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Frequently Asked Questions
When should I seek help from a Pastoral Counselor?Pastoral Counseling is a unique form of psychotherapy which uses spiritual resources as well as psychological understanding for healing and growth. Pastoral Counselors are certified mental health professionals who have in-depth religious and/or theological training and thus can address psychological and spiritual issues. You should consider meeting with a Pastoral Counselor if you are experiencing emotional difficulties and wish to address these matters in the context of religion and spirituality. Pastoral Counseling is also an opportunity for growth apart from any crisis. Back to TopHow long will I meet with a Pastoral Counselor?Sessions are typically 50 minutes in length. Most persons come for counseling once a week, although this can vary due to factors such as finances, schedule constraints, and emotional need. While some people come a few times and others come for several years, we have found that an average number of sessions is about 25 over a period of 6 months to a year. Back to TopDo I have to believe a certain way or have a certain religion to talk to a Pastoral Counselor?No, Pastoral Counselors talk to people of any and all faiths, as well as to people who do not claim a faith stance. They are ready and able to discuss religions and spiritual issues, but the Pastoral Counselor will never "push" religion with a person. Back to TopDo Pastoral Counselors work only with individuals, or do they also work with families?Pastoral Counselors are trained mental health professionals and, as such, work with individuals, families and groups. The nature of the therapy is agreed upon by the person seeking counseling and the Pastoral Counselor. Back to TopHow do Pastoral Counselors differ from other mental health professionals?There are three key distinctions between Pastoral Counselors and other mental health professionals. First, Pastoral Counselors are trained in two disciplines, psychology and theology. Second, in some cases, Pastoral Counselors have more education. For example, pastoral counselors at the Fellow level in AAPC have completed a three-year Master of Divinity program, plus an additional degree or equivalent of four years of graduate academic work. In comparison, licensed clinical social workers have completed a two-year Master of Social Work degree beyond undergraduate coursework. All of our counselors have completed graduate training in their field and many have completed additional theological training. Third, Pastoral Counselors are not medical doctors and may not prescribe medications. In situations where a pastoral counselor believes medication can be helpful, a person will be referred to a psychiatrist, a medical doctor who specializes in treating mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. In most cases, therapy will continue with the Pastoral Counselor, and the psychiatrist will supervise the person's medication. Triangle Pastoral Counseling has a consulting psychologist and a consulting psychiatrist on staff. Back to TopWhat is the curricula for Pastoral Counselors?In addition to their theological and pastoral studies, Pastoral Counselors study human development and personality; interpersonal, marriage, family and group/community dynamics; cultural systems; research methods; and supervised field experience. An AAPC Fellow is required to have a total of 1,625 hours of supervised experience, including 250 hours of direct supervision. Back to TopAre fees of Pastoral Counselors comparable to those charged by other health care professionals?In general, the fees of Pastoral Counselors are lower than those of other health care professionals. This is due to the not-for-profit orientation of Pastoral Counseling centers and the willingness of Pastoral Counselors to work for modest salaries. It is the prevailing ethic of Pastoral Counseling that every effort is made to treat everyone, regardless of ability to pay. Back to TopAre Pastoral Counselors covered by health insurance plans?Yes, in most cases; however, the coverage depends upon the conditions of your particular health care plan. The Center will file for health care insurance coverage, however, you will need to check with your carrier in advance to verify your coverage. Please contact us for more specifics at 919-845-9977. Back to Top |
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