ABOUT
Education
Marla Decubellis holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Liberty University and a Master's Degree in Biblical Counseling from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Experience
I served in a church environment as the Director of Children's Ministry for four years before moving to Guatemala where I lived for three years as a missionary with the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention. Upon return I attended seminary and earned my Biblical Counseling degree and upon graduation I worked as a staff counselor at the House of Hope, a group home for troubled teens in Clayton, NC. I married and moved to Wilmington, NC where I worked on staff for nine years at Port City Community Church. Here I served as the Biblical Counseling Coordinator where I counseled, developed and led a lay counseling training program, and mentored lay counselors. I have also worked as a biblical counselor with Foundations Christian Counseling in Pennsylvania and Hope Counseling Chapel Hill, NC.
Specialization
I have counseled many issues, however I specialize in relationship issues, identity, emotions, anxiety, grief and loss. I have a heart for those serving on the mission field, as well.
Affiliations and
Statement of Faith
I align most naturally in beliefs and practice with the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF) beliefs and Model of Care, however, I am happy to meet with people from a variety of theological perspectives.
Endorsements
"I had the privilege of working with Marla in a counseling setting from 2007-2010; her exceptional and compassionate counseling skills were witnessed during our time together. Her deep commitment to Christ has been a constant source of guidance and support in my life as our professional relationship deepened into a strong friendship. Her heartfelt desire to see individuals grow closer to the Lord is evident; she is truly an invaluable counselor and spiritual mentor."
Whitney Johnson, LCMHC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Raleigh, NC
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"I have known Marla for nearly 20 years - much of that time as her pastor - all of that time as a friend. I am happy to commend her as a counselor who will bring both the compassion and wisdom of Christ to those she counsels. Marla has solid training, rich experience and a truly authentic faith in Christ. I trust her. You can, too."
Larry Trotter
Pastor of Shepherding and Spiritual Formation at North Wake Church, Wake Forest, NC
"Choosing the right counselor is a big deal, so choose wisely. I have known Marla for about 20 years and seen her positive, Christ-centered impact on many. If you are seeking a counselor that is wise, skilled, careful, compassionate, and effective Marla is one of the best choices you could make. Most highly recommended."
Sam Williams, PhD.
Professor of Biblical Counseling at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, NC.
It is with great confidence that I recommend Marla as a counselor. I'm so grateful for her time on our church staff and the Christ-centered care she provided. She has a heart to help and serve others, while also having the Biblical knowledge, as well as the professional clinical and therapeutic skills, to come alongside those who are in a season of struggle.
Mike Ashcraft, Pastor and Author
Lead Pastor at Port City Community Church, Wilmington, NC
A Little More
About Me
I was born and raised in the western part of North Carolina, but have lived all over the state. My wonderful husband and I have three beautiful adult daughters and two fur babies. I love being outside anywhere in nature especially at the beach or the mountains. I am a mountain girl at heart! My husband loves the beach! I love being active.. hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding. I also love being creative. I do photography, fiber arts and recently have started quilting! I love reading, food, traveling, watching football and college basketball and spending time with family and friends. Jesus more than anything!
