FAQ
Do Christians ever need Counseling?
Although Christians have the knowledge of truth through scripture, and we abide in the grace and love of Jesus Christ, we are also fallen creatures, in need of His healing and direction. Sometimes we need guidance in dealing with times of suffering, challenge, and distress, whether emotional, psychiatric, or spiritual. Counseling can be very helpful in this process. Needing help is not necessarily a sign of weak faith, or of a poor walk with Christ. Christ himself calls us 'who are weary and burdened' to come to Him so He can give us rest! (Matt. 11:28) Counseling can uncover new depths of relationship with Christ, with a renewed understanding of our need for Him enhancing our faith and walk.
Let's Talk Fees?
Our Intake Coordinator, will give you a consultation they will spend time with you, listening to your concerns, asking pertinent questions, so that we may consider the best treatment 'fit' for you, taking your input into consideration. The counselor will also ask some financial questions, so that we can determine what your cost will be. We do not accept insurance, but our fees are very affordable, we offer per session cost and monthly payment plans, this is all private pay. We desire that all who seek counseling will be able to receive it, so we do our best to make counseling prices reasonable for everyone.
Biblical Counseling vs. Traditional Counseling
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Traditional Counseling is needs-based. The needs for self-esteem, love and acceptance, and significance tend to dominate. If these needs are met, it is believed, people will be happy, kind, and moral; if these needs are unmet, people will be miserable, hateful, and immoral. Biblical counseling teaches that true satisfaction and happiness can only be found in a relationship with God and a pursuit of godliness.
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Traditional psychology is based on the theories and subsequent teachings of psychoanalysts. These include Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung, and Carl Rogers and more recently ideas of post-modernism. In stark contrast, Biblical counseling is based on the revealed Word of God and subsequently on God’s theories and teachings for humankind.
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Traditional psychology promotes mankind as the highest standard of truth and morality and rejects faith, the supernatural, and the Bible. Biblical counseling sees God as the highest standard of truth and morality and that Scripture is sufficient to address the impact on humankind due to fallen human conditions (Genesis 3) as well as equip the child of God for every good work (2 Timothy 3:15-17; 2 Peter 1:4).
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Traditional psychology is based on the ideas that man is basically good and that the answer to his problems lies within himself. The Bible states that humans are much worse than they think, but also loved so much more than they can imagine. Humans are “dead in trespasses and sins” (Ephesians 2:1), and the unregenerate heart is “deceitful and beyond all cure” (Jeremiah 17:9). Therefore, the biblical counselor takes a drastically different approach: rather than seeking solutions to spiritual problems within one’s own mind, he seeks to confront sin, obtain wisdom from above (James 3:17), and apply the Word of God to the situation.
Does the Bible have the answers we need?
Indeed, the Bible is the inerrant Word of God, and has all the instructions we need. But it can help to have someone walk us through the healing process. Proverbs speaks often that gaining knowledge, understanding, and wisdom brings more 'profit' than silver or gold. Christian counseling is one way to bring understanding in difficult times. Our logo, Psalm 119:105, speaks to how scripture lights our path, giving us direction. Counseling is really a form of discipleship, helping you apply the Word in very personal ways.
What to expect from counseling?
The counselor will want to work on goals that you define together, based on what your main concerns are. Some people come to counseling because they are suffering with a psychological, emotional, spiritual, or psychiatric condition. A few typical issues are eating disorders,depression,anxiety, addictions, or grief. Others come to counseling because of conflict and stress in their relationships with people they love, such as a spouse, children, or parents. We will discuss together and pray to God for what direction we will seek to heal your or your family. We will incorporate emphasizes on your walk with Christ during the process.
Do Faith Focused Counselors share my beliefs?
Faith Focused Counselors are born-again Christians who love Jesus Christ and desire to bring His healing to others. You are welcome to discuss spiritual perspectives with your counselor, so that you are confident in a mutual understanding of your shared beliefs.
What about confidentiality?
All of our Biblical Counselors are bound to confidentiality in their counseling with you. They cannot talk to anyone else about your counseling without your permission and knowledge. If you, your counselor, or your pastor want the support or input of a spouse, family member, pastor, friend, or other professional (like your physician), you would have to give written permission for this. (Exceptions to the confidentiality rule are few, and include if you threaten to put yourself or anyone else in danger, or rarely, if there is a court order.)
What is required to get counseling?
You do not have to be a member or an attendee of any church to receive counseling at Faith Focused Counseling. All are welcome to receive counseling online or in person. We strongly suggest you read our Statement of Faith and understand these are the guidelines we will follow at Faith Focused Counseling. We will also ask all of our clients to read, sign and understand we will be counseling from the Bible with other resources. All clients must do the homework assigned to them to achieve a good outcome. If you are under the care of a medical doctor we will ensure you continue to maintain that level of service in conjunction with biblical counseling.
Statement of Faith
1. We believe the Bible to be the inspired, infallible, authoritative Word of God revealing the love of God to the world. 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; John 3:16.
