I’m glad you’re here.

 

Let’s Talk

Life is hard. God didn’t intend for you to handle it alone. I offer a welcoming space where you can process the experiences you’ve had and discuss the burdens on your heart. I specialize in a comprehensive approach that combines psychology, spirituality, and ethics on each and every issue we work through together.

Free 30 Minute Introductory Appointment

About Me

What is Pastoral Counseling?

Hi, I’m Scott

 

I earned my Bachelors degree in psychology from Montana State University, then a Masters degree from Talbot School of Theology. I began working as a licensed pastor under the Christian and Missionary Alliance in 2008. In addition to my work in ministry, I have worked as a professor for over 15 years teaching about ethics, philosophy of religion, and death and dying.

I have maintained a role as pastoral counselor for individuals and couples. My approach is to use tools from several different disciplines to integrate the whole self into a life with God.

I have been married for 20 years and have two (almost grown) children.

 

Pastoral counseling is a type of non-clinical, individual talk therapy. A pastoral counselor seeks to listen, empathize, and gently guide clients further into a meaningful life. A counseling session usually lasts about an hour and offers the clients a chance to process their thoughts, ask questions, and receive non-judgmental guidance.

How is spiritual advising different from clinical counseling/therapy?

Traditional psychology is an excellent tool to restore function in people who suffer from psychological disorders, including clinical depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, and so forth.

While many people may not struggle with clinical issues, they still may feel “stuck” and would like to look for new ways to reorient their lives. Pastoral counseling focuses on happiness, life satisfaction, and flourishing. We explore ideas about how to address pain, disappointment, and other emotional roadblocks. Then we will create a growth plan that will implement strategies you may want to try.

How Does This Work?

Step 1

If you’re interested in learning more about spiritual advising or pastoral counseling, you can follow the link below to book a free appointment with me. If you have general questions, contact me via email.  All information is kept strictly confidential.

Get Started today!

Step 2

Once I receive your information I will contact you within 48 hours to set up a free 30 minute session where we can chat more about what areas you’d like to explore and what you would like to accomplish in our time together.

Step 3

After our initial visit, you are welcome to book sessions as you please. There’s no obligation to book appointments in advance unless you wish to do so. Each session is 50 minutes and the cost is $65.00. A sliding scale for pay is available upon request.

Step 4

After each 50 minute appointment, you will receive a written summary about the main themes that we discussed along with some things to consider for your next appointment. 

What topics typically come up in Pastoral Counseling?

Each person is unique. We all have strengths and areas of weakness. Based on our past experiences, we may not have developed a full sense of who we are in certain areas of our lives. These same areas can cause us to run into problems within ourselves or in our relationships with other. Some of these themes include:

Abuse and Trauma
  • Abuse Recovery
  • Bullying
  • Domestic Abuse
  • Spiritual Abuse
  • Verbal or Emotional Abuse
Families and Parenting
  • Blended Families
  • Boundaries
  • Dysfunctional Family Dynamics
  • Parenting
  • Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Thoughts and Emotions
  • Anger
  • Envy and Jealousy
  • Fear
  • Forgiveness
  • Worry
Character and Life Skills
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Decision Making
  • Ethics and Integrity
  • Prejudice
  • Time Management
Grief and Loss
  • Chronic Illness and Disability
  • Death, Dying, and the Afterlife
  • Grief
  • Stress
  • Caretaking Support
Marriage and Divorce
  • Adultery 
  • Divorce 
  • Intimacy 
  • Manipulation
  • Marriage Support
Sexuality and Restoration
  • Abortion and Grief
  • Child Sexual Trauma
  • Sexual Addiction
  • Sexual Assault and Rape Recovery
  • Sexual Integrity
Identity and Self Worth
  • Guilt
  • Defensiveness
  • Critical Spirit
  • Identity and Self Image
  • Perfectionism
  • Self-Worth

If you have more questions about how pastoral counseling may be able to help you, feel free to send me a message and I’ll respond within 24 hours.

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