Formerly The Gate Church, the Refresh Family Center was born from the dream of two University City churches—The Gate and The Journey Hanley Road—who merged to form Refresh Community Church. Together, they envisioned creating a church that would serve all of University City. While Refresh’s primary worship space is located in the former Journey Hanley Road building, across from UCity High School, the former Gate Church building was maintained with a special purpose in mind: to be a dedicated space serving the unique needs of the 3rd Ward community.
The Refresh Family Center is currently a work in progress. Divided into two primary spaces, the newly renovated "house" side will open in Fall 2024 as a counseling center, offering a variety of therapeutic services. These include professional counseling and other services provided by Karis House Network , who are committed to serving individuals and families in University City and the surrounding areas. Through direct referrals from University City school leaders, as well as available scholarships, these services are made accessible to those in need.
Counseling
Professional counseling services are offered for kids, teens, adults and couples. All counselors share a common set of beliefs about counseling.
Start Counseling Intake FormCoaching
Coaching is different from professional counseling as it is often centered around current goals or transitions. It tends to be shorter term, and is not about processing trauma or making sense of identity.
It is about having a qualified coach to walk with you for a time as you navigate a transition, or work to make a specific decision. Coaching is offered on a sliding scale basis.
Start Coaching Intake FormGroups
We offer groups as we have enough participants. If you are interested in a group, register via intake and we will launch a group when we have enough participants.
Youth events
Phase 2 of the renovation will focus on the church side of the Refresh Family Center. In the meantime, this space is already being put to good use, hosting programs and events for University City's middle and high school students. Led by Arcullous “JB” Heard and Mark “Gully” Gullet, students come together to have fun, share meals, and explore how Gospel principles can be applied to their everyday lives.
For more information on these opportunities, email markgullet@refreshcommunity.church.
Our Network Counselors
Amy Mattia
Caridad Baez
Grenisha Parker Adams
Jessica Bryant
Jason Thompson
