Christian Counseling Certificate Online Program

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Overview

Help Others Approach Mental Health With a Christ-Centered Focus

The online Graduate Certificate in Christian Counseling program at Grand Canyon University offers an introduction to counseling theory within a Christian worldview. You will examine personal spiritual formation and character development, and you will be guided to apply biblical principles to counseling topics, such as forgiveness, self-assessment and reconciliation with God.

This certificate in Christian counseling online is designed to teach you counseling theories from a Christian perspective, which can help you decide if you wish to pursue a master’s degree in counseling and, afterward, state licensure. Alternatively, this Christian counseling certificate may enable you to pursue non-licensure positions, where you can work to create meaningful change for others.

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Why GCU

Earn a Certificate in Christian Counseling Online From GCU

The Christian counseling certificate program at GCU could be a great path if you want to help others and, potentially, move forward to earn a master’s in counseling. This online certificate program integrates the Christian worldview and the Bible into counseling field concepts. It teaches the boundaries and limitations for counselors, counseling theories, and the relationship between biblical concepts and healthy relationships.

This program is offered fully online so you can build your knowledge in Christian counseling skills on a more flexible schedule. Take courses through an interactive learning platform and have access to your instructors and peers throughout the program.

Coursework

Certificate in Christian Counseling Course Topics

The Christian counseling certificate online consists of four courses that address the integration of counseling theory, Christian worldview, the study of spiritual formation and more.

These courses cover topics such as:

A Narrative Approach to Theology

Look at applications of biblical principles to the life and practice of Christian counselors

Spiritual Formation and Stages of Growth

Includes personal faith development and character development for counselors

Safe Practice Implementation

Implement practices personally and professionally as they pertain to relational health

Christian Worldview Integration

Incorporate Christian worldview into counseling theory and practice, with an emphasis on the nature and purpose of human beings from a biblical perspective and ethical issues pertinent to the Christian counselor

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Skills Taught in This Certificate Program

You will take courses that integrate a Christ-centered approach to overcoming emotional and behavioral health difficulties.

During these courses, you will be taught to:

  • Assess major counseling theories in light of a Christian worldview
  • Establish a biblical and theological foundation as it informs counseling practice
  • Evaluate ethical issues in counseling from a Christian perspective
  • Incorporate a Christian approach to spiritual growth and emotional health for life and practice
  • Integrate a Christ-centered approach into the implementation of counseling therapies
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Careers

Careers Paths For Christian Counseling Certificate Holders

This Christian counseling certificate online is designed for students who want to help people but are unsure whether they want to earn their master’s degree and pursue licensure as a counselor. No program of study can guarantee any particular career outcome, and the requirements to become a counselor can vary from state to state. However, after graduating with your certificate in Christian counseling, you may choose to pursue the following types of work:

  • Providing personal coaching support within church settings
  • Delivering peer support services
  • Helping others as a behavioral health specialist
Accreditation

GCU Proudly Offers Institutionally Accredited Certificate Programs

Before making an enrollment decision, it’s important to check whether the school you’re considering is institutionally accredited. GCU is an institutionally accredited university that emphasizes quality of instruction.

FAQ

Certificate in Christian Counseling Online Program FAQs

The decision to further your education is not an insignificant one. Take the time to research your intended career path before making an enrollment decision regarding a Christian counseling certificate program. The following frequently asked questions and answers can help you get started.

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Pursue Your Passion for Helping Others

Prepare to pursue work that helps others and glorifies God with a certificate in Christian counseling. Apply today for enrollment in GCU’s online program.

Apply Now
  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, Oct. 24). How to Become a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, or Mental Health Counselor. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Sept. 1, 2023.
  2. Grey, S. (2023, May 31). How to Become a Christian Counselor: Skills and Requirements. Forbes. Retrieved Sept. 1, 2023.

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