Emmaus Road Counseling Center

06/25/2025

As I’m sure many of you have heard, Dr. Gayle Samples will be stepping down as CEO of Emmaus Road, effective June 30, 2025. We are excited to announce that Dr. Jana Plant will be stepping into the role of CEO of Emmaus Road, effective July 1, 2025. The Emmaus Road Board of Directors unanimously voted to appoint her to this important position, where she will oversee all operations and clinical supervision.

Dr. Plant brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to our mission. She joined Emmaus Road in 2009 as a clinical supervisor while additionally serving as Lead Clinician/Supervisor at Hathaway–Sycamores Children and Family Services. In 2011, she stepped into the role of part-time Clinical Director and transitioned to full-time in 2018. In 2022, she was named Executive Director.

Earning her doctoral degree from Regent University, the title of her dissertation was: Mental Health Services for Private Christian Schools: A Resource Manual. Under her leadership, Emmaus has expanded significantly, now serving 11 Christian schools and colleges, partnering with 5 churches, and increasing our office locations from 2 to 5.

Jana is deeply committed to ensuring that biblically-informed, clinically-based psychotherapy is accessible to everyone, regardless of financial situation. Thanks to her vision and dedication, Emmaus Road continues to bring the healing work of Jesus to those in need.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Jana Plant on her new role and in supporting her as she leads Emmaus Road into an exciting new chapter.

With gratitude,
Dr. Terry Samples, Chairman of the Board

Emmaus Road Christian Counseling

03/06/2025

Dear Friends and Partners,
I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out to share exciting work we’re doing at Emmaus Road Counseling Center and to ask for your support during a crucial time.
Nearly 18 years ago, Drs. Terry and Gayle Samples founded Emmaus Road Christian Counseling Center with a mission to provide counseling for students at Life Pacific University (formerly Life Bible College). We knew that those preparing for ministry often need emotional and mental health support, and we wanted to help.
Under the leadership of Dr. Jana Plant, our mission has included private Christian schools and community members. Today, we serve:
• Christian schools (K-12 and colleges)
• Churches
• Several organizations, including Passion LA, which empowers inner-city youth to break the cycle of poverty and develop leadership skills.
Additionally, we provide training and therapy for leaders, workers, and individuals in need—often at little to no cost. Our commitment is rooted in a simple yet powerful belief: competent faith based therapy should be a human right, not a privilege.

Recently, we expanded our services to support families affected by the devastating Southern California fires, offering free counseling to those in crisis. Every day, we witness lives being transformed through the work God has called us to do.
However, we now face a challenge. Some of our funding was cut last year, placing us at a crossroads.
We deeply believe in the value of what we do, and we are reaching out to ask for your partnership. Would you prayerfully consider supporting Emmaus Road Counseling Center with a one-time gift?
https://www.emmausroadcounseling.com/donate
Your generosity will enable us to continue providing life-changing counseling, compassion, and faith-filled support to those in need.
Thank you for your prayers, support, and partnership in this vital mission.
With gratitude and hope,
Jana
Emmaus Road Counseling Center

You can be part of a movement that helps the lives of individuals and lifts up the entire community. Your gift means we will never have to turn away someone who needs help. Your gift will help fuel quality care for those who are struggling.

01/31/2025

We know that in times of crisis, the weight of loss, uncertainty, and rebuilding can feel overwhelming. If you’ve been impacted by the California fires, you don’t have to go through this alone.

Emmaus Road Counseling Center is offering free counseling sessions to support you during this difficult time. We are here to walk alongside you, providing a safe space to process, heal, and find hope.

If you or someone you know could use support, please fill out the link below. You are not alone—we're here for you.

🔗 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/18U8xa7pxrXVEd-roC9-Ji8zqHHy_yt6zkU2L9zCVFjs/edit?ts=679d39e9

Please use this form to submit a request for 10 sessions of pro bono counseling sessions to victims of the California fires.

08/28/2024

Check out our new blog post

The political season has a way of intensifying emotions, and it can put relationships with friends and family to the test. But there is hope. With a few simple strategies, you can maintain those important connections, even when opinions differ. Let’s explore how you can navigate this time with gra...

12/10/2023

Forgiveness is often easier said than done.

It’s a complex emotional process that requires letting go of resentment and the desire for revenge.

Forgiving someone doesn't mean you condone their actions, but it does free you from the chains of bitterness.

Studies even show that the act of forgiving can lead to lower levels of stress and improved mental health.

As challenging as it may be, forgiveness is a gift you give yourself.

12/07/2023

The birth of a child is exhilarating but also exhausting. As we approach the holiday season, the focus often shifts from couple dynamics to family planning and baby's first holidays.

New parents, remember: your relationship with each other needs attention too.

Regularly check in with each other about feelings and expectations.

Whether it's planning a small date night or simply sharing a warm drink after the baby's asleep, make time for each other.

12/04/2023

As the year winds down, many families begin to think about vacation plans.

Whether it's a tropical getaway or a winter wonderland you're after, the key to a successful family vacation lies in the planning. Involve everyone in the process to ensure each member gets to do something they enjoy.

Remember, vacations aren't just about the destination; they're about spending quality time together. So, let go of perfection and focus on creating memories that will last a lifetime.

12/01/2023

Ah, the holidays! A time for joy, celebration, and, sometimes, a little bit of family tension.

Managing relationships with extended family during holiday gatherings can be complex.

Different generations come with various expectations, traditions, and, yes, opinions. It's essential to set boundaries while fostering an atmosphere of respect and inclusivity.

Keep in mind that the holidays are an excellent opportunity for creating cherished family memories.

Aim for a balanced approach that honors family traditions but also respects individual needs and preferences.

11/30/2023

Our hearts are full as we reflect on the incredible outpouring of support on GivingTuesday. Your donations, shares, and kind words mean the world to us and the communities we serve.

Thank you. You are making a difference.



Donate here: https://www.emmausroadcounseling.com/donate

11/29/2023

Thank you to everyone who joined us in making yesterday's GivingTuesday a tremendous success! Your generosity will help us care for many more in our community in the upcoming year.

Your year-end gift to Emmaus Road Counseling Center will have a lasting impact on individuals and families struggling with mental health issues.

Your financial support enables us to continue offering scholarships, update our resources, and broaden our range of services.

It's more than just a donation; it's a contribution to a world where mental health is prioritized and stigma is eradicated.

Thank you for your gift! We are so grateful!



Donate here: https://www.emmausroadcounseling.com/donate