A Sample Pastor's Counseling Policy
I believe it is very important before we begin our counseling process that you understand my policy and philosophy toward pastoral, biblical counseling. Please read the following; and if you have any questions concerning this policy, please feel free to discuss them with me.
1. I am not a licensed, professional counselor.
I am a pastor who will use the Word of God as my text, the Holy Spirit as my guide, and Jesus Christ as my model. I assume that almost every conflict in our lives is the result of a spiritual problem. While this may not always be the case, that will be our starting point. Because this is not licensed counseling, I will not be held liable for what may be understood as professional malpractice.
2. There are no financial fees for pastoral counseling.
However, it will cost you time, honesty, and hard work. There may be some financial costs for tests administered, books required, or materials distributed; but we will not let the lack of funds stand in the way of this counseling process.
3. It is not my practice or purpose to counsel individuals or couples over an extended period of time.
If such counseling is needed, you will be referred to a licensed professional counselor. I will continue to touch base with you and your licensed counselor if you choose and give written permission to do so.
4. It is my policy to counsel women alone only one time.
After this one session, if there is a need for further counseling or discipleship, I will refer you to a woman in our church who will assist you further. If you then want to continue to talk with me, the three of us will do so together. If your husband is willing and available, I will also continue the counseling with you with him present.
5. It is also my policy to counsel children with their parents present, if at all possible. These sessions may include private talks combined with a time of talking with the parent in the room with us.
6. Homework assignments will be given after each session, and a following session will not be scheduled until the assignment is completed.
When scheduling an appointment through my secretary, she may ask you if you have completed all assignments given. If the assignments have not been completed, she may not schedule you without first talking to me. Doing outside assignments is vital to your future spiritual and emotional health.
I have read the Pastor's Counseling Policy and agree to adhere to it.
_______________________________ _____________________
(signature) (date)
Note about this Pastor's Counseling Policy: This previously published policy was developed by Pastor Joe McKinney. This form is provided as information only and is not intended nor should it be construed as legal advice. If your church chooses to adopt a counseling policy, it should be reviewed and approved by your church's attorney. Laws related to counseling vary from state to state.
Download a one-page reproducible sheet in .pdf format:
You will need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and print this file.
- Share this:
-
Blink
-
Del.icio.us
-
Digg
-
Furl
-
Simpy
-
Spurl
-
Y! MyWeb