Pastoral Counseling
There are times in life when clinical counseling is not necessary and/or will not meet the needs of the whole person. Pastoral Counseling is a unique form of counseling which uses spiritual resources as well as religious and/or theological training. Pastoral counseling is ideal for individuals who are struggling with a variety of challenges such as spiritual issues, managing difficult life transitions, forgiveness, and marriage work, among other reasons.
Services also offered in Spanish
What Pastoral Counseling Can Help With
Pastoral counseling is recommended for non-clinical needs, such as:
Forgiveness and reconciliation work
Some kinds of marriage counseling
Parent/child challenges
It can also help with struggles related to:
Rejection
Guilt
Grief
Shame
Other strong emotions
How Pastoral Counseling Differs from Clinical Therapy
Training & orientation
Licensed mental health clinicians are trained to diagnose clinical needs (such as anxiety or depression) and use evidence-based practices to help clients achieve treatment goals. Biblical principles may be included if the client chooses.
Pastoral counselors complete a certification program and may have attended a Christian college or seminary.
Framework
Pastoral counseling is guided by the principles of God’s Word. Secondary resources may also be used, including temperament assessments and skill-building workbooks.
Biblical counselors do not diagnose mental health conditions, nor do they provide psychological treatment for them.
Goals & outcomes
Mental health counseling treats diagnosed mental illnesses and their symptoms.
Pastoral counseling provides spiritual resources to individuals looking for help to navigate difficult life circumstances.
Not Sure Which Kind of Counseling is Right?
Uncertain which kind of counseling is right for you? Our team can help guide you through the decision and answer any questions you may have.
What to Expect
1
Contact Us
Complete the Contact Us form to request more information (no commitment).
2
First Phone Call
Our office manager reviews your form and matches you with a team member based on your goals.
3
First Appointment
You’ll share goals, complete any needed paperwork, and decide if the therapist is a good fit.
4
Moving Forward
You’ll collaborate on a treatment plan, chosen modalities, and measurable goals to track progress.
Insurance
Most of our services may be covered, in full or in part, by typical health care plans. We accept: Anthem, Husky Plans (Connecticut), Cigna, Aetna, United Healthcare, Connecticare, Oxford, and Optum. We also accept Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, including those through Anthem, Aetna, and United Healthcare. Don’t see your insurance company? Call us, or utilize our contact form, to see if we are in-network.