Member Spotlight July/August

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT DR. ZARITA  MADDOX, International Representative

Celebrating Eight Years of Impact:

A Journey of Faith and Counseling

As we embark on a new school year, God’s Word First School of Christian Counseling proudly marks eight years as an International Representative. From Willingboro, New Jersey, to Punta Gorda, Florida, our journey has been nothing short of glorious. God has richly blessed us with students from both New Jersey and Florida, allowing us to fulfill the dreams and aspirations of individuals from diverse backgrounds and all ages.

Each new student brings a wave of excitement, eager to delve into counseling because they sense a divine call to this ministry. Yet, we’ve observed that this eagerness is often accompanied by fear. Some students, having a only a high school diploma and many years out of school, worry about meeting academic demands, while others question their ability to retain information and perform well on tests due to their age.

Thankfully, we can reassure them with the promise that they can "Do all things through Christ who strengthens them." We are here to support and guide them through every step of their educational journey. We also share the success stories of past students who faced similar concerns but thrived in our program.

The cornerstone of our curriculum is Creation Therapy, which all new students take. This foundational course introduces them to the theory of temperament. Upon completion, students can decide whether to continue their studies and pursue a counseling certificate, license, or degree.

Many students who complete Creation Therapy choose to advance further, ultimately earning their Bachelor's, Master's, or even Doctoral degrees. Our program's success is a testament to their hard work and dedication.

God's Word First School of Christian Counseling has also partnered with The Kingdom Center for H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Excel), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This faith-based initiative uses Kingdom principles to enrich lives within our community and beyond. Their flagship program, Dream Chasers and Dream Makers, mentors girls aged 10 and up. One of our students is currently using the APS to help these young girls understand their divine creation. We believe this initiative offers invaluable insights into their identity and potential, guiding them toward a fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

We recognize that young people face numerous challenges in school, at home, and in their communities, which can lead to confusion about their identity and capabilities. By understanding their temperament, they can gain the balance and confidence needed to stand firm on God's principles and live a productive, fulfilling life.

Our partnership with The Kingdom Center for H.O.P.E. extends to the “No Turning Back” Women’s Re-entry Program, which supports women transitioning from prison. The mission is to encourage, support, and train these women for success as they embrace their greater purpose outside of prison.

Inspired by one of our Master-level students, who expressed a desire to assist women with limited support upon their release, we began collaborating with individuals who have either worked in the prison system or dedicated their lives to helping former inmates. God has opened doors for us to offer classes and engage with inmates directly.

We are thrilled to introduce the APS and the “Created in God’s Image” course, along with “Transition Training,” designed to provide keys to a successful reintegration into society. Combining these tools with the wisdom of the Holy Spirit and the anointing to serve creates a powerful foundation for success.

Our initial vision for God’s Word First School of Christian Counseling was to train individuals interested in Christian counseling ministry, equipping them with the necessary credentials to serve their churches and communities with excellence. Although the journey has been challenging, the insight from Dr. Richard Arno’s Basic Christian Counseling course has reinforced the understanding that Christian counseling is a calling. This realization has helped us focus on attracting students who are genuinely called to this ministry, rather than being discouraged by those who may not share the same commitment.

Serving God and His people as an International Representative is a profound honor and blessing. As new opportunities arise, we trust in God’s guidance and the Holy Spirit’s leading to continue His work through us.

We look forward to continuing this journey, supporting students and communities, and witnessing the transformative power of faith and counseling.