The Christian Counseling Center of First Presbyterian Church

10/31/2025

🎃👻 Just a friendly reminder this Halloween:

It may carry different meanings for many, but as believers, we rest in this truth:
“The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” — 1 John 4:4 (NIV)

No matter what the world calls “unhallowed,” Jesus reigns supreme.

“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.” — Colossians 2:15 (NIV)

So tonight, whether you’re enjoying candy, costumes, or cozy fall festivities, remember the victory has already been won.

Wishing you a safe, sweet, and blessed Halloween, friends! 🍬

10/29/2025

A new collaboration just dropped!

Join Forever Changed Films on Friday November 7th from 7:00-9:00pm to view the newest installment of the Sound Mind documentary series.

Episode 5, entitled "Tangled Tired Mind," takes a clinical perspective on OCD, marriage conflict, and alcohol use while ultimately pointing towards the God who heals.

It also features commentary from our Executive Director, Dr. Brian Mesimer!

The registration link can be found here: https://foreverchanged.breezechms.com/form/01f226153287

10/27/2025

Can boundaries really be biblical? Absolutely.

Boundaries are more than personal limits; they’re part of living out healthy, God-honoring relationships. They protect our emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being while helping us say yes to what God is calling us to and no to what pulls us away from His purpose.

📖 “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

💛 Boundaries guard our relationships, allowing love, respect, and honesty to flourish.
💛 Boundaries show love and respect, as we speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15, NIV).
💛 Boundaries reflect God’s wisdom, guiding us toward discernment and peace.

Boundaries aren’t walls to shut others out; they’re tools to help us walk wisely, love deeply, and follow God’s will with clarity.

If you’re seeking guidance on creating healthy, biblical boundaries, we’re here to walk with you.

Reach out today to schedule an appointment: www.christiancounseling.ws

10/21/2025

As the seasons shift, so often do our emotions. Some feel energized by crisp mornings and fresh routines, while others find shorter days and fading light heavy on the heart.

Both responses are valid, and both remind us of our need to pause and check in with ourselves.

🍂 How is your mood from week to week?
🍂 Are you getting the rest you need?
🍂 Do you have support from people who lift you up and support you?
🍂 Are you making space to meet with God in this season?

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV) reminds us: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

Whatever season you’re in, God’s presence remains steady. And if you need someone to walk with you through the ups and downs, our counselors are here to help. 💛

Reach out today to schedule an appointment: www.christiancounseling.ws

10/15/2025

Ever feel like you’re barely holding on, like a reed already bruised and about to break?

Richard Sibbes, a 17th-century preacher often referred to as the “heavenly doctor,” wrote a book called “The Bruised Reed” that still speaks comfort today.

Drawing from Isaiah 42:3, he reminds us that Jesus does not crush the weak or snuff out the struggling. Instead, Christ meets us in gentleness and kindness, knowing our weaknesses and failures yet still choosing to draw near.

“A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice.” — Isaiah 42:3 (NIV)

When we feel faint or fragile, the gospel promises us a Savior who sympathizes with our weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15) and tenderly builds us up in love.

“The Bruised Reed” is a short, deeply encouraging read, reminding us that in Christ, our weakness is not the end of the story.

10/09/2025

Voting remains open until Monday October 13. Please consider voting for us!

We are elated to be nominated once again for Best Counselor 2026 by ! Voting is now open, so please go cast your vote at https://columbiametro.com/best-of-columbia-ballot/

10/07/2025

No one deserves to live in fear.

Domestic violence impacts not only the body, but also the heart, mind, and spirit. It can leave survivors feeling isolated, unseen, and unsure where to turn.

We stand with survivors:
💜 Abuse is never your fault
💜 You are worthy of love and safety
💜 Healing is possible with support and care

If you or someone you love is in an unsafe situation, you are not alone. The Christian Counseling Center is here to listen, to support, and to walk with you toward hope and healing.

📞 If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
📞 Call us at (803) 779-1995 to connect with a counselor.
📞 For 24/7 confidential help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org.

Your story matters. Your safety matters. You matter.

