Are you a Christian who enjoys helping others work through difficult situations? Do you get joy out of counseling someone during a tough time or feel purpose in trying to understand someone else’s thoughts or emotions? By combing the two, you may find that a career in Christian Counseling may be right for you.
These are characteristics found in the psychology field. If you resonate with these examples, perhaps a career in psychology would be a good fit for you!
If you are interested in pursuing an education as a faith-based counselor, we will lay out some basic information about the duties of a Christian counselor or psychologist as well as some information about online Christian counseling programs you might consider.
Curious if you would make a good Christian counselor? Let’s find out!
What is Christian Counseling?
Christian counseling is, in many ways, the same as regular counseling, but it is from a biblical and spiritual worldview. In essence, it is Christian psychology. These counselors use psychology principles and scripture as a way to console and tend to people emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
What are the Duties of a Christian Counselor?
Christian psychologists use this therapeutic approach to help people struggling with all types of hardships. These might include:
- The death of a loved one
- Divorce
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Marital problems
- Addiction
- Trauma
- Abuse
- Financial trouble
- Relationship issues
- Faith
With the help of a faith-based counselor, anyone can receive professional, psychological help paired with the teachings and guidance found in the Bible.
To become a counselor, you must obtain the certification qualifying you to practice counseling and/or psychology. You must have a master’s degree or Ph.D. in psychology, counseling, or another mental health program to be a licensed counselor.
Is Christian Counseling a Good Career Choice for You?
Every career takes work, but to be successful, you will need a passion and zeal to do the job. While some jobs don’t necessarily require having a passion for the work, psychology is one that certainly does.
Before you consider a career in this pathway, you should be sure that you are willing to not only earn a degree but to also put your heart into the job every day.
As a Christian counselor, you will need to be devoted, caring, attentive, open-minded, as well as stable. You must also be able to listen to a patient without being judgmental, you should be committed to helping their cause, and guide them emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
In some cases, you might get tired of always helping others through trials, so it’s important that you know before going into this career that you will be required to give much of yourself to the profession. Many will look to you for support, comfort, and guidance so you should really want to help people day in and out.
Though not easy, it is a rewarding and fulfilling career for anyone who desires to help people. If you believe that counseling is for you, consider speaking with a career counselor or someone in the profession to get a glimpse into the everyday life of these counselors.
How to Become a Christian Counselor
To be a certified licensed counselor, you will need to acquire a master’s degree or Ph.D. in the field, although, on rare occasions, you might be able to practice under a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Bear in mind that with a Master’s Degree in Counseling, you will receive higher education and it will be more attractive on a resume.
One of the best ways to discover Christian counseling careers is to research online Christian counseling programs. This will give you a better understanding of the curriculum and structure of psychology courses and help you choose the program that is right for you.
Conclusion
If you are interested in helping people with their mental health and spiritual fulfillment, then pursuing a career as a Christian counselor might be a perfect job for you.
Online Christian Counseling Schools
Additionally, you may consider looking at the online Christian Counseling programs we’ve listed above to help kickstart your search. Your dream career is waiting!
Online Christian Counseling Programs – Bachelor’s
- Liberty University — Bachelor of Science in Psychology: Christian Counseling
- Oral Roberts University — Bachelor’s in Christian Caregiving and Counseling
- The Baptist College of Florida — Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- The King’s University — Bachelor of Biblical Counseling
Online Christian Counseling Programs – Master’s