Common Questions About Counseling

What is Professional Christian Counseling?

The term “professional” means that your counselor has been specifically trained in psychology, counseling, or a related field, with a minimum of a Master’s degree in one of these areas.  Additionally, they will hold (or will be working toward) licensure as a Professional Counselor.  This licensure, granted by the State of Texas, indicates that your counselor has completed a graduate degree, has passed competency exams, is involved in continuing education, and has done a minimum of several thousand hours of counseling under clinical supervision.

The “Christian” descriptor relates to both the type of counseling provided and the person providing counseling services.  Each counselor on our staff is a committed follower of Jesus Christ.  The terminology also makes a statement about our value system.  We believe God is the author of life and relationships, and his Word (The Bible) provides the best “road map” toward understanding purpose and meaning in life.  We will seek to understand where you are on your spiritual journey, and join you in discussion of personal, relational, and spiritual issues in a way that is meaningful for you.

What types of counseling do you provide?

We serve children, adolescents, and adults through the Promises Ministry Center, providing individual, premarital, marital, and family counseling.  Each counselor will have areas of specialization.  If you are addressing an issue that we do not specialize in, we will be happy to assist you with a referral.  We also provide group counseling options for women and for married couples.

How do I get started?

To set up counseling sessions, simply fill out and submit a confidential intake form.  Once we have received it, we will call you to set up your first appointment.

How long are counseling sessions and how much does counseling cost?

Individual sessions are 50 minutes in length and are usually scheduled weekly or bi-weekly.  Group sessions are 1.5 hours.  The per session fee is determined by a combination of counselor experience level and a counselee's ability to pay.  No one is turned away based on inability to pay.

When are counseling sessions scheduled?

Appointments are available at a variety of times, including mornings, afternoons, evenings and weekends.  Individual counseling sessions with members of the opposite sex are always scheduled at times when other office staff is present.

How confidential is the information I share in counseling?

Everything you discuss in counseling is kept confidential, with the exception of certain circumstances outlined for professional counselors by the State of Texas.  Basically, these exceptions occur when a counselee shows intent to bring harm to self or others, instances of child abuse, or matters that a court of law would require to be released.  In instances where an intern is being supervised in counseling, he will discuss counseling issues with an approved supervisor.

Will health insurance cover the cost of my counseling?

Our office does not do insurance billing.  However, you will be provided a receipt at the conclusion of each session, which you may be able to submit for reimbursement, depending on the guidelines of your insurance company.

Contact us at 817.295.9384