FAQ

FAQ

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• What does the counseling process look like?

  • Well, this looks different for different people. Most generally the first session can be the longest because I spend quite a bit of time asking questions so that I can learn more about you,  and what it is that brings you to counseling. And it is not uncommon to take a couple of sessions just to get a good idea of what is going on at the moment. I often compare the counseling process to peeling an onion, and sometimes we have to pull things back a layer at a time. As we move forward from there, we view those things (anger, depression, anxiety, abuse, etc...) through the lens of Scripture and then we apply those things to our lives. We do this through various growth assignments given to work on in between our time together. 

• How long will it take? 

  • This is different for each person. Some individuals who come for counseling may not have as much going on as others. A second reason is that some have more of a traumatic past that we need to work through, and those thoughts, feelings and emotions take time to work through. So, to put an exact number on how many sessions it may or may not take can be difficult, but it will ultimately depend on you and how well we do working through each situation. 

• Are you going to preach at me?

  • I hear this myth to biblical counseling quite often, and it usually comes from people who do not know exactly what biblical counseling is or does. So, the answer to the question is "No," I'm not gonna preach at you. My hope is that I show you the love and compassion that Christ has for you and your circumstances, no matter what they are. However, if the expression of your behavior is not good, then we have to address it or I'm not doing you any good. 

• Is all you handle spiritual or theological problems?

  • This is also another myth or misunderstanding that I hear concerning biblical counseling. As I have mentioned earlier, I do address various trials, afflictions, hardships, and circumstances. Those things can range from anger to depression, to abuse, to trauma, PTSD, and grief. This also includes marital issues such as adultery, resentment, bitterness, and conflict resolution. It also includes divorce care and moving forward from it. As you can see, we address the same things that other counselors do, but our approach to the solutions to these things is different. 

• Is it Confidential?

  • Yes. Either prior to or during your first appointment you will be asked to sign a Confidentiality Agreement. This means that I will not discuss the things we have discussed with anyone else without your approval and written consent. 

• How much does counseling cost?

  • Hope and Grace Biblical Counseling is a "Pay what you can afford" ministry. We cannot bill insurance or other third party groups like that. However, we do not want finances (money) to get in the way of you or your loved one getting the help they desire. If this is a concern of yours, please feel free to reach out to me at james-beam@hopeandgracebiblical.org and we can discuss it further.