YOU ARE NOT ALONE
“If you think you can’t fall into sexual sin, then you’re godlier than David, stronger than Samson, and wiser than Solomon.” - Bill Perkins
At Doug White and Associates, we understand that as a pastor, you fight the same battles as your congregation. You are not immune to behaviors leading to sexual bondage, but also you are not alone in your struggle. We are sensitive to the pressures you endure and responsibilities you carry while leading a church. As a shepherd, you deserve access to the best, safest care possible so that, in turn, you can lead your family and your church with strength and integrity. The professional counselors at Doug White and Associates are ready and eager to help. Sex and pornography addiction thrives in secrecy. Answering the call to the pastorate thrusts you into the public eye which can amplify negative core beliefs related to seeking help with pornography addiction. We are intentionally trained to help you conquer sex and porn addiction and do so from a Biblical worldview.
CHURCH LEADERSHIP AND PORNOGRAPHY
Statistics derived from: Covenant Eyes. 2018. Porn Stats: 250+ facts, quotes, and statistics about pornography use (2018 Edition).
According to a survey by the Barna Group in 2016:
- One out of 5 youth pastors and 1 of 7 senior pastors use porn on a regular basis and are currently struggling. That’s more than 50,000 U.S. church leaders.
- 43% of senior pastors and youth pastors say they have struggled with pornography in the past.
- Only 7% of pastors report their church has a ministry program for those struggling with porn.
In August 2000, Christianity Today conducted an exclusive survey of its readership—both laity and clergy—on the issue of Internet pornography:
- In August 1999, 11% of the calls received on Focus on the Family’s Pastoral Care Line were about pastors and online porn. One year later, in August 2000, online porn worries prompted 20% of the calls.
- 33% of clergy say they have visited a sexually explicit website.
- Of those who have visited sexually explicit websites, 53% say they have visited the sites a few times in the past year; 18% of clergy said they visited explicit websites between “a couple of times a month” and “more than once a week.”
- Among the clergy who use Internet porn, 30% do not talk to anyone about their behavior.
In 2000, a survey of 564 pastors showed:
- 51% of pastors said Internet pornography is a possible temptation.
- 43% of pastors said they had ever visited a pornographic site, 21% doing so “a few times a year” and 6% “a couple times a month or more.”
- 37% of pastors said viewing pornography was a “current struggle.”
- 75% of pastors said they do not make themselves accountable to anyone for their Internet use.
Pastors, Doug White and Associates values you and stands ready, willing and able to walk with you through your personal war against sin and flesh. We can help you master overcoming temptation and discover how God uniquely equipped you for this battle. It would be our honor to serve those called to lead God’s people at such a time as this. To learn more about sex/porn addiction click here.
FAQ about Counseling for Pastors
1. Why would a pastor need counseling?
Pastors carry an immense emotional, spiritual, and relational load. Counseling offers a confidential, nonjudgmental space to process stress, burnout, grief, relationship issues, leadership challenges, and more—without having to “have it all together.”
2. Is it confidential?
Absolutely. Everything shared in counseling is kept strictly confidential within legal and ethical guidelines. You don’t have to worry about your congregation, denomination, or colleagues finding out.
3. Will you understand the unique pressures of ministry?
Yes. Our practice specializes in working with clergy and church leaders. We understand the weight of sermon prep, member care, board dynamics, and the often invisible emotional labor of shepherding others.
4. Do I have to be in crisis to seek counseling?
Not at all. Many pastors come to counseling for preventative care, leadership growth, or to process transitions. You don’t have to wait until you’re falling apart to ask for support.
5. Can I receive counseling if I live outside your city/state?
Depending on licensure and location, we may be able to offer telehealth counseling if you're located within a state we serve. Reach out directly to discuss options for your location.
6. What issues do you help pastors work through?
Some common themes include burnout, anxiety, imposter syndrome, spiritual fatigue, marital stress, church conflict, isolation, and navigating personal faith questions.
7. Will counseling interfere with my theology or beliefs?
We respect and honor your faith journey. Our goal is not to change your theology, but to walk alongside you in a way that integrates emotional and spiritual well-being.
8. What’s the first step to get started?
Reach out via the contact form or book a free consultation to explore whether this is the right fit. We’ll discuss your needs, answer your questions, and map out next steps together.
9. Do you offer intensives or retreats for pastors?
Yes, we offer options for both ongoing counseling and customized intensives for deeper work. These can be especially helpful for sabbaticals or seasons of transition.
10. What if I’m afraid of appearing weak or unfaithful by asking for help?
Seeking support is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of wisdom. Pastors give so much to others; you deserve a space where you don’t have to lead, fix, or perform..