​The Pastoral Counseling Center of Flushing (PCC) was founded in Flushing, New York, in 1981 by D. Ellen Van Etten, LMHC, and Pastor Jorge M. Prado as a church counseling ministry of First Baptist Church of Flushing. From its beginning, PCC was established with a vision to provide compassionate, professionally informed counseling grounded in Christian faith and biblical principles.

In 1985, PCC was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under the United States Internal Revenue Code, allowing the ministry to expand its reach and serve individuals and families throughout the community.

In the early 2000s, PCC opened its dedicated counseling office in Flushing, further establishing its presence and commitment to the local community. Throughout its history, PCC has remained committed to the belief that financial limitations should not prevent individuals and families from receiving the counseling and support they need.

For more than four decades, Ellen Van Etten faithfully served and led PCC from its founding, leaving an enduring legacy of compassion, faith, and service. Through her leadership and dedication, God used PCC to positively impact countless individuals, families, churches, and communities.

The history of PCC would not be complete without recognizing the faithful support of our board members, donors, volunteers, churches, community partners, counselors, and friends. Their generosity and commitment have helped sustain this ministry and enabled PCC to continue its mission.

Today, PCC carries this legacy forward under the leadership of Mirna Herbert, LCSW/Psychotherapist, who has served as Executive Director since July 2025. Building upon the foundation established by those who came before, PCC remains committed to providing Gospel-centered and compassionate counseling.

We are a multidisciplinary team of experienced counselors from diverse ethnic, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds and share a deep commitment to serving others with grace, dignity, and respect. Through biblically based counseling, PCC seeks to make quality Christian counseling accessible to individuals and families.

For 45 years, PCC has been helping people find hope, healing, and restoration.