An Opportunity to be Involved

STS Counseling Series Part III

“Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established…For wise counsel you will wage your own war, and in a multitude of counselors there is safety.” Proverbs 24:3, 6 

Having discussed the need and laid out our objectives in biblical counseling, it is time to talk about an opportunity to be involved in the Strength to Stand Counseling Network. In light of 2020’s pandemic, “online” became a necessity with physical and mental health professions. I am certainly grateful for our ability to meet the needs of clients with this service, however, most mental health professionals prefer “in-house” patient visits. There is something about seeing a person’s body language and mannerisms in person that is vastly different than telehealth. That desire for in-person biblical counseling led us to establish a network of trained counselors.

Meeting a Need; Not Creating a Problem

In the first church I pastored, a man in our leadership came confessing his desire for purity and to break the addiction he had developed attending adult clubs (strip clubs). His desire for freedom, his brokenness, repentance, and lamenting of his sin, was both heart-breaking and refreshing. I was heartbroken over what he had done and rejoicing that he was serious about doing everything necessary to break this stronghold of sinful behavior in his life. Believing the Scripture “the truth will set you free” and understanding that the most significant, intimate relationship in his life was with his wife, who he had sinned against (The two having become one flesh). I encouraged him to share with his wife what he was in bondage to, what he had done, how he had confessed it before Christ, and what he wanted to do to find freedom. Understandably, she was hurt and angry but also grateful that her husband desired change. God did an amazing work in their relationship and family; for that, I rejoiced. However, the church I was pastoring unintentionally got hurt. The wife did not want anyone to discover what her husband had done so out of fear and the possibility of embarrassment the family left the church that was ministering to them. Looking back, I wish I had the option of sending him to a Biblical Counselor in our area.

Unfortunately, we know the possibility exists of seeing this repeated in any church, so we invite you to join us to help create a counseling network in your area. Strength to Stand Counseling wants to partner with you, your church, and sister churches in the community to equip biblical counselors.

FAQ’s -

1.What kind of education and training do I need? Every applicant needs to send a resume or biographical sketch. An assessment will be made after an interview is conducted. Additional resources, training, and supervision will be offered.

2.I’m currently on staff at a local church, can I participate in STSC Network? Yes, the fact that you are already providing biblical counsel to students makes you a tremendous resource for your community.

3.Do I have to quit my current job to counsel with STSC? No, the opportunity to work part-time makes up much of our staff.

4.Does STSC provide training based on their Biblical Problem-Solving model? Yes, both in house and by webinars.

5.What is my financial obligation to STSC for training materials and lectures? None. Our training and materials are free. However, we will encourage additional readings. Those books recommended are up to each individual to purchase.

6.How do I get paid? STSC Network hires contractual employees. We provide 1099s at the end of each year. Each contracted employ is responsible for their own taxes on income.

7.Do I need liability insurance? Yes. STSC provides a policy for all its counselors.

The opportunities before us are both exciting and challenging. The opportunity to bring biblical truth to people who are hurting is enormous. Consider joining us for the opportunity to serve your community with this ministry.

For additional information or questions please contact me at bjessup@stscounseling.org

The Strength to Stand Counseling Network provides in-person services in Birmingham, AL, and around the US via tele-health. Let us know if there is any way we can support you, your local church, and your student ministry.   

You can find more about STS Counseling HERE. Each are experienced counselors helping fight for this next generation.