Advent is partnering with Life Christian Counseling Network to provide counseling to our members. A spiritual director also partners with Advent, creating intentional space for conversation, prayer, and reflection. Advent members receive a discounted rate.
COUNSELING
Advent is partnering with Life Christian Counseling Network (LCCN) to provide counseling. To schedule a session with Laura Alm, Peter Buckingham, or any other LCCN counselor, please call Life directly at 301-292-2778 or fill out this form on Life's website. Advent members will receive a discounted rate; please be sure to mention that you attend Church of the Advent during the intake process.
laura alm, MA, LGPC, resident in counseling—va, ca, ncc
Laura holds a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University and is licensed to work with clients in Maryland and Virginia. She received her undergraduate degree in Theology from Christendom College and worked as a middle school teacher before answering God’s call to serve others as a counselor. In addition to her experience at LCCN, Laura worked as a staffer for the U.S. Department of Defense Safe Helpline, a 24/7 hotline managed by the DoD Sexual Assault and Prevention Response Office and RAINN, the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, where she provided crisis support for survivors of sexual assault and abuse. To read more about Laura, click here.
Please note that LCCN counselors are not employed by Church of the Advent.
Peter Buckingham, MA, LGPC, Resident in Counseling-VA, NCC
Peter earned his Master’s in Counseling from the John Townsend Institute at Concordia University Irvine and chose this program because of its emphasis on attachment in relationship, which he believes is an essential element in healing change for individuals. Peter seeks to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment for each client as they begin to walk together through his or her healing journey. He is licensed to work with clients in DC, Maryland and Virginia.
Local to the DMV, Peter grew up in Southern Maryland but has lived in Maryland, Washington, DC, and now resides in Alexandria with his family. Peter is an avid reader who enjoys finding new culinary challenges to conquer and traveling whenever possible.
Please note that LCCN counselors are not employed by Church of the Advent.
SPIRITUAL DIRECTION
Spiritual Direction is an ancient Christian tradition of religious mentorship first practiced in monasteries and religious orders. More recently, Protestant circles have recognized the distinctive benefits of this contemplative practice. Spiritual direction creates intentional space for conversation, prayer, and reflection; the goal is to discern the movement of God, to act on the discernment, and to walk closer to Jesus Christ. It is a safe place to bring the mess of life to light before our gracious God.
Meriwether Zeager offers spiritual direction for individuals (women only) or groups (co-ed). Email her at meriwetheranderson@gmail.com to set up an appointment. Advent members will receive a discounted rate; please be sure to mention that you attend Church of the Advent.
MERIWETHER ZEAGER
Meriwether graduated from Leadership Transformations in association with Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary with a certificate in Spiritual Direction. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. To read more about Meriwether, click here.
Please note that spiritual directors are not employed by Church of the Advent.