Pathways Counseling Center is committed to creating conditions for God to work in the midst of human brokenness. The counseling process is one tool that God may use to bring about change, healing and restoration.
While counseling occurs in a safe, confidential environment, we also presume that movement toward wholeness takes place in the larger context of a supportive community. We believe that an individual’s physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual lives are intimately connected. Therefore, we give attention to these areas by assessing health habits, biological factors, medication, spiritual beliefs, social support, etc.
Who would seek help at Pathways?
Many people who find help at Pathways have struggled with personal and emotional difficulties that they haven’t been able to resolve on their own. During times of acute personal crisis, individuals, couples and families can turn to Pathways Counseling Center.
How do I begin with Pathways?
For more information about the counseling center or to make an appointment, please call 614.818.4099 or pathways@heritagecc.org. The first session will help determine the next appropriate step.
What can I expect from Pathways?
• Help based on individual needs - Each person will be connected to a professional counselor, support group, mentor, Heritage ministry and/or an outside referral source.
• A safe place – Seeking help is not an easy decision. Every effort is made to protect your confidentiality and provide a warm and supportive environment.
Does Pathways accept insurance?
Pathways is a fee-based, professional counseling service. While our counselors are in-network with some insurance carriers, it is wise to contact your insurance provider to determine your coverage. As a courtesy to our clients, we submit insurance claims for you. In the event that you do not possess insurance or have limited coverage, our counselors will make every effort to accomodate your financial situation.
Situations where Pathways can help:
• Depression
• Anxiety, fear and panic
• Marital problems
• Career and work-related pressures
• Loss and grief
• Physical, sexual and emotional abuse
• Co-dependency
• Addictions
• Low self-esteem
• Dysfunctional relationships
• Life transitions and crises
• Divorce recovery
• Obsessive-compulsive disorders
• Children and adolescent issues
• Parenting concerns
• ….and more
Our Staff:
Joel Wharton, MA, PCC
Joel is the Director of Pathways and joined the staff of Heritage in September 2006, after establishing a successful private practice at Cornerstone Family Counseling in Columbus, Ohio.
Prior to his counseling career, Joel served the needs of abused children and teens as an advocate and Children’s Services caseworker in Ohio and Florida. Currently, Joel works with adolescents (15-17), adult individuals and couples to address a variety of mental health and relational concerns. Joel is a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with degrees from Miami University and Asbury Theological Seminary.
Joel and his wife Kari have been married 11 years. They have three children ages 6, 3, and 2.
Eric Wharton, MA, PCC
Eric joined the pastoral team in February 2004 as HCC’s Family Life Pastor. His work in that role established a spectrum of ministries to marriages as well as to individuals.
Prior to coming to Heritage, Eric was the Director of Cornerstone Family Counseling in Worthington. He holds a Graduate degree in Pastoral Counseling and Psychology from Ashland University and has served as an educator, pastor and therapist. His transition back into full time counseling became effective June 1, 2008 when he joined his son, Joel, at Pathways. Eric’s heart for couples, families and individuals comes out of his own faith journey and the healing that Christ has brought to him and his marriage.
Eric and his wife Sylvia have been married 41 years. They have two adult children and five grandchildren.
Maggie Herrman, MA, PCC, LCDCIII
Maggie is the newest member of Pathways Counseling, having recently joined us from The Buckeye Ranch where she worked with children, adolescents and families with behavioral and mental health challenges. Before The Buckeye Ranch, she spent a year at Amethyst, Inc., a substance abuse recovery treatment center for females.
Maggie graduated from The University of Tulsa and Ashland Theological Seminary and is a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. She does individual, family and group counseling for children and adults addressing a variety of issues.
Chad Wilt, MA, PCC,
Chad Wilt recently joined Pathways Counseling after graduating from Ashland Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts in Clinical Pastoral Counseling. Chad served as an intern at Wellspring where he worked with adult individuals, adolescents and married couples. Chad is a licensed Professional Counselor. Chad works with adolescents, adult individuals and couples coming alongside them as they overcome relational and mental health issues.
In addition to Ashland Theological Seminary Chad also graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Music Education.
Chad and his wife Melanie of 13 years have three children ages 11, 9, and 6.
Additional Information:
Pathways Counseling Center is located on the second floor of Heritage Christian Church, 7413 Maxtown Road, Westervile, OH 43082. You can reach us by calling 614.818.4099 or pathways@heritagecc.org.
When you arrive for an appointment, please enter through the Main Entrance at Heritage Christian Church. You will be asked to check-in at the Welcome Desk and wear a generic Heritage nametag; however, in order to preserve your confidentiality you will not be required to sign-in. Please inform the Welcome Desk staff member that you have a meeting in Room 241 (Pathways office number). You will be directed upstairs. Thank you for allowing us to create a more welcoming and safe environment at Pathways Counseling Center & Heritage Christian Church.
Inclement Weather Policy
Pathways will close whenever a Level II snow emergency is in effect for Delaware County. Appointments will be cancelled as soon as this emergency is declared. If you are unsure, please call 818-4099 before you arrive for your appointment.