We are committed to providing a balanced and biblical approach to counseling. By biblical counseling we mean that your counselor is a Christian with special training and experience in applying the truth of the Bible to life. We believe that the Bible speaks to all of life and to all of its problems, but it takes careful thought and prayerful wisdom to know how to make those connections. We don't believe that the Bible is simply a how-to book for happiness.
We are confident that through the Scriptures and the power of His Spirit, God has given us all the instruction necessary for the life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3-4). It is our joy to help real people, with real problems, using the Bible. Your counseling will be biblical, pastoral counseling in which the Scriptures are held as the final authority in all matters. If you are not sure that you will be interested in biblical counseling, you will have the option of attending one or two sessions to discover how biblical counseling may help you.
Most importantly, we believe that the Bible ultimately points us to a Person - the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe that real change comes when people learn to see themselves and their problems in the context of a loving, vital relationship with Christ. This does not mean that you must be a Christian to profit from our counseling, although we believe that deep and lasting change is brought about only by God Himself. Because of this, we do not use the Bible in a superficial or heavy-handed way.
When necessary we will work with your physician or other professionals to ensure you recieve the appropriate medical care in conjunction with the counseling services you receive.
The Biblical Counseling Ministry Team:
Outward Church Biblical Counseling Ministries utilizes the help of both trained lay volunteers and pastors. Our counselors do not know everything about biblical teaching and its application to life; nevertheless, they do know much and will do their utmost to help you. Counselors will honestly tell you if they require additional assistance from another member of the Biblical Counseling Ministry. Please understand that biblical counseling consists of Christians providing scriptural advice and practical application. Yet the counselee is held fully responsible for how he/she implements that advice (James 1:23-25). In addition, our counselors are neither psychologists, nor professional counselors. The counseling team consists of pastors, lay counselors, and trainees under the direction of the church elders; who provide guidance and oversight. The staff of Outward Church Biblical Counseling Ministry will supervise the trainees and lay volunteers. A biblical counselor trainee may be present in any counseling session for training and observation.
Your Rights as a Counselee:
As a counselee you have the right to discuss outcomes and challenges regarding the counseling and receive an estimate of the predicted length, goals, and outcome of the counseling, as well as alternative options to that counseling. You have the right to ask about and/or refuse any techniques used. You are encouraged to report to an elder/pastor or counseling director if you have any grievances regarding the counseling. You may terminate counseling at any time, but we encourage you to consult with your counselor as to the best way to do so.
Not Professional Advice:
If you have significant legal, financial, medical, or other technical questions, we may help you seek advice from an independent professional in that field.
Referral Process:
We believe in biblical counseling and the future support of the Body of Christ once counseling is completed. However, in the case that progress is not being made, a conflict of interest, or for medical concerns we do make referrals. We will work with permission with your family physician and insurance to help seek medical or professional care if needed.
Homework:
Homework is sometimes given between sessions. This can range from reading information to taking a practical step in your counseling process.