A Biblical Approach to Counseling
NorthWoods Church provides counseling to those seeking to solve the problems of life in God’s way. We want to help you see God’s ever-present agenda to increase your conformity to Christ and your capacity to enjoy Him.
Our Qualifications
Our Biblical Counselors at NorthWoods are certified through the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC), and Matt Higgins, also our Worship Pastor, supervises our overall counseling ministry.
Confidentiality
- All cases are confidential. There are a few situations required by the Bible or law that are exempt from confidentiality. Such situations include (but are not limited to):
- Possible harm or danger to person(s);
- A child being abused physically, emotionally, or sexually;
- Someone persistently refusing to stop a sinful pattern, and it is necessary to seek assistance from his or her church to encourage proper change (see Matthew 18:15-20; Romans 13:1-7); or
- When a pastor/elder inquires about his sheep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do we counsel?
We provide counseling for individuals, couples, families, and children older than thirteen. If your child is younger than thirteen, we would be happy to meet with you (the parents) and help you learn how to work with your child at home.
How can I receive counseling?
To begin the process, please complete and sign the Intake Form. Each person receiving counseling must complete and sign his or her own form. (Teenagers may be assisted by their parents.)
When your paperwork is received, you will be assigned to a counselor, and if necessary, your name will be placed on the waiting list. Please understand that you may need to wait to be assigned a counselor since we generally have more people seeking counseling than available counselors.
What do I do after filling out the Intake Form?
As you anticipate your appointment, please understand that at times we have more people seeking counseling than available counselors. We will do all we can to get you in as soon as possible; however, there can be long waits because we offer deeply discounted counseling and have a limited number of counselors. How soon you get in for counseling also depends on your availability. In addition, someone who can come for counseling at any time on any day has a better chance of getting in sooner than someone who can only come in on Tuesday evenings.
What should I expect from the counselor?
Once you have been assigned to a counselor, you will typically meet every week or every other week on the same day at the same time for as long as the counselor determines.
On average, counseling lasts 6-12 weeks, but some cases could be shorter or longer. Counselors will use God’s Word in every counseling session, therefore, you will always be required to bring your Bible (not your phone’s Bible app please). There will also be homework assigned weekly to reinforce the counseling principles.
Is there babysitting or childcare available?
Babysitting is NOT provided. If you come to your session expecting your children to sit and wait in the lobby while you are in your session, your appointment may be canceled for that day. Please make childcare arrangements ahead of time.
How do I schedule a counseling session?
Once you are assigned a counselor, they will contact you to set up a time, place and location for counseling. If you need to miss a scheduled session, please contact your counselor directly to cancel or reschedule. We cannot issue refunds for scheduled sessions under any circumstances. We reserve the right to cancel counseling for excessive “no shows,” tardiness or lack of preparation. Our counselors volunteer their time, so please be respectful of their time and schedules.
How much is counseling?
- Combined Household Income of Under $50,000: $25 per session
- Combined Household Income of $51,000 – $80,0000: $40 per session
- Combined Household Income of $80,000 or More: $60 / Session
- We reserve the right to cancel counseling for non-payment of session fees.
Do I need to bring any materials or supplies?
Your counselor may suggest the purchase of counseling booklets or books to aid you in the counseling process. These prices vary but generally range from $5 – $25.
Still Have Questions?
If you have any more questions about our program, please contact our Worship Pastor, Matt Higgins at our NorthWoods Church Office at (812) 402-4954. Our office hours are 9:00am – 2:00pm on Monday – Thursday. If you are calling after hours or on weekends, your calls and messages will be returned during regular office hours.
Once you have completed this form, our staff will contact you during our regular office hours (9:00am – 2:00pm on Monday – Thursday). You can expect that our staff will contact you in a few days–especially if you are completing this form after hours or on weekends.