What is Biblical Counseling?

Definition

Biblical Counseling is the process where the Bible, God’s Word, is related individually to a person or persons who are struggling under the weight of personal sin and/or the difficulties with suffering, so that he or she might genuinely change in the inner person to be pleasing to God.

Three Key Beliefs

First, we believe that the Bible, given by God, is sufficient for life in that, when properly interpreted, it reveals to the believer all the data necessary for one to understand his need for Christ, how he can please the Lord, and how to live in a God-honoring way regardless of the circumstances whether comfortable or oppressive. Second, the Bible is also the authoritative source with which all truth claims—including claims made by science and history—must be evaluated. As a result, we reject all counseling theories that use presuppositions, principles, and/or methodologies that are inconsistent with the proper interpretation of the biblical text. Third, we believe that genuine heart change is totally dependent on the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Thus, our view of counseling practice includes the importance of prayer, dependence on God, a thorough knowledge of the Word of God, and an understanding of ministering to people. For a more detailed explanation of biblical counseling, please see the confessional statement of the Biblical Counseling Coalition.  Additionally, the counseling is in association with ACBC (Association of Certified Biblical Counselors). 

What to Expect

Before we can begin to help with your problem, there are a few things you need to know:

  • First, our counseling is offered free of charge as a ministry to our church and community.
  • Appointments are based on our wait list; because of this, we are not always able to see members of other churches. Please call our office, 419.485.8229, to see if we are accepting non-members at this time.
  • For members of other churches, we require that you bring someone in spiritual leadership from your church to “walk along” with you in the counseling. This counseling advocate will be crucial to helping you implement the changes we discuss in counseling.
  • We also require the pastor of your church to complete a “Church Recommendation Form.”
  • If you are not a member/attender of a church but want to receive counseling, we are glad to see you but will ask you to commit to attending BCC while you are receiving counseling.

If you agree to this biblical pathway for counseling, we invite you to continue the process by completing the following forms to begin your counseling journey.

Forms

Personal Data Inventory (PDF) (Word)

Identifying Issues (PDF) (Word)

Statement-of-Confidentiality (PDF) (Word)

Church (Pastor) Recommendation Form (PDF) (Word)