George C. Olson, M.A., LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Salem Pastoral Counseling Center
565 Union St. NE Suite 100
Salem, OR 97301-2460
Telephone: (503) 370-8050
Philosophy and Approach to Counseling
I believe that individuals are capable of change when given the right tools, a heightened self-awareness and empowerment to take control of their lives. I recognize and affirm the wholeness of the individual: mentally, emotionally, physically, socially and spiritually. I am aware of my values as a Christian and I do not impose my values on my clients. I practice helping clients understand and clarify their own values as applied to their life needs.
I employ an integrative and strength-based approach to counseling with a strong reliance on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Positive Psychotherapy utilizing individual, couples and group counseling, biblio-therapy and homework assignments.
If for any reason I determine that I do not have the experience, training or knowledge to work with your particular concerns, I will refer you to another professional who is prepared to work with your presenting concerns.
Formal Education and Training
I hold a Masters Degree in Counseling from George Fox University in Portland, Oregon. I am trained in the PREPARE/Enrich assessment and the Taylor-Johnson Temperament Analysis. I am a certified facilitator for the Am I Hungry? Mindful Eating Weight Maintenance Program.
Major coursework has included human growth and development, human sexuality, marriage and family therapy, personality and counseling theories, career development and lifestyle counseling, group theory and principles and techniques of counseling, psychopathology, psychopharmacology, and professional orientation and ethics.
I am a member of the American Counseling Association, the Oregon Counseling Association, the National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists and the International Positive Psychology Association.
As a Licensee of the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapist, I abide by its Code of Ethics as well as the Code of Ethics of The American Counseling Association and the National Board for Certified Counselors. To maintain my license I am required to participate in annual continuing education, taking classes dealing with subjects relevant to my profession.
Fee Schedule
Fees for counseling services are $105.00 per 50-minute session. Some adjustment in fees is possible in cases of need and when discussed in advance with the counselor.
Client Bill of Rights
As a client of an Oregon licensee, you have the following rights:
*To expect that a licensee has met the minimal qualifications of training and experience required by state law;
*To examine public records maintained by the Board and to have the Board confirm credentials of a licensee.
*To obtain a copy of the Code of Ethics;
*To report complaints to the Executive Board through either of the Co-Director(s) of Salem Pastoral Counseling Center, and/or to report complaints to the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists;
*To be informed of the cost of professional services before receiving the services;
*To participate fully in developing your counseling plan;
*To be assured of privacy and confidentiality while receiving services as defined by rule and law, including the following exceptions: 1) Reporting suspected child abuse; 2) Reporting imminent danger to client or others; 3) Reporting information required in court proceedings or by client’s insurance company, or other relevant agencies; 4) Providing information concerning licensee case consultation or supervision; 5) Defending claims brought by client against licensee;
*To be free from being the object of discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, or other unlawful category while receiving services.
You may contact the Oregon Board at:
Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists
3218 Pringle Road SE #250
Salem, Oregon 97302-6312
(503) 378-5499
Email: lpc.lmft@state.or.us" lpc.lmft@state.or.us
Website: www.oregon.gov/OBLPCT
5/25/2010