2. We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19; John 10:30; Ephesians 4:4-6.
3. We believe in the deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His vicarious and atoning death through His shed blood on the cross, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory. Matthew 1:23; John 1:1-4 and 1:29; Acts 1:11 and 2:22-24; Romans 8:34; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 2:5-11; Hebrews 1:1-4 and 4:15.
4. We believe that all men everywhere are lost and face the judgment of God, that Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation, and that for the salvation of lost and sinful man, repentance of sin and faith in Jesus Christ results in regeneration by the Holy Spirit. Furthermore, we believe that God will reward the righteous with eternal life in heaven, and that He will banish the unrighteous to everlasting punishment in hell. Luke 24:46-47; John 14:6; Acts 4:12; Romans 3:23; 2 Corinthians 5:10-11; Ephesians 1:7 and 2:8-9; Titus 3:4-7.
5. We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit, whose indwelling enables the Christian to live a godly life. John 3:5-8; Acts 1:8 and 4:31; Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 2:14; Galatians 5:16-18; Ephesians 6:12; Colossians 2:6-10.
6. We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; the saved unto the resurrection of eternal life and the lost unto the resurrection of damnation and eternal punishment. 1 Corinthians 15:51-57; Revelation 20:11-15.
7. We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ and that all true believers are members of His body, the Church. 1 Corinthians 12:12, 27; Ephesians 1:22-23.
8. We believe that the ministry of evangelism (sharing and proclaiming the message of salvation only possible by grace through faith in Jesus Christ) and discipleship (helping followers of Christ grow up into maturity in Christ) is a responsibility of all followers of Jesus Christ. Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; Romans 10:9-15; 1 Peter 3:15.
9. We believe God’s plan for human sexuality is to be expressed only within the context of marriage, that God created man and woman as unique biological persons made to complete each other. God instituted monogamous marriage between male and female as the foundation of the family and the basic structure of human society. For this reason, we believe that marriage is exclusively the union of one genetic male and one genetic female. Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:5-6; Mark 10:6-9; Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9.
10. We believe that we must dedicate ourselves to prayer, to the service of our Lord, to His authority over our lives, and to the ministry of evangelism. Matthew 9:35-38; 22:37-39, and 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; Romans 10:9-15 and 12:20-21; Galatians 6:10; Colossians 2:6-10; 1 Peter 3:15.
11. We believe that human life is sacred from conception to its natural end; and that we must have concern for the physical and spiritual needs of our fellowmen. Psalm 139:13; Isaiah 49:1; Jeremiah 1:5; Matthew 22:37-39; Romans 12:20-21; Galatians 6:10.
Policy for Faith-Focused Counseling in Accordance with Texas Law, HIPAA, and App Usage Introduction: Our faith-focused counseling services aim to support individuals and families in their healing process, integrating psychological principles and spiritual beliefs. We are committed to upholding Texas law, HIPAA regulations, and best practices regarding the use of digital tools and applications in our counseling services. 1. Mission Statement: Our mission is to provide compassionate and effective counseling that respects and incorporates our clients' faith while promoting emotional health and personal growth. 2. Confidentiality: - All counseling sessions are confidential, in compliance with Texas law and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). - We ensure the protection of personal health information (PHI) and will not disclose any information without the client’s written consent, except in cases of risk of self-harm, harm to others, abuse, or as mandated by law. 3. HIPAA Compliance: - All counseling practices adhere to HIPAA regulations to ensure the privacy and security of our clients' information. - Clients have the right to access their PHI and request amendments as per HIPAA guidelines. 4. Technology Use and App Policy: - We may utilize secure apps or digital platforms for communication, scheduling, and resource sharing. We ensure these tools comply with HIPAA standards. - Clients are informed about the use of apps and are encouraged to review the privacy policies associated with any applications utilized for counseling purposes. - Clients have the right to refuse the use of digital tools and request traditional counseling methods. 5. Client-Centered Approach:** Counseling sessions are tailored to meet the individual needs of each client. Clients are encouraged to discuss their spiritual beliefs openly, allowing for a personalized counseling experience. 6. Integration of Faith: We incorporate faith-based practices, such as prayer or spiritual discussions, into counseling sessions when agreed upon by the client. Respect for all faith traditions is paramount. 7. Professional Standards: Our counselors are certified and adhere to ethical guidelines established by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors. We engage in ongoing professional development to maintain high standards of care. 8. Empowerment and Growth: Our approach empowers clients to explore their faith and take an active role in their healing journey, supported by our counselors. 9. Diversity and Inclusion: We honor and celebrate our clients’ faiths and backgrounds. Our services are inclusive and non-discriminatory. 10. Feedback and Communication: Client feedback is valued. We encourage clients to communicate their thoughts and concerns about the counseling experience to ensure continual improvement. 11. Termination of Services: Clients may choose to terminate counseling services at any time. We encourage discussions surrounding this decision for clarity and support during the transition. 12. Contact Information: For questions or further information about our services, please contact our office during business hours. --- This policy outlines our commitment to providing faith-focused counseling in compliance with Texas law and HIPAA regulations, while also addressing the use of applications and technology in enhancing the counseling experience. We appreciate the opportunity to support you in your healing journey.