal relationships, finances, and so much more. We use a cognitive and behavioral format to renew thinking and transform the life. One thing we've learned over the years is that if we will do things God's way, they will work, and His peace and contentment will be ours!
For the Word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword . . . able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 New American Standard Version
What is the difference between a pastoral counselor and other mental healthcare professionals?
There are several key distinctions between pastoral counselors and other mental health professionals:
- Pastoral counselors are trained in two disciplines, counseling and theology. Counseling sessions are based on the appropriate application of Biblical concepts and principles.
In many cases, pastoral counselors have more education. For example, pastoral counselors often have completed a three to four year Masters degree in a certified Christian Counseling program in additional to their pastoral training.
- Pastoral counselors are not medical doctors and do not prescribe medication. In situations where a pastoral counselor believes medication can be helpful, the client may be referred to a psychiatrist, or a medical doctor who specializes in treating mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. In most cases, counseling will continue with the pastoral counselor and the psychiatrist will supervise the client's medication.
Will my confidentiality be protected?
Confidentiality is strictly maintained by Pastoral Christian Counseling, its staff, and any volunteers working in the office. Because you are sharing important and sensitive information about yourself, I am dedicated to establishing and maintaining a relationship of confidentiality. In such an environment, you are hopefully able to speak freely and honestly. The only circumstances when information could be shared without your written permission are when there is a clear intention to do harm to yourself or someone else, in the case of child or elder abuse, and when a court order is issued. Protecting the confidentiality of those who seek counseling is a top priority.
Do you accept insurance?
No, but we will provide a receipt so you can file your own insurance.
What are the ways I can pay?
We accept cash or checks made payable to PCC or Pastoral Christian Counseling.
Will you bill me?
No, payment is to be made at the time of each session.
What if I can’t afford the full amount of the fee?
We use a sliding fee scale based on Federal Poverty Standards and the clients general ability to pay. No client is turned away for their inability to pay.
How long are the sessions?
Sessions are 50 minutes to 1 hour.
What if I can’t make my appointment?
If you must cancel an appointment, please call 24 hours in advance. If appointments are missed or cancelled late you may be charged for your missed session.
May I bring my children to my session?
Children are not permitted in counseling sessions unless they are part of family counseling sessions. Please do not bring children to the sessions. Staff and/or volunteers cannot be expected to watch children.
What will happen at my first appt?
The first appointment is referred to as the “intake session.” At this first appointment, your clinician will ask you many questions about your situation, types of problems you are experiencing, your personal and family history, medical questions and more all to gain a thorough understanding of you and how best to treat your problems in the most effective way. This evolves into what we call the “treatment plan” and is the blueprint for your sessions and a baseline for measuring success for you.
How structured are the sessions?
In this area we also attempt to provide a balance. We provide guidance and direction while respecting the direction that the client wants to take with their treatment. We frequently make suggestions regarding issues that we perceive a need to focus on. However, it is ultimately the decision of the client as to whether they desire to deal with these suggestions.
What is your view on the use of psychiatric medications?
Many times biochemical problems effect the emotions and the thinking processes so intensely that spiritual and cognitive therapy alone are not totally effective. If there is such a problem, the use of medications will usually restore physical well-being so that the individual has the focus and energy to work on the spiritual, mental, emotional and behavioral changes that need to be made in his/her life. Medications often give a person the boost he/she needs to face problems and move forward. I'm thankful God gave man the knowledge to develop these drugs. When used properly they can be an incredible help.
Is there someone in your office who can prescribe medications?
No. We work with the client's family physician or a local psychiatrist to prescribe and oversee the use of medications when they are needed.
Are you available as a speaker for seminars and retreats?
Yes. Holiday Stress, Anger Management, Communication, as well as other topics may be arranged for your specific group.
What is ADD/ADHD?
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are believed to be a neurologically-based disorders that begins in childhood, before the age of seven. It has the potential to seriously affect the child behaviorally, psychologically, educationally, and spiritually.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is an emotional and physical response to a vague, uncontrollable, or uncertain event. You may have the vague feeling that "something bad is going to happen." Worry concentrates more on specific events in our life.
What is depression?
Major depression can greatly affect a person's ability to function at home and/or at work, and inhibit the enjoyment of life in any way. Some people suffer depression only once but others may experience it several times in their lifetime.
What are some symptoms of depression?
- Feelings of sadness for over two weeks
- Not wanting to spend time with friends and family
- Increased irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in sleep and appetite patterns
- Frequent crying spells
What is grief?
Grief is a natural healing response following a loss or a change in life. It is a process that involves your whole being. It is a physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual experience. When you lose someone or something, like a job, that gave you purpose, value, meaning, or security, you grieve. Grief is universal, individual, painful, cumulative, normal and hard work.
What do I do if I need marriage counseling, but my spouse will not come in?
The short answer is—come in by yourself. The reason for this is that we have seen many occasions where one spouse begins to change and make improvements. In turn, this provides motivation for the other spouse to come in.
How many sessions will I have to have?
Sometimes things are resolved sooner and sometimes it may take longer. It really depends on your situation and the types of problems you are experiencing and your willingness to participate in your treatment.
How often do I have to come in for appointments?
The therapist will discuss this with you when you come in for your first appointment. Typically, sessions are weekly until you are doing better and then they taper until you have resolved your issues. The frequency is established between you and your therapist
How do I make an appointment?
Simply call the number. Once you call and request to be seen then you will be scheduled for an intake appointment.
How is the role of a Pastoral Counselor different than that of other pastors at a church?
Counseling and support are considered an integral part of any pastor's ministry. However, there are times when the needs of an individual or a family go beyond offering prayer, support and encouragement to encompass longer-term counseling. Pastoral counseling is an intensification of the general ministry of the pastoral staff. This is especially important, for instance, when the problem may be an addiction to drugs or alcohol or other areas in for which the pastor may not have specific training.