Things You'll Need:
- Degree
- Transcript
- Documentation of state license
- At least 60 hours of approved training in biblical counseling concepts
- $200
- Application
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Step 1
Determine whether, as a professional or pastoral counselor, you are already eligible to become a certified Christian counselor. If you hold a master's or doctoral degree and are a licensed counselor in your state, you can apply to become a board certified professional Christian counselor through the International Board of Christian Counselors. An ordained pastor who has at least a bachelor's degree can apply to become a board certified pastoral counselor. Before licensed counselors or pastors qualify, however, they must complete 60 hours of approved training to incorporate biblical principles within their clinical practices.
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Step 2
Decide whether you would enhance your ministry credentials by becoming a certified Christian counselor, even if you are not a licensed or ordained professional. The IBCC provides certification for individuals who hold master's degrees and doctorates and work as professors, lawyers, doctors and psychological examiners. Lay ministers with or without college degrees who have completed approved training in Christian counseling are also eligible to receive certification, as biblical counselors. Similar to professional and pastoral counselors, these individuals must obtain either 90 or 150 hours of approved training before they are ready to be certified by the IBCC. Another organization that certifies counselors who consider their work more ministry than business is the National Christian Counselors Association.
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Step 3
Enroll in an approved counselor training program if you are just beginning the process of becoming a certified Christian counselor. Stephen Ministries, a nationally known, highly regarded organization, offers a lay counselor's training course that is approved by the IBCC, for example. Various Christian colleges and theological seminaries prepare students to enter professional counseling careers such as licensed social worker, marriage and family therapist, psychologist and mental health counselor. The faculty advisers and career counselors at these schools are equipped to guide their students along the path to licensure and certification.
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Step 4
Download the application for the type of certification for which you qualify from the International Board of Christian Counselors website at ibcc.aacc.net. Fill it out. Attach the various copies of your transcripts, ordination certificates and the documents that provide verification of the continuing education hours you have completed. Include the $200 fee and submit the application packet to the designated address. Your certification as a Christian counselor will be valid for two years. To maintain it, you must complete the specified number of continuing education units and pay a reduced fee every two years.
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Step 5
Add the initials that signify your certification to your business card, resume and signature. It adds value to your professional credentials and will attract Christian clients to your practice.
