Christian Counseling Center In Need Of Assistance

The Christian Counseling Center is dipping into its financial reserves to provide counseling services to clients in need.

The non-profit organization has faced a drastic demand increase due to the economic and psychological impact of the pandemic. Executive Director Donna Cielma said she’s seen a lot of previous clients return to the center.

“They’ve lost their jobs because of COVID, and as a result [they’ve] had a decrease in what they’re able to pay,” Cielma said. “Meaning, we subsidize a larger amount of the counseling.”

Cielma said funding comes from grants, churches, and public donations. She said the counseling has never had to subsidize as many clients as they have now. The counseling center provides sessions to any client in need, regardless of their ability to pay.

Four certified counselors work to provide depression, anxiety, and loss counseling to clients. Cielma said the pandemic has caused a lot of relationship strains. She said over 50 percent of clients are 25 and younger.

“We have a significant population of married couples, and that population as well as in the young adult population, is where we’re seeing significant job loss,” Cielma said.

Depression and anxiety counseling is needed now more than ever before, Cielma said.

To donate to the Crossville Christian Counseling Center, call 931-707-8200.