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Program Overview

This self-paced program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the counseling process and relevant topics through instruction and hands on practice. The program is structured in three levels that must be completed in sequence, with completion time varying depending on how quickly students choose to move through the material. While the average student will finish the program in four years, students have the option to fast-track in three years or extend the program if more time is needed.

Class Attendance

Students must attend classes once a week from 5:30PM-8PM. Classes include lecture, discussion, activities, and occasionally practicum.
 

Homework

All homework must be completed to advance from each level. Assignments are designed to reinforce and measure understanding of concepts learned in class,

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Internship

Students must demonstrate their ability to apply the skills and knowledge gained in class by working directly with clients while under supervision.

Progression through the program is determined by the following elements:

Program Breakdown

Level 1: Personal Ministry Training

​The first year of study, also know as Personal Ministry Training, explores the foundational topics intended to prepare students for counseling. These topics include:
 

  • What it means to be a "Good Samaritan"

  • Studying Christ as Counselor in Scripture

  • Hearing the voice of God in the counseling office

  • Exploring the fundamentals of relationships, identity, and spiritual development

  • Developing the skills of self-care and how to avoid burnout

Homework: Includes material and assignments that are designed to lead students toward internal discovery and increase knowledge of biblical and psychological principles.

Duration: This level typically takes students 1-2 years to complete (though some may take longer if needed). While the course is one year, many choose to repeat their first year because if the content-rich material. Additionally, homework for this level must be completed before advancing to level 2 and many students require a second year to submit all their assignments. 

Requirements for Advancement:

  • Regular class attendance

  • Completion of all level 1 homework requirements

Level 2: Advanced Counseling Training

Level 2 consists of two academic years of advanced training in psychological theories and the counseling process, accompanied by strong Biblical principles and the continued study of Christ as Counselor. ​

Topics include:

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  • Erickson’s Stages of Development

  • Bonding and Attachment Theories

  • Gestalt Theory

  • Navigating Complex Topics (Trauma, Abuse, Addiction, Shame, Anger, Anxiety, Grief etc).

  • Recording a Life history

  • Professional Ethics and Documentation

  • Supervised Practicum (to refine counseling skills)​

Homework: Includes material, assignments, and practicum designed to further develop knowledge and skills within these principles.

Duration: Typically, 2 years 

Requirements for Advancement:

  • Regular class attendance

  • Completion of level 2 homework requirements

  • Participation in practicum 

  • Collaborate with supervision to assess ability to perceive and apply concepts learned in class, and to determine readiness to work with clients.

Level 3: Internship

While there is no formal teaching during level 3, students may continue to attend level 2 classes to reinforce knowledge and strengthen skills. In addition to classes, students are required to attend peer supervision meetings and monthly one-on-one supervision meetings with an experienced counselor. This allows interns the opportunity to process how they’re doing, ask questions, and receive feedback.

Homework: Assignments and internship activities are designed to support the development of students as practicing counselors. Students will observe counseling sessions facilitated by seasoned counselors, complete a personal philosphy of counseling, and begin working with clients under supervision 

Duration: The internship portion of the program can take as long as needed for interning counselors to feel comfortable continuing on independently. However, it typically takes about a year to complete

Requirements for Graduation:​

  • Complete all homework from level 3 and previous levels

  • Attend peer supervision and monthly one-on-one supervision with an experienced counselor

  • Write a "Personal Philosophy of Counseling"

  • Successfully work with two clients simultaneously for at least 6 months

Fast-Track Option

While the program typically takes 4-5 years to complete, some may finish within 3 years with the fast track option. To do this, students would need to complete all Level 1 coursework within their first year, all level 2 coursework within their second year, and start their internship  halfway through the final year of teaching. A student's ability to fast track is determined by their ability to finish coursework on time and collaboration with supervision to determine readiness to start working with clients. 

NOTE: This program is designed to train and develop Certified Lay Counselors within ministry settings and does not meet clinical requirements for Licensed Mental Health Counselors within Washington State. 

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