Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministry is a spiritual care-giving ministry that provides one-on-one, confidential care to people hurting in the church and community. NOTE: this ministry is for individual spiritual care-giving only; it is not for couples or family counseling. For these types of support, we recommend connecting with a licensed professional counselor (see below).
Who are Stephen Ministers?
What are Stephen Ministers?
Stephen Ministers are church members trained to provide one-on-one, confidential, Christ-centered care. They attend Christian care-giving training, then are matched with a care-receiver – men are paired with men, women with women. They meet with their care-receivers weekly to listen to, pray with and for, and encourage them in their struggles. This care lasts as long as the need persists. In addition, Stephen Ministers differ from informal friendships in that they follow guidelines for spiritual care-giving that include formal, structured care meetings.
What do Stephen Ministers do?
Stephen Ministers are trained lay volunteers who provide spiritual support for individuals facing difficult times in life, such as grief, cancer, divorce, hospitalization, chronic illness, job loss, loneliness, or other life struggles. If you would like more information on how a Stephen Minister can provide spiritual support for you, contact Rev. Mike Flynn.
Please note that support for psychological disorders, substance abuse, couples/marriage, or minors should be addressed by a professional counselor. In addition, needs such as transportation, shopping/errands, child care, or legal/medical advice should be addressed by licensed professional agencies/individuals.
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Professional Counseling Services
Laurie M Kendig
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
My goal with every client is to create a relaxed, personal and safe environment where you can feel supported in your journey. While I actively partner with a client, I believe that therapy is about offering guidance, reflections and ideas; therapy is not about telling a client what to do! Together we identify goals, prioritize steps and solve problems. Through therapy, you will learn the skills needed to successfully overcome the challenges your are facing in your life.
I have worked with children, adults and families for over 10 years and am passionate about helping my clients find answers to the challenges they are facing. I work to help individuals live their best life in the coming years. I hope to meet with you soon!
Specialties: ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome / Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills & Self Care, Depression, Family Conflict, Grief, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Parenting, School Issues, Self Esteem, Social & Emotional Learning.
For more information, contact Rev. Mike Flynn.
When is a good time to see a counselor?
Counseling can help people who are…
- Having difficulty with separation or divorce
- Feeling a loss of meaning in life
- Suffering physical, sexual, verbal or emotional abuse
- Experiencing loss or grief
- Suffering addictions or compulsions
- Challenged by life transitions
Counseling can help people who feel…
- Depressed or anxious
- Lonely or isolated
- Fear, anger or helplessness
- Confusion or a sense of low self-esteem
Counseling can help people having difficulty…
- Establishing and maintaining healthy relationships
- Making good life choices
- Providing appropriate parenting
- Being satisfied and productive at work or school
- Coping with life’s stresses