Christian counseling programs are geared towards providing students with skills and knowledge that helps them work with children, adults, people with disabilities and offer them counseling services and rehabilitation support. Both traditional and online school offer programs in this area of study. A degree in Christian counseling can help students become mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists. Jobs for these professions are expected to grow much faster than the average of all occupations between 2010 and 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Working towards Christian counseling programs can be a good choice for those who want to make a difference in the lives of others or those who want to do work that is self-fulfilling.
Christian Counseling Programs
Degrees and certificate programs are available in Christian Counseling. Students can work toward the bachelor’s or master’s programs and learn about the teachings of the Bible and how to use them to help people having different problems. Combining psychology and counseling theories with Christian morals, these programs help students acquire a variety of skills to help people through Christian teachings. Some Christian counseling programs also include case studies. Students may also have to complete clinical practicum and get hands-on experience in the field.
The Certificate in Christian Counseling programs can be useful for counselors who are already working and want to improve their career prospects. These programs may require 6 months to 1 year to complete. The exact duration of the programs depends on the enrollment status of the student.
Christian counselors also require a certification or license. The requirements for license may vary with state where they wish to work. Generally, candidates are required to hold a master's degree and have related experience.
Coursework
A variety of courses are covered in the Christian counseling programs. Students can take courses in the Old and New Testaments, Biblical crisis counseling, marriage and family counseling and addiction counseling. Classes are also available in Christian counseling and cultural diversity and counseling with biblical principles for grief, loss and trauma.
Online Christian Counseling Programs
In addition to traditional schools, some online institutes also offer programs in Christian counseling. These programs can be suitable for those who want to keep up with their personal or professional routine as well as students with physical disabilities. Stay-at-home parents can also participate in the online Christian counseling programs as they do not have to attend classes in person and instead study from the comfort of their homes.
Admissions Requirements
To pursue a degree in counseling, students need to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. They may also have to submit ACT or SAT scores. Other admissions’ factors may vary by school or program type.
Career Prospects
Counselors with expertise in Christian counseling can find jobs in several settings including churches, colleges or Christian schools, private or group practice. Some of them also offer one-on-one sessions while offer online counseling or telephone counseling. In addition, Christian counselors can also serve as motivational speakers. According to BLS, the median annual wage of mental health counselors was $38,150 in 2010.