What is ELCN? Simply put, it is a community of counselors and counselor training organizations to encourage and learn from one another. I really enjoy the times we can get together at an annual convention, but that is only once a year. And it can be a bit pricey to travel. Why not communicate year-round and meet up live a little more often? Well, that's the goal!

I know we have Facebook and other social platforms, but sometimes the platform algorithms dictate what we can or can not "see' on our feed, and sometimes they just block you. I'm not a big fan of that.

It's true we all use social media since billions of others are on the platform. It's a great way to share information. That's perfectly fine. I just don't want to be under the control of a platform that might tell me what I can or can not post.

Our platform was built with privacy. There is no algorithm. It's just us. And if you are a Network 220 member or affiliated with a Network 220 member, we want you to join us! Just click the JOIN button and create your profile. An admin will review your "request to join" and then approve (often the same day or next day).

Let's build this community together!

Welcome to the Exchanged Life Counseling Network. A community designed for Network 220 members focused on Exchanged Life counseling. Take a moment and post an introduction of yourself and your ministry. We want to hear from YOU! And let us know in the "poll" on the other post if you are attending the Network 220 convention!

Michelle and I will be at the 2026 Convention in Dallas, TX and we hope to see you there! Find out more at https://network220.org/home

Take the poll: Are you attending the convention this year?

My friend Chalmer Naugle sent me this statistic (he saw it on a blog from Levi Lusko).

Today, 46% of Americans say they feel lonely. It's hit men particularly hard—the percentage of men with at least six close friends has fallen from 55% to just 27% since 1990. Even more alarming, the number of men with no close friends at all has jumped from 3% to 15%.

Ironically, when you're lonely, you tend to do the exact opposite of what would cure it. The people who are most lonely withdraw from the very situations that would bring friendships into their lives.

Counselors, mentors, caregivers, and others in Christian ministry are not exempt from this epidemic. I hope this online group can be one source of encouragement and foster friendships.