Q: What happens when I call PCSNJ?
A: Our office will return your call and direct you to a therapist who is convenient to your location and is most competent to address your concerns. You may be asked a few questions as to the nature of your counseling need (e.g., are you looking for marital counseling or individual?) but any deeper interview will occur in the privacy of the counseling relationship when you have established contact with a therapist.
Q: How does treatment begin?
A: Once you have scheduled an appointment to meet with one of our staff, treatment begins at the first meeting. During this meeting, you will be informed as to how counseling normally proceeds so you can make your own adjustments if necessary. In most cases, weekly sessions are recommended. You will be given a “standing” appointment, for example “Tuesdays at 6:00 pm,” and are expected to attend weekly at that time unless you notify the therapist otherwise in a timely fashion.
Q: How many sessions will it take for me to feel better?
A: This is an individual matter. Clients can typically expect to be in treatment for a minimum of 16 sessions but this can be discussed and re-visited with your individual therapist as treatment proceeds.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: As pastoral counselors, we feel called to serve
the mental health needs of our communities, |
especially in this age of diminishing options. Therefore, our fees are reasonable and, when necessary, we offer a sliding fee scale that is adjusted for income.
Q: What is a Pastoral Counseling Center?
A: Pastoral Counseling Centers bring together the resources of trained psychotherapists and pastoral ministers. Some of our staff therapists have received the Master of Divinity at a Theological Seminary as well as training in psychotherapy.
Q: Do I need to have a “spiritual problem” in order to visit a Pastoral Counselor?
A: No, in fact most of our clients rely on us to help with relationship problems, anxiety, or depression—just as they would with a traditional psychotherapist. The Pastoral Counseling movement was not designed to replace traditional psychotherapy, but to support those persons whose call to ministry is fulfilled by providing psychological services.
Q: Can I use my insurance?
A: In most cases, yes. Our therapists and staff work closely with each client and their insurance provider to supply the documentation necessary to assure coverage.
Q: What about my privacy?
A: All conversations with PCSNJ therapists are held in the strictest confidence. Client records are kept private (in compliance with HIPAA restrictions).
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