How is discipleship different from counseling?

At SoZoLiFe, our method of Christ-focused discipleship is centered on the finished work of Christ and on His resurrection-life.  We believe the Holy Spirit is the teacher and counselor. In this biblical approach to discipleship, we do not teach an individual how to try harder with God's help, how to change himself/herself, or how to improve his/her self-image. God has never intended for His children to live in their own sufficiency but in Christ's sufficiency.  Thus, God is recognized as the agent of change in the lives of those who cooperate with Him. People that come to us are hurting and have often tried many other types of secular counseling and are sometimes ready to give up. We simply show hurting people scriptural  truths regarding who they really are "in Christ."

SoZoLiFe  is not about changing a Christian's life, but exchanging a self-centered life for a Christ-focused life.

Emotional, behavioral and relational problems are dealt with in a Christ-focused, Bible-based atmosphere of love, grace, acceptance, understanding, confidentiality, and prayer. 

Discipleship is usually done in homes, in local churches and in coffee shops.

How long do sessions last?

Discipleship sessions are an hour in length. This constitutes one discipleship hour.

How many sessions will there be?

This varies from person to person but typically the process is approximately one session a week for 10-12 weeks.

What if I am unable to keep my appointment?

Please give 24-hour notice of cancellation so your time can be given to others who are waiting.

What about homework?

Since our discipleship is biblical and Christ-focused, you will be given homework assignments that will help lead you into greater truth about your life in Christ Jesus.  There will also be books which we may recommend that you  purchase and read.  If you have difficulty purchasing books, please let us know so that we can help accommodate you.  

All homework must be completed prior to each session

Are these sessions confidential?

All of the sessions are entirely confidential.  Our commitment to confidentiality may be waived under the following two situations: (1) intention to harm self or others and/or (2) any instance of child abuse, neglect or molestation.  

What are the qualifications of the staff?

In addition to life experiences, our spiritual directors have been on staff at area churches and have gone through a training process in discipleship and counseling through Exchanged Life Ministries in Aurora, Colorado (www.elmcolo.org), part of the larger Association of Exchanged Life Ministries (www.aelm.org).  Since SoZoLiFe is spiritually oriented and not psychologically oriented, we do not look at secular standards as necessary qualifications for the work we do.

How much do individual discipleship sessions cost?

We count it a privilege to be used by God to disciple and share God’s grace.  We ask for a donation of $20 per session; you will be given a charitable contribution receipt for your gift to this non-profit ministry.   Your gift to this ministry will be used to promote the message of grace to others. No one will ever be turned away for their inability to pay the suggested donation amount. Please talk to Julie or Deb about payment options.