Counseling Info

Counseling and Discipleship Ministries

Sometimes in life, people need help. Maybe you are struggling in some area of your life, have gone through a difficult situation, or need guidance. We believe God's Word has answers to help you. We would like the opportunity to help you find and apply the truths in God's Word regarding your specific situation.

Below are a few Frequently Asked Questions people have in regards to our counseling ministry. If you have any further questions, please contact us and we will respond to you as soon as possible.

Is there anything that makes your counseling and discipleship ministry distinct?
Who benefits from this form of counseling?
What do you expect from those you counsel?
What does this service cost?
What is the first step in setting up a counseling session?

Q: Is there anything that makes your counseling and discipleship ministry distinct?

A: Our staff is trained in Nouthetic (Bible-based) counseling. To find out basic information regarding this form of counseling, please read our Philosophy of Counseling. Also, we offer periodic seminars to help equip people to deal with a variety of issues in their lives.

Q: Who benefits from this form of counseling?

A: Anyone who may have struggles in their marriage, step-families learning to function or those facing issues raising their children and teens; those dealing with addictions, depression, coping with a lost loved one, or just about any matter you are facing. The key to finding answers is in applying God's Word to specific problems; our staff is especially trained to help you do that.

Q: What do you expect from those you counsel?

A: We ask that you be open and honest in the counseling process. It is very hard, if not impossible, to help you if you are not honest with us. We also ask that you do specific, weekly assignments that we will assign you throughout the counseling process. We will be considerate and understanding to the amount of time you have to do these assignments but keep in mind, our goal is to help you change. Change is done not only in the counseling session but in application of these principles in everyday life.

Q: What does this service cost?

A: Our counseling services are free of charge. It is our goal to help people in their lives. We believe this is ultimately done through application of God's Word to problems you may have. Thus, we would consider it a honor and a privilege to help you.

Q: What is the first step in setting up a counseling session?

A: Contact us via email or by phone, (219) 763-1827, to set up an appointment. To gain a better understanding of you and the situation you are facing, we ask everyone we counsel to fill out two forms. If you would like a head start on filling out those forms, you can download them below:
Personal Data Inventory
Immediate Situation Form

*If more than one person is coming for counsel, we ask that each person fill out these forms.

Portage Avenue Baptist Church

Serving Porter and Lake County, Portage, Valparaiso, South Haven, Hobart, Lake Station, Chesterton, Porter, Burns Harbor and all of Northwest Indiana 46368