Virtual Counseling
Can God use Virtual Counseling?
by Keith Phillips, DMin., LPC, LPC-S
A New Normal
It is an understatement to say that March of 2020 was the beginning of rethinking a new normal. COVID-19 saw to it. In addition to taking new precautions for our health, coloring outside the lines became essential to moving forward in many ways.
Here at New Day Counseling we understood that the pain, confusion, brokenness, and the difficulties of life would not adhere to the presence of a pandemic; they actually become more of a reality. So as ministers called to the counseling ministry we had to step out of our comfort zone if we were to be obedient to Christ and the servants of others.
. . . the pain, confusion, brokenness, and the difficulties of life would not adhere to the presence of a pandemic; they actually become more of a reality.
This leads me to the topic of virtual / online counseling. It is different, I agree. However, it is an adjustment that can be very effective. We believe that God is still working, still speaking into our lives. He is not waiting out the pandemic. He is at work in our souls.
Unconventional Processes for Serious Change
Sometimes God presents us with an unconventional process to see if we are serious about change in our lives, and sometimes He works through an unorthodox manner to reveal something about His character that we have not known.
Let’s consider the various and changing platforms of Jesus as He spoke truth into people’s lives. He was on hillsides, in deserts, and on water. He touched lives from boats, gardens, temples, grave yards, and private homes. None of these hindered the power or reception of the message, though they were obviously different and unique in their own right.
. . . God will use anything at any time for anyone who will trust Him.
We read in Exodus 15 that for three days after their miraculous release from Egypt, the children of Israel had found no water until they arrived at a place called Marah. Here they found water but it was unimaginably bitter and they complained. God instructs Moses to take an old piece of wood that was lying on the ground and cast it into the water, and instantly the water became drinkable.
Learning to live the redeemed life is an ongoing process. God wants us as He did these tired and thirsty Israelites to be willing to no longer think like they are still in Egypt, which is a picture of the world systems oppression. He wanted them to see that the redeemed life is recognizing that God will use anything at any time for anyone who will trust Him.
If God would use a weathered, unwanted, old piece of wood to change water to satisfy a physical need, isn’t it possible that He would use a virtual counseling process to satisfy a soul that is experiencing the bitterness of our current events?
Consider these three benefits of Virtual Counseling:
EFFECTIVE
. . .Online treatment was just as effective as face-to-face treatment for depression.
Obviously the virtual session is not designed to equal all of the benefits of a face to face counseling experience, however, we are discovering that the virtual format is working very well with many. Also, research documented by the Journal of Affective Disorders has found that online treatment was just as effective as face-to-face treatment for depression.[1]
SECURE
At New Day, our counselors adhere to strict professional and ethical client confidentiality codes. This is why we intentionally researched and chose a top of the line resource as HIPAA-approved, Cisco WebEx.
Feel free to check them out on the link provided. https://www.hipaajournal.com/cisco-webex-hipaa-compliant/
CONVENIENT
With virtual counseling you can connect from anywhere with your computer or cell phone. Plus, you do not have to think about traffic, weather, or the expense of driving to your session. You can stay at your home or any place you feel is confidential and safe for your appointment time. For some virtual counseling is less threatening than traditional face to face therapy.
Just wanted you to know that we are here to serve, so consider contacting New Day Counseling about a virtual / online session. We would consider it a privilege to meet you and to get to know you. Just call 699-4290 or go to www.www.fbs.org/care. We look forward to hearing from you!
[1] Morin, Amy. “Does Online Therapy Work: Here’s What Science Says.” Accessed July 7, 2020. https://www.inc.com/amy-morin/does-online-therapy-work-heres-what-science-says.html