GCPC - Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Counseling

The Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Counseling provides focused, graduate-level training in counseling from a biblical and theological perspective. The program is designed for individuals engaged in ministry, as well as those preparing for ministry, who desire to develop foundational counseling skills for use in church and ministry contexts. The program integrates biblical understanding, theological reflection, and counseling principles to equip students to provide wise, compassionate, and effective care. Students are prepared to offer supportive, non-licensed pastoral counseling in ministry settings, addressing issues such as grief, conflict, trauma, substance use concerns, and spiritual distress, while recognizing when referral to licensed mental health professionals is appropriate. Students develop skills in pastoral care, crisis response, spiritual assessment, communication, and referral practices, strengthening their effectiveness in churches, religious organizations, and other ministry contexts. This certificate may be completed as a standalone credential or in conjunction with a graduate degree program.