Welcome to Core Essentials for Counseling & Wellness
Welcome to Core Essentials for Counseling & Wellness   

Shepard's Circle

You pour into others.

Who pours into you?

 

Ministry is a calling, but it is also a weight that is often carried in silence.

Pastors, women in ministry, first families, and preacher’s kids are expected to be strong, available, and spiritually grounded while navigating emotional, relational, and identity challenges behind the scenes.

 

As a minister and a preacher’s kid raised in both Black church and Pentecostal traditions, I understand these dynamics firsthand. Shepherd’s Circle is a space where you can step out of your role and be fully human. You do not have to perform, explain church culture, or minimize your experience. Here, you are invited to be honest without fear of judgment, to be seen without being reduced to a role, and to be heard without your experiences being dismissed or spiritualized away.

 

This is a place where your voice matters, your experiences are honored, and your humanity is held with care. You are allowed to be human and still be called. 

 

Confidential, culturally grounded support for pastors, women in ministry, first families, and preacher’s kids.

 

 

 

Therapy

For those experiencing emotional distress, burnout, trauma, or mental health concerns.

We can help with:

  • Burnout and emotional exhaustion
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Trauma and church-related experiences
  • Women in ministry stress
  • Preacher’s kid identity and family dynamics
  • Relationship and family concerns

Investment: $150 - $250 per session

Coaching

For those who want support, clarity, and direction without entering therapy.

Coaching can help with:

  • Leadership clarity
  • Boundaries in ministry
  • Decision-making
  • Identity outside of your role
  • Navigating pressure and expectations

Investment: $150 - $300 per session

Signature Groups

Women Who Carry

Support for women in ministry navigating leadership, pressure, and emotional responsibility.


First Lady Circle

A space for ministry spouses to explore identity, relationships, and expectations.


PK Safe Space

Support for preacher’s kids navigating identity, pressure, and life in ministry families.


Group Investment: $75 - $125 per session

Ministry-Informed Team

 

Dr. Lasheka D. Chappell, LPA, HSP-PA
Minister, Preacher’s Kid

Specializes in supporting pastors, women in ministry, first families, and preacher’s kids.


Selma Smith, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS
Minister, Preacher’s Kid

Supports identity, emotional wellness, and ministry-related experiences.


Dr. Ayanna Peake (Coaching & Consultations)
Doctoral-Level Clinical Psychology Training
Ministry Leader

Supports leaders navigating stress, purpose, and emotional wellness.

You do not have to carry this alone.

?? Schedule your confidential consultation today

 

Looking for support for your church or leadership team?
Visit our Faith Communities Consulting page

Corporate Address:

8501 Tower Pointe Drive Ste B3

Charlotte, NC 28227 

 Telephone: 877 589-3969 

Fax: 1+ 877 786.5369

Email: info@coreessentialsnc.org


Start Here

All appointments and consultations are scheduled through our secure Client Portal


Payment & Insurance

Insurance participation is anticipated beginning April 2026, pending credentialing and contracting.

Until credentialing is complete, services are offered on a private pay basis. Superbills may be available for out-of-network reimbursement when applicable.


Important Information

  • Sliding scale does not apply to psychological evaluations

  • Evaluations require multiple clinical hours beyond direct client contact

  • Consulting and coaching services are non-clinical

 

Crisis Support:

(Active Clients Only)
Call 877-589-3969
Select Option 3

If you are experiencing a life threatning or health emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline


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© Core Essentials for Counseling & Wellness is a DBA of Core Essentials, LLC and Core Essentials for Wellness and Behavioral Health, PLLC. Clinical services are billed through Core Essentials, LLC. Privacy Policy | Terms of Use