Biblical Counseling

Biblical counseling is a form of intensive discipleship that applies the truths of Scripture to the real problems of life. Our counselors help you identify the heart issues behind life’s struggles and guide you toward lasting change by the power of God’s Word and Spirit. This is not psychological therapy, but spiritual care rooted in the gospel.

• Hope – Because of Jesus Christ, you are never alone. He understands suffering and offers you grace in every struggle (Hebrews 4:14-16). God promises to provide a way through every temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13).
• Change – In Christ, we can put off old, sinful habits and grow in godly living. Counseling will help you make real, practical changes that reflect Christlikeness (Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 1:10).
• Practice – We’re not just hearers of the Word, but doers (James 1:22-25). You’ll be equipped to apply Scripture to daily life in ways that glorify God and produce peace.

No. We believe in caring for the whole person—body and soul. If a medical issue is suspected or known, your counselor may recommend a medical evaluation. In some cases, counseling may occur alongside medical care.

No. Our counseling ministry is available to both members and the broader community. However, because we believe the local church is God’s primary context for lasting change and discipleship (Hebrews 10:24-25), we ask that all counselees be involved in a Bible-teaching church. Central Church members are given scheduling priority, and we may contact your church leaders to partner in your care.

• Children (up to 5th grade): Pastor Justin Halverson
• Students (6th–12th grade): Eric Jones or a member of the student ministry team
• Teen girls or women: Ellen Olford, Director of Women

In most cases, we kindly request that children not attend adult counseling sessions to ensure focused care and uninterrupted conversation. However, in certain situations, such as parent-child conflict or when a child’s behavior is a central concern, your counselor may request that your child participate in a session.

Childcare is available through Kids Club on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Please confirm availability with your counselor in advance. For those receiving counseling on Wednesday evenings, children and student programs are also offered during the Fall and Spring Equip Class semesters from 6:15 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

• There is a threat of harm to yourself or others.
• Abuse or criminal activity is disclosed.
• Your church leadership needs relevant information to provide biblical care (Hebrews 13:17).
• A counseling supervisor or elder requires access for oversight purposes.
• A court of law subpoenas counseling notes. In such cases, Central Church will seek to limit disclosure as much as legally possible while complying with applicable laws.

We provide short-term, goal-based counseling, typically lasting 6–10 sessions. Our goal is not long-term dependency, but equipping you to walk in obedience, healing, and connection with your local church.

No. Our counselors serve in a ministry capacity and are not licensed therapists. Many are certified or pursuing certification with the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC), and all serve under the pastoral supervision of Central Church’s elders.

• Competent to Counsel – Jay Adams
• Pursuing Peace – Robert Jones
• A Theology of Biblical Counseling – Heath Lambert
• Counseling: How to Counsel Biblically – John MacArthur
• Seeing with New Eyes – David Powlison
• Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands – Paul Tripp
• The Peacemaker – Ken Sande

• When Sinners Say I Do – Dave Harvey
• This Momentary Marriage – John Piper
• Strengthening Your Marriage – Wayne Mack
• Shepherding a Child’s Heart – Tedd Tripp
• When Good Kids Make Bad Choices – Fitzpatrick & Newheiser

• Finally Free – Heath Lambert (purity)
• Uprooting Anger – Robert Jones
• The Freedom and Power of Forgiveness – John MacArthur
• Peacemaking for Families – Ken Sande
• Men Counseling Men – John Street & John MacArthur
• The Biblical Counseling Guide for Women – John & Janie Street
• Depression: Looking Up from the Stubborn Darkness – Ed Welch
• Running Scared – Ed Welch

• Family Worship – Donald S. Whitney
• What is the Meaning of Sex? – Denny Burk
• Complete Guide to Money – Dave Ramsey
• Whole Marriages in a Broken World – Gary Inrig
• Married for God – Christopher Ash
• Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles – Paul David Tripp
• Your Child’s Profession of Faith – Dennis Gundersen

• Women of the Word – Jen Wilkin
• None Like Him – Jen Wilkin
• True Beauty – Carolyn Mahaney & Nicole Whitacre
• Girls Gone Wise in a World Gone Wild – Mary Kassian
• The Pursuit of God – A.W. Tozer