10/03/2025

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

A breast cancer journey doesn’t only affect the body; it impacts the mind, heart, and spirit, too.

If you or someone you love is walking this road, it’s okay to feel the weight of fear, sadness, or even numbness. Emotional health matters just as much as physical health.

💗 Be honest about your feelings before God
💗 Lean on your community for strength and support
💗 Rest in the truth that His peace surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7)

At the Christian Counseling Center, we are here to listen, to walk with you, and to remind you that you are never alone. You are deeply loved, and you are held in God’s care. If you’re ready to take the next step toward healing, reach out today to schedule an appointment: www.christiancounseling.ws

10/01/2025

“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.” — Jeremiah 3:15 (NIV)

Where would we be without the pastors who pray for us, guide us, and faithfully point us back to Christ? 💛

This month, we pause to honor and celebrate the pastors and spiritual leaders who serve so faithfully in our communities.

To our beloved pastors, thank you for:
🙏 Your unwavering faith that points us back to God’s truth
🙏 Your prayers that cover us in ways we may never see
🙏 Your humble leadership through both joys and challenges
🙏 Your daily example of Christ’s love in action

Your labor is not in vain. You are deeply valued, and we are grateful for the sacrifices you make to shepherd God’s people.

Happy Pastoral Appreciation Month! We celebrate you today and always.

09/30/2025

¡El centro tiene una consejera bilingüe! Podemos servir la comunidad hispana y celebramos que nuestra ciudad es diversa.

Did you know that The Christian Counseling Center has a Spanish-speaking bilingual counselor? Ariana Mendez Copeland joined our team a few years back as an LPCA and is open for clients.

Ariana most often works with women in various stages of life - primarily focusing on young adults in college and early career along with mothers to explore anxiety, depression, healthy boundaries, and relational health. Ariana also extends her services to the Spanish-speaking community through her bilingual skills from her Mexican-American background.

Ariana puede asistir con conflictos de familia, de salud emocional, y con efectos de ansiedad y depresión.

Estoy aquí y quiero escuchar. I am here, and I want to listen.

Ariana can be requested as a counselor through our website and found on Psychology Today.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/ariana-m-copeland-columbia-sc/1458068

https://www.christiancounseling.ws/

We provide the highest level of Christian counseling seeking to have an eternal impact in the world.

FYI we do not respond to client communication via social media. Please call 803-779-1995 to reach our staff.

09/29/2025

Struggling to pray lately? You're not alone. 💬🙏

Many faithful believers, even throughout Scripture, have faced seasons when prayer feels difficult. You may be experiencing this for several reasons:

💛 You may lack consistency or training (1 Timothy 4:8)
💛 Life may be too noisy for quiet “desolate places” (Luke 5:16)
💛 Your assurance of faith may feel shaken (Hebrews 4:15)
💛 You might be unsure of God's goodness or attentiveness (Luke 11:11)
💛 Ongoing disobedience or relational conflict can create barriers (Proverbs 21:13, 1 Peter 3:7)
💛 You may wonder if God hears your prayers (Job 9:33–35)

The good news is this: the antidote to struggling with prayer is still prayer.

Because of Jesus, your prayers rise to the throne of grace. He understands your weakness, welcomes your honesty, and invites you to draw near in love.

So when prayer feels hard, don’t give up. Come to Him, just as you are.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28 (NIV)

09/24/2025

Seasonal changes can impact more than your schedule. They can also affect your mental and emotional well-being. 🍂

As the days grow shorter and routines shift, some find energy in the change. Others feel the weight of falling leaves and fading sunlight. This is a great time to pause and check in with yourself:

💛 How is my mood from week to week?
💛 Am I feeling rested and getting enough sleep?
💛 Are there any physical health issues I need to address?
💛 Am I spending time with people who support my mental wellbeing?

If you've noticed changes in your mood with past seasons, now is the time to be proactive. Talking with a counselor or connecting with your physician can preserve your energy and help you stay well, especially as the holidays approach.

Need accountability? Reach out to a trusted friend and share the steps you're taking toward mental wellness.

And if you're anticipating grief or emotional difficulty in the coming months, our counselors are here to walk alongside you with care and compassion. 💛