LOVE GOD.
LOVE PEOPLE.
At FSBC, counseling is an integral part of what it means to love God and love people. People across every stage of life in any different circumstance need the love and grace that God and his people offer.
Who qualifies for counseling?
Anyone who struggles with sin in their life qualifies for counseling. Whether you ask your LIFE Group leader for directions or reach out to another staff member at church we all struggle with sin and the effects of that sin on our lives.
The Hot Dog Jingle approach is how we know who qualifies for Biblical Counseling. Remember it goes - What kind of kids Need Biblical Counseling – Fat kids, skinny kids, kids who climb on rocks; tough kids, sissy kids even kids with chicken pox need Biblical Counseling and by kids we are even talking about those 80 year old kids. Seriously, as a believer living in a fallen world, we all need direction back to the being created in the image of Christ.
Members of First Southern will be given priority to the counseling times available but we will be open to help those in our community that attend other churches or want to learn what the Bible says about sin and its effect on us.
Particular situations may be:
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Family Counseling
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Divorce
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Grief
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Addictions
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Sexual Matters (SSA or Transgender)
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Divorce for children
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Messy Relationship Navigation
Whatever is causing you to stumble with your walk with Christ. The Bible addresses all of these and how in Christ’s image we are to respond.
FAQ
What is Biblical Counseling?
Biblical counseling is a Bible based counseling program at First Southern where you can receive guidance in resolving personal and social difficulties that arise in your life. The program is established on God’s Word and led by the Holy Spirit in us.
What qualifies you as a Biblical Counselor?
For me, (Rayda) according to Acts 1:8 and a Discipleship University class at First Southern, I felt the call on my life to move into a structured counseling ministry. I had various college credits with no degree. I completed the School of Ministry wherein I studied Survey to Old Testament and to New Testament, Apologetics and Bible Doctrine. Upon completion of that, I chose (through Midwestern Seminary) the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors. In ACBC training, you have textbooks to read, thorough testing in both theology and in counseling and then must have 50 hours of supervision in counseling.
If you are interested in becoming a Biblical counselor - I would love to help you with it.
Who can attend counseling?
This ministry is available to anyone. Just as in Acts 1:8 - my Jerusalem (church family) is given priority but then as time allows, my Judea (surrounding area) people from other church bodies or communities and then my Samaria (the ends of the earth) - anyone. You must know, everything will be based upon what the Bible says and how the Holy Spirit leads.
What ages do you counsel?
Any age. For children and teens there is a consent form for the parents to sign. I also want it to be very clear that the Bible will be the source of all teaching. We will ask a child, what does the Bible say and then show them the appropriate scripture for their growth and knowledge.
What is the cost?
At this time, the counseling sessions are a ministry of our church and there is no cost for the sessions. You may be asked to buy a specific book or material but should not cost over $25. Any donations that you would like to make to be used in the counseling ministry can be given to First Southern Baptist Church, #12 West Central Avenue, Central City, AR 72941. Please make any an all donations with the designation, "counseling."
How do I schedule an appointment?
You should complete a Personal Data Inventory and an Informed Consent (both found under ministries/counseling/forms on our website: firstsbc.com. These forms are also available in the office. Once you have the forms completed and returned to the office, we will contact you to schedule an appointment. When forms are completed and received we will contact you within 24 hours. If you have not heard from us within 24 hours, please do not hesitate to call Rayda at 479-462-3877 and we will get you scheduled.
What do I need to bring with me to a session?
Your Bible, a notebook, a pen and a willing heart.