A View From the Front Desk
jo Crosby
Having spent hours at the office, I thought a fresh set of eyes might describe a fresh perspective. Rachael H. has been our administrative assistant for less than two months; therefore, I asked if she would write a blog on our office. I hope you both enjoy and learn from her words; May they help paint a picture of our vision for Five Stones. Blessings, Jo.
The Five Stones staff and office atmosphere are both amazing. It seems God knew exactly what He was doing when He opened the door for me to start part-time as the Administrative Assistant at Five Stones a little over a month ago. It has been a blessing in so many ways; it’s especially great to have a job I look forward to.
Coffee Shop Meets Confidential Setting
Five Stones truly is a “coffee shop meets confidential setting.” Each day as clients come to the office I greet them and offer them a coffee, soda, water or juice. This summer I’m serving iced-coffee, fruit-infused water, smoothies and soda-floats. The coffee-ice-cubes are ready and the ice-cream is in the freezer, so no need to stop by Starbucks before you head to your Five Stones appointment.
Ironically, my very first high-school job was at a coffee shop. When Rachel Wood (whom I now refer to as RW, to eliminate confusion between the Rach[a]els) found out I could make an authentic cappuccino, she promised to bring in her espresso machine one of these days! I enjoy serving, so please let me know what kind of drink you’d like.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is a number one value at Five Stones. Client files, schedule books, and phone message logs are kept locked away at all times. Counselors always maintain respect for their clients’ privacy. Even in cases where a church or relative pays for a client’s counseling sessions, counselors obtain a confidentiality waiver from the client in order to share invoice information with the payer. Every aspect of ethical confidentiality is adhered to at Five Stones. It’s a place where many professionals are comfortable referring their clients who needed counseling. Multiple doctors, pastors and other professionals refer clients to Five Stones on a regular basis.
Little Things that Make a Big Difference
Just as “little foxes” can “spoil a vine” (Song of Solomon 2:15), small positive touches make the difference in the Five Stones office atmosphere. From chocolates and mints found in each room, to classical music playing in the lobby, to rolled towel hand-cloths in the bathroom, to the smile on each counselor’s face—Five Stones is full of charm and small comforts.
Christ-Centered Relationships
It’s obvious to me why John and Jo chose Christ-Centered Relationship Counseling as their focus—it’s because their relationships are Christ-Centered. It’s not just a professional tag-line; it’s the way they live. John and Jo invite the Lord into every staff meeting; they begin with prayer and offer to pray for staff members’ requests. They daily exemplify their faith as they demonstrate what it means to be a professional Christian counselor. Five Stones counselors always behave unselfishly and with courtesy—whether they are speaking to me as the administrative assistant, or interacting with clients.
Contact Five Stones
Everyone experiences challenges in relationships and needs someone to help them navigate the rough waters of life. As Christ is the light, Five Stones is a lighthouse and a beacon of hope where many people find refuge and direction. Make an appointment with a Five Stones counselor today. Call us at 912.667.5848, or email me at rhartman@fivestones.org. I’m happy to give you information on Five Stones or schedule your appointment. We are looking forward to serving you.
Rachael H.