news-record.com

Financial burdens brought on by a weakened economy can be emotionally taxing on struggling families. A Greensboro nonprofit wants to help.

Presbyterian Counseling Center hopes to help people address the personal pain of the financial downturn stressing local families and individuals by offering a "A Hand Up," a low-cost counseling program beginning in January.

Each person would participate for up to 12 weeks, receiving counseling sessions with professional counselors.

"We have certified and licensed counselors who are volunteering their time and expertise to help anyone struggling to cope with stress, depression, anxiety, or relationship distress caused by job loss, mortgage crises or financial troubles in the Triad area," executive director Jack Hileman said.

The program is accepting applicants through February, with counseling services ending in May. "Anyone may apply," Hileman said. "And those who cannot pay much of anything for the counseling program to help get their inner lives on an even keel so they can face the stresses our lurching economy is causing right now are welcome."

The program is made possible through the support of 15 Presbyterian and Lutheran churches in the area, which give Presbyterian Counseling Center thousands of dollars yearly toward underwriting a limited number of low-cost counseling sessions for those who cannot pay for the help they need.

Hileman said more than $50,000 in donated counseling services will be provided this year at the center, beyond the counseling and psychiatric medical services normally provided there for those using insurance. Anyone wishing to apply for "A Hand Up" at Presbyterian Counseling Center may call 288-1484 or e-mail jsweet@presbyteriancounseling.org.

Contact Adria Hairston at 883-4422, Ext. 244, or adria.hairston@news-record.com