Why do people seek pastoral counseling?

People come into pastoral counseling for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal or spiritual growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, pastoral counseling can help. Pastoral counseling can provide siritual support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking pastoral counseling are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.

 

What can I expect in a pastoral counseling session?

During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. Usually weekly sessions are best. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For pastoral counseling to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the sessions.

 

What benefits can I expect from working with a pastoral counselor?

A number of benefits are available from participating in pastoral counseling. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Pastoral Counseling can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find pastoral counseling to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from pastoral counseling depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from pastoral counseling include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
• Attaining a better perspective and relationship with the Lord
• Developing skills for improving your relationships
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
• Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
• Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
• Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
• Discovering new ways to solve problems
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

 

What if I don't know what my goals are for pastoral counseling?

If you aren't sure what your goals are for pastoral counseling, your first task is to figure that out. It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of pastoral counseling your goals may change. However, establishing a direction for pastoral counseling will help you get the most out of the experience.

 

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

There is a confusing array of insurance arrangements. The first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:

• Do I have mental health benefits?
• What is my deductible and has it been met?
• How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
• How much do you pay for an out-of-net provider?
• Is there a limitation on how much you will pay per session?
• Is primary care physician approval required?

As a rule of thumb we find clients who pay out of pocket rather than trough insurance have more effective counseling experiences since restriction and insurance interference is less.

 

Is pastoral counseling confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a pastoral counselor. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The pastoral counselor is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The pastoral counselor must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The pastoral counselor will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.