Counseling for Teens and College Students from Ministry Families
Most of us have heard the jokes about pastor’s kids or missionary kids. They either go crazy and turn into a sort of prodigal or they some think they are weird. It’s not a funny joke when it is your child struggling with adjusting to having a family in ministry. Families in ministry are often in unique situations when it comes to work/life balance and parenting. The life of a parent in ministry can often involve long and unusual hours, a revolving door of guests at home, stress, and oftentimes feelings of isolation, and more.
Ministry can also take a toll on a family.Pastor’s kids and missionary kids feel the pressure of living in a glass house as many people look to a pastor or minister as an example. Kids may struggle with various issues such as adjusting to a different culture or feeling of being left behind by their peers if they have been on the mission field. Pastor and missionary families also deal with possible moves to new churches, cities, and even other countries. Pastor’s kids might also struggle with feeling that they are not as important as the member’s in their parent’s church or even may feel they come second to their parent’s calling. They may feel fearful or scared to speak up for themselves and their own needs if they are afraid of how it would reflect on their parents and their careers.. Other kids may exhibit outward behaviors that may seem rebellious in an effort to gain attention, fit in, or find their own identity.
Does your teen son or college exhibit any of the following behaviors?
Withdrawn at times
Does not seem to want to open up to parents
Changes in appearances
Anxious behaviors such as avoiding events
Appearing more irritable or upset about parent’s profession
Difficulty making friends or relating to peers
Counseling can provide a safe space for your son to explore his struggles, feelings, and attitudes to help him navigate growing up in a ministry family. One of the toughest struggles a parent in ministry can face is seeing their child struggle and feeling fearful or possible shame to reach out for help. Families may feel defeated and even wonder if they admit they are struggling, they are questioning faith or God. I understand the tough decision it can be to acknowledge the struggles and share that you are struggling as a family and reach out for help. Your family’s story is sacred and can be honored while also finding help.
Beyond seeing clients I am active in my church, Cross Point Nashville, and I work with young adults through Nashville Young Life as well. I also have experience as a pastor’s kid as and as a missionary kid who has lived a foreign country. I have a passion to help connect with kids who are navigating the unique position they have been put in due to their family’s careers and calling. I provide individual counseling for teens and college students of ministry families at my office located near Hillsboro Village. Special rates are available for families in ministry.