Pastoral Family Assistance Program

Pastoral Family Assistance Program

A confidential counseling service for pastors of the District of Northern Indiana Church of the Brethren and their families

What is the Pastoral Family Assistance Program?

Pastors and their families are people too! Like everyone else, you have problems which need attention and, sometimes, professional help. Through the Pastoral Family Assistance Program (PFAP), Oaklawn counselors offer confidential evaluation, short-term counseling, and referral, at no cost to pastoral families.

Who can use the program?

The PFAP is available to licensed and ordained pastors and associate pastors who are at least half-time, immediate family members, as well as retired ministers and spouses and other ordained church employees. These services are also available to licensed ministers who are employed in a congregational setting at least half-time.

Your PFAP counselor can assist you with a wide range of personal problems which might include:

• • individual emotional problems

  • substance abuse or chemical dependency

  • marital and family conflicts

  • financial worries

  • career concerns/transitions

  • work stress

  • retirement adjustments

How do I schedule an appointment?

You or your family member may call Oaklawn's Access Center about the Pastoral Family Assistance Program. When you call, identify yourself as a person who is eligible for the services of the PFAP, explain briefly your reasons for calling, and a confidential interview will be scheduled for you.

During the interview, your counselor will discuss the problem with you, develop a plan of action and, if necessary, direct you to community resources that can give you additional help.

If you have an emergency situation, you may talk with someone immediately through Oaklawn's 24-hour crisis service. For any of these services, you may call (574) 533-1234, or call toll fee at 800-282-0809.

Is it confidential?

Yes! No information concerning your use of the program or the content of your discussions will be made available to anyone, including your local or denominational church leaders, without your written consent. Strict confidentiality is observed!

Who are the counselors?

You will be scheduled to see one of Oaklawn's pastoral counselors. Our pastoral counseling staff have varied areas of expertise and you will be matched with the therapist who can best help you with your problem.

What is the cost?

There is no cost to you for PFAP services. You and your family are entitled to five visits per year for the purpose of evaluation, short-term counseling, and referral. Oaklawn will submit insurance claims on your behalf. Should further treatment be necessary, your co-insurance responsibilities would apply.

OAKLAWN

Toward Health and Wholeness

330 Lakeview Drive - P.O. Box 809

Goshen, Indiana 46527

(574) 533-1234 / 800-292-0809

www.oaklawn